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Security Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is ...

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is ...

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is ...

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is ...

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is ...

Security Software Engineer II Location: Austin. Other EA locations may be considered. On-Site/Hybrid. Requisition Type: Temporary Full-Time (TFT) - 6 Months Job Requisition: Electronic Arts Inc. is a ...

We are seeking a Security Software Engineer to build and harden software systems supporting DoD programs operating under CMMC/NIST 800-171/FedRAMP compliance requirements. You will embed security ...

Security Software Engineer Costa Mesa, California, United States Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced ...

The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking applicants for the role of AI Security Software Engineer. Established in response to the Morris worm, CERT has been a leader ...

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Security Software Engineer information

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$23K

$139.6K

$174.5K

How much do security software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for security software engineer in the United States is $139,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Security Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Security Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, secure coding practices, and cybersecurity principles, often supported by a degree in a related field or relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools such as static and dynamic code analyzers, penetration testing suites, and secure development lifecycle frameworks is essential. Standout professionals demonstrate critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills to identify vulnerabilities and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are vital for building resilient software systems and protecting organizations from evolving security threats.

How does a Security Software Engineer typically collaborate with other teams during the software development lifecycle?

Security Software Engineers work closely with development, operations, and quality assurance teams to integrate security best practices throughout the software development lifecycle. They often participate in code reviews, threat modeling sessions, and incident response planning to ensure that security is considered at every stage. Regular communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams help identify potential vulnerabilities early and promote a security-first culture across the organization. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the final product but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional growth.

What are Security Software Engineers?

Security Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software solutions focused on maintaining and enhancing the security of computer systems, applications, and networks. They identify potential security vulnerabilities, create safeguards, and ensure that software products comply with security standards and best practices. Their responsibilities often include code reviews, penetration testing, and collaborating with other developers and IT staff to address security risks throughout the software development lifecycle.

What is the difference between Security Software Engineer vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity Software EngineerSecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, CEH)Bachelor's in IT, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, Security+)
Work EnvironmentDevelops security tools, software, and systemsMonitors security alerts, analyzes threats, and responds to incidents
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, large enterprisesFinancial institutions, government agencies, corporations

Security Software Engineers focus on designing and developing security software and tools, while Security Analysts monitor and respond to security threats. Both roles require cybersecurity certifications and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Security Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Security Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Security Software Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Security Software Engineer jobs? The top employers for Security Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Security Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Security Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Security Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,599 per year, or $67.1 per hour.
Security Software Engineer (Starshield)

Security Software Engineer (Starshield)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARSHIELD)
Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. The Starshield team is building highly reliable in-space mesh networks, designing secure systems to guarantee access to space, designing next-gen communication and sensing software, and more.
As a Security Software Engineer you will influence the security of software across our product lines. We are looking for people with a track record of shipping reliable software and who have a broad understanding of the security design of today's Internet, including the cryptographic primitives involved. You see the big picture, prioritize accordingly, and are comfortable with working at different levels of abstraction. Ideally, you have notable skills in one or more of the following:
  • Software engineering
  • Applied cryptography
  • Network security
  • Operating system security
  • Secure/authenticated boot
  • Incident response and adversary detection
  • Vulnerability research

Being flexible, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams are paramount to success. If you are passionate about building quality products, love the challenges of outsmarting adversaries, and want to make an impact on an inter-planetary scale, then you will fit right in.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and build security infrastructure for Starshield, including cryptographic services and other security-critical services
  • Develop security features for Starshield systems, including our router, dish, gateways, and satellites
  • Design security into factory processes and provide network services in support of this
  • Maintain existing production systems and improve security posture via both direct implementation and recommendations to other teams
  • Build prototypes and help identify, design, and test security improvements

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree
  • Experience with one or more software development languages (i.e. Python, C++, Golang)
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other enterprise/large-scale infrastructure

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience contributing security improvements to complex systems
  • Experience working with special purpose security hardware such as trusted platform modules (TPMs) and hardware security modules (HSMs)
  • Fundamental understanding of network protocols; including the TCP/IP stack as well as UDP based protocols
  • Experienced in navigating large, complex, interactive systems
  • Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team
  • Demonstrated ability to deal with ambiguity and to learn new technologies quickly
  • Advanced degree in a technical or engineering discipline
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Security Software Engineer/Level I: $130,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year
Security Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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