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Senior Cyber Security Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

Senior Cyber Security Engineer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$39.3K

$119.2K

$174.6K

How much do senior cyber security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior cyber security engineer in Decatur, IL is $119,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,900.00 and $137,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior cyber security engineer do?

A Senior Cyber Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing advanced security measures to protect an organization's computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. They analyze security risks, develop strategies to address vulnerabilities, and respond to security incidents. Additionally, they often lead security projects, mentor junior team members, and ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.

What is the difference between Senior Cyber Security Engineer vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectSenior Cyber Security EngineerCyber Security Analyst
Certifications CISSP, CEH, CISACompTIA Security+, GIAC, CISSP (preferred)
Work EnvironmentDesigning security systems, implementing security measures, leading security projectsMonitoring security alerts, analyzing threats, conducting vulnerability assessments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, finance, government agencies, large enterprisesIT departments, security firms, government agencies

Senior Cyber Security Engineers focus on designing and implementing security infrastructure, while Cyber Security Analysts primarily monitor and analyze security threats. Both roles require relevant certifications and are vital in protecting organizational assets, but they differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior cyber security engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Cyber Security Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of security protocols, risk assessment, network defense, and a relevant degree or certifications such as CISSP or CEH. Expertise with security information and event management (SIEM) systems, penetration testing tools, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you identify threats and collaborate with diverse teams. These capabilities are crucial for protecting organizational assets and ensuring resilience against evolving cyber threats.

What are some common challenges senior cyber security engineers face when implementing new security protocols within an organization?

Senior Cyber Security Engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from end-users, balancing robust security measures with user convenience, and ensuring compatibility with existing systems. They must also stay ahead of evolving threats while working within budget constraints and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and cross-department collaboration are key to successfully implementing new protocols and fostering a strong security culture across the organization.
What job categories do people searching Senior Cyber Security Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Cyber Security Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Senior Cyber Security Engineer jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Senior Cyber Security Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Cyber Security Engineer job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $119,199 per year, or $57.3 per hour.

Senior Endpoint Engineer (R&D Specialist)

A1FED Inc

Texas, IL โ€ข Hybrid

$94K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Location: DHA locations in and around San Antonio, TX

Clearance Required: Public Trust (ADP/IT-II) or Tier 3 Investigation (NACLC) 


The Senior Endpoint Engineer/R&D Specialist is responsible for architecting, developing, and sustaining endpoint management and delivery solutions that meet DoD and DHA operational and security requirements. This includes designing compliant application packaging, security configurations, software deployments, and mobile device solutions across the hybrid DHA ecosystem. The engineer will also lead Tier 3/4 support efforts, drive endpoint automation and modernization initiatives, and provide technical leadership in support of RMF and Zero Trust alignment.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


Application Integration & Enterprise Management:

  • Engineer and deploy endpoint management solutions (MECM, Intune, etc.) for both virtual and physical environments.
  • Package, test, and configure baseline applications and images for DHA endpoints.
  • Architect endpoint delivery frameworks to support centralized provisioning, patching, monitoring, and sustainment of services across hybrid (on-prem/cloud/SaaS) environments.
  • Engineer migration strategies from MECM to Intune and develop modern endpoint reporting capabilities.

Endpoint & Identity Security:

  • Validate endpoint compliance with DISA STIGs, DoDI 8510.01 (RMF), and NIST cybersecurity standards.
  • Conduct risk assessments and apply IA controls across all application and OS lifecycle stages.
  • Engineer and maintain endpoint configurations supporting Zero Trust, encryption, data-at-rest (DAR), and continuous monitoring.
  • Maintain artifacts in eMASS, including POA&Ms, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring documentation.

Desktop & Endpoint Engineering:

  • Build and maintain desktop OS images and standard software configurations for enterprise deployment.
  • Engineer solutions supporting task sequences, group policies, and profile/data management.
  • Modernize legacy configurations and support cloud-managed endpoints for improved user experience and performance.
  • Validate application compatibility and implement endpoint enhancements using industry best practices.

Mobile Engineering:

  • Design and implement mobile device provisioning, OS/firmware upgrades, and security configurations.
  • Develop transition plans for migrating MDM platforms while preserving user experience and enterprise controls.

Software Design & System Integration:

  • Research and develop system-level software solutions, including embedded systems and distribution frameworks.
  • Formulate operational specs and conduct in-depth requirement analyses to improve endpoint architectures.

Application Packaging & Automation:

  • Engineer, script, and deliver application packages using enterprise deployment tools.
  • Test application delivery using hypervisors and simulate endpoint software combinations.
  • Ensure compliance with DISA/NIST STIGs in application packaging and configuration management.
  • Maintain application baselines and automate patching and updates.

Preferred Tools & Technologies:

  • Microsoft MECM (SCCM), Intune, MDT, PowerShell
  • Windows Server OS, Windows 10/11
  • Hyper-V, Azure, Entra ID, GPO
  • ActivClient, eMASS, DISA STIG Viewer
  • SCAP Compliance Checker, NIST 800-series
  • Application packaging tools (AdminStudio, WiseScript, etc.)


Education & Certification Requirements (per DoD 8140 Qualification Matrices)

1) Microsoft Certified: Cyber Security Architect Expert or Azure Solutions Architect Expert

2) Any of the following...

  • Academic Education: Bachelor's degree in information technology, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline.
  • OR Baseline: GCLD or CCE or CASP+ or CEH or GLSC or CISSP


Employment Type: FULL_TIME