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Senior Security Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Core One

Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

The Senior Security Engineer serves as the primary cybersecurity technical authority supporting system engineering, cloud architecture, DevSecOps pipelines, compliance initiatives, and operational ...

Aledade

Senior Security Engineer II (IAM)

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Security Engineer II for Identity and Access Management (IAM) at Aledade, you will play a central role in enhancing the security posture of our enterprise, cloud-native environments, and ...

Aledade

Senior Security Engineer II (IAM)

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Security Engineer II for Identity and Access Management (IAM) at Aledade, you will play a central role in enhancing the security posture of our enterprise, cloud-native environments, and ...

Core One

Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

The Senior Security Engineer serves as the primary cybersecurity technical authority supporting system engineering, cloud architecture, DevSecOps pipelines, compliance initiatives, and operational ...

Aledade

Senior Security Engineer II (IAM)

Bethesda, MD · Remote

$117K - $160K/yr

As a Senior Security Engineer II for Identity and Access Management (IAM) at Aledade, you will play a central role in enhancing the security posture of our enterprise, cloud-native environments, and ...

ECS

Endpoint Security Engineer - Senior

Washington, DC · On-site

$126K - $173K/yr

Join Everforth ECS Federal as a senior endpoint security engineer protecting mission-critical federal environments. You will lead secure endpoint and data transfer controls supporting national ...

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Senior Security Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$76.5K

$142.7K

$194K

How much do senior security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior security engineer in Reston, VA is $142,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,100.00 and $163,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Security Engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cybersecurity tools can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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

To thrive as a Senior Security Engineer, you need deep expertise in network security, risk assessment, incident response, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with security tools such as SIEM platforms, firewalls, IDS/IPS, and certifications like CISSP or CEH are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and leadership abilities help you excel in complex security environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial to safeguard organizational assets and maintain robust defense against evolving cyber threats.

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

AspectSenior Security EngineerSecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsCertifications like CISSP, CISA, CEH; Bachelor's or Master's in Cybersecurity or related fieldsCertifications like CompTIA Security+, GIAC Security Essentials; Bachelor's in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning security systems, implementing security measures, leading security projectsMonitoring security alerts, analyzing threats, conducting security assessments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech companies, finance, healthcare for security infrastructure rolesCommon in various industries for threat detection and incident response

The main difference is that Senior Security Engineers focus on designing and implementing security solutions, while Security Analysts primarily monitor and analyze security threats. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does a senior security engineer do?

A senior security engineer designs, implements, and manages security measures to protect an organization’s information systems and networks. They analyze vulnerabilities, respond to security incidents, and often lead security projects, requiring knowledge of tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security frameworks. They typically hold certifications such as CISSP or CISM and work closely with IT teams to ensure compliance and risk mitigation.

How does a Senior Security Engineer typically collaborate with other departments to enhance organizational security?

Senior Security Engineers frequently work cross-functionally, partnering with IT, software development, and compliance teams to implement security best practices and respond to incidents. They play a key role in conducting security reviews, advising on secure design, and leading incident response efforts. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as these engineers often translate technical risks into business terms and provide guidance during audits or vulnerability assessments. This collaborative approach helps ensure comprehensive protection across all organizational assets.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Senior security engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in areas like threat hunting or security architecture can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost living areas or large organizations. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership roles, and strategic responsibilities.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Senior security engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in areas like cloud security or penetration testing can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually. Salary levels depend on factors such as location, industry, company size, and individual skills, with top-tier professionals often reaching or exceeding this figure.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Senior Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Security Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Security Engineer job openings:
Senior Security Engineer jobs near you
Security Engineer

Security Engineer

Core One

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Join our team at Core One! Our mission is to be at the forefront of devising analytical, operational and technical solutions to our Nation's most complex national security challenges. In order to achieve our mission, Core One values people first! We are committed to recruiting, nurturing, and retaining top talent! We offer a competitive total compensation package that sets us apart from our competition. Core One is a team-oriented, dynamic, and growing company that values exceptional performance!
Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI with Polygraph
Summary
We are seeking a Senior Security Engineer to support cybersecurity operations, compliance, and risk management for FedRAMP-authorized and Intelligence Community (IC) systems. This role is responsible for ensuring systems meet stringent federal security requirements while enabling secure, scalable, and compliant cloud and on-premises solutions.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in NIST frameworks, FedRAMP authorization processes, continuous monitoring (ConMon), cloud security, incident response, and ATO lifecycle management, along with the ability to operate effectively within classified and high-security environments.
The Senior Security Engineer serves as the primary cybersecurity technical authority supporting system engineering, cloud architecture, DevSecOps pipelines, compliance initiatives, and operational security monitoring.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and support FedRAMP Moderate/High and IC ATO authorization efforts, ensuring compliance with NIST RMF, NIST 800-53, NIST 800-37, FedRAMP, and ICD 503 requirements.
  • Conduct risk assessments, security control assessments, gap analyses, and security architecture reviews to identify and mitigate cybersecurity risks.
  • Manage the full Risk Management Framework (RMF) lifecycle, including system categorization, control selection, implementation, assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring.
  • Develop and maintain security documentation such as SSPs, SARs, POA&Ms, and control traceability artifacts, while tracking remediation activities.
  • Execute Continuous Monitoring (ConMon) programs through vulnerability assessments, compliance reviews, security control validation, and reporting.
  • Lead vulnerability management activities using tools such as Nessus, ACAS, SCAP, and STIG Viewer, validating remediation and coordinating risk mitigation efforts.
  • Support Security Operations and Incident Response, including threat monitoring, alert analysis, incident investigations, root cause analysis, and coordination with SOCs and government stakeholders.
  • Design and assess security controls for AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, and other government cloud environments, implementing IAM, encryption, logging, and least-privilege access controls.
  • Integrate security into DevSecOps and CI/CD pipelines through automated security testing, vulnerability scanning, compliance validation, and Infrastructure-as-Code security practices.
  • Support audits and assessments, including 3PAO reviews, FedRAMP assessments, agency ATO reviews, and IG audits, while preparing evidence and coordinating with auditors and assessors.
  • Administer and utilize governance, compliance, monitoring, and vulnerability management tools such as ServiceNow GRC, Splunk, and Azure.
  • Collaborate with developers, engineers, cloud architects, ISSOs/ISSMs, compliance teams, and government stakeholders to provide cybersecurity guidance throughout system development and operations.
  • Contribute to security governance, policy development, cybersecurity program maturity, and organizational security culture, while mentoring junior staff and promoting risk-informed decision-making.

Required Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI with Polygraph
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Cybersecurity, IT, or related field and 5+ years' experience in Cybersecurity in federal or IC environments
  • OR Masters and 3+ years of experience in Cybersecurity in federal or IC environments
  • Strong Knowledge of NIST RMF (800-37), NIST 800-53 controls, and FedRAMP requirements
  • At least one of the following certifications: CISM or CISA, CompTIA Security+ (baseline), Certified Authorization Professional (CAP), CCSP (cloud security)
  • Experience in the following tools: NIST 800-53, RMF, FedRAMP, ICD 503, ServiceNow GRC, Splunk, AWS GovCloud, Azure

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with cloud-native security tools
  • Knowledge of Zero Trust Architecture
  • Experience with cross-domain solutions
  • Familiarity with DevSecOps pipelines in regulated environments

Core One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
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About Core One

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Sterling, VA, US

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