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Virtual Ciso Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lumentum

Senior Director User Services

San Jose, CA · On-site

... , CISO, HR, Facilities, and business leaders to advance digital workplace modernization and ... virtual desktops, and zero-touch provisioning. • Lead the strategy and governance for ...

Oclaro

Senior Director User Services

San Jose, CA

$187K - $267K/yr

Partner closely with CIO, CISO, HR, Facilities, and business leaders to advance digital workplace ... Drive adoption of emerging technologies including AI support agents, automated remediation, virtual ...

Opal

Forward Deployed Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $250K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You genuinely enjoy being in rooms (virtual or physical) with customers. You ask good questions ... You might be debugging a Terraform module on Monday, demoing to a CISO on Tuesday, and building a ...

Zones

Advanced Technology Executive- California

San Jose, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Engage directly with executive-level stakeholders (CIO, CTO, CISO, VP-level) * Conduct in-person and virtual meetings to advance complex sales cycles * Navigate multi-stakeholder buying environments ...

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All JobsCiso JobsVirtual Ciso JobsVirtual Ciso Jobs in California

Virtual Ciso information

See California salary details

$11

$24

$33

How much do virtual ciso jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual ciso in California is $24.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can Virtual Ciso work remotely?

Yes, Virtual Ciso roles are often performed remotely, as they involve overseeing cybersecurity strategies and policies from a distance. Many organizations hire virtual CISOs to provide expertise without requiring physical presence, and remote work tools like secure communication platforms are commonly used. However, some positions may require occasional on-site visits or meetings depending on the company's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual CISO, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Virtual CISO, you need deep expertise in information security frameworks, risk management, and regulatory compliance, typically backed by a degree in cybersecurity or IT and certifications like CISSP or CISM. Familiarity with security assessment tools, SIEM systems, and governance platforms is essential. Outstanding communication, leadership, and strategic thinking set top performers apart in this remote advisory role. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively protect organizations, align security initiatives with business goals, and build trust with stakeholders.

What is a virtual CISO?

A Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (Virtual CISO or vCISO) is an experienced cybersecurity professional who provides leadership and strategic guidance on information security, but works for an organization on a part-time, contract, or as-needed basis. This allows companies to benefit from high-level security expertise without the cost of hiring a full-time executive. vCISOs help businesses assess risks, develop security policies, ensure regulatory compliance, and respond to cybersecurity incidents. They are particularly valuable for small to mid-sized organizations that may not have the resources for a dedicated CISO.

How much does a virtual CISO make?

A virtual CISO typically earns between $100,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and the scope of responsibilities. Compensation may also include benefits such as flexible schedules, certifications like CISSP, and remote work options.

How does a virtual CISO typically collaborate with internal IT teams and executive leadership?

A Virtual CISO (vCISO) works closely with internal IT staff to assess current security protocols, identify gaps, and implement best practices. They also serve as a bridge between technical teams and executive leadership by translating complex security risks into clear business terms and providing strategic recommendations. Regular meetings, clear reporting structures, and tailored security training sessions are common ways vCISOs ensure that both technical and non-technical stakeholders are aligned on cybersecurity priorities. This collaborative approach helps organizations integrate security into business decisions and maintain regulatory compliance.

What does a virtual CISO do?

A virtual chief information security officer (vCISO) is a position that allows you to work from home while handling the responsibilities of data organization and protection. In this role, you manage a company’s cybersecurity and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Your duties include reviewing the strategy and business design of an organization, performing threat analysis, providing risk assessment and management, and testing company systems. You may also forecast future security challenges, collaborate with engineering teams, identify and treat any breaches or incidents within the system, and provide service for end-users. You may work in a staff role for a company or contract with clients in a freelance position.

What is the difference between Virtual Ciso vs Security Analyst?

AspectVirtual CisoSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCISSP, CISM, CISACompTIA Security+, CISSP (preferred), GIAC
Work EnvironmentStrategic, executive-level, remote or onsiteOperational, technical, primarily onsite or remote
Employer & Industry UsageOrganizations seeking cybersecurity leadershipOrganizations monitoring security threats and incidents

The Virtual Ciso focuses on strategic cybersecurity leadership, policy development, and risk management at an executive level. In contrast, a Security Analyst handles technical security monitoring, threat detection, and incident response. While both roles require cybersecurity certifications, the Virtual Ciso operates at a higher strategic level, often working remotely for multiple clients or organizations, whereas Security Analysts are more hands-on with daily security operations.

More about Virtual Ciso jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Ciso jobs in California? The most popular types of Ciso jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Virtual Ciso jobs in California? For Virtual Ciso jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Ciso jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Ciso jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Virtual Ciso jobs? Cities in California with the most Virtual Ciso job openings:
Virtual Ciso jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Ciso job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,084 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

NextCISO Virtual BISO/vCISO Program Applicant (Remote)

The Next CISO Apprenticeship Program

San Andreas, CA

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Having representation at the management and executive levels is key to improving diversity, equity and inclusion in cybersecurity. Currently, only 7% of minorities in cybersecurity hold director (or above) positions. One of the struggles that people have in advancing into leadership roles is the lack of opportunity to train into their new roles. 


The Next CISO programs are tuition-free and designed to prepare students for their desired future roles by giving them the practical training necessary. The program runs for six months. We do not have an ETA yet on when the next program starts, but are taking applications. Please attach your resume and a letter explaining why you are interested in the program and why you think you make a good candidate. A member of our team will reach out to you for next steps. 


As GRCIE's mission is to diversify the next generation GRC workforce, we encourage students that come from underrepresented groups including racially diverse, gender diversity, LGBT+ community, socioeconomically disadvantaged, people with disabilities, and veterans to apply.


Qualifications

  • At least 3 years of solid GRC or related cybersecurity experience
  • Self-motivated individuals with passion and perseverance
  • The ability to take initiative and work as part of a team and across a range of partners
  • An eagerness to enhance your leadership skills
  • Entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to roll up sleeves to get the job done
  • Passion for solving problems (large and small.)
  • Attention to detail
  • Willingness to dedicate the next six months to learning


Our apprentices are exposed to client work within the first 60 days of starting the NextCISO Academy. 


The Virtual Business Information Security Officer (BISO) program is for middle managers looking to grow their careers into director and VP level roles. The Virtual BISOs will leverage their team management training to manage a team of approximately 5 junior security analysts for a program build-out for a single client over 6 months.


The Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) program is for senior directors looking to move into executive leadership. The Virtual CISO gets the opportunity to leverage their executive training in the NextCISO school to manage a 21+ person organization - including the budget and program build-out for 4 clients during a 6-month apprenticeship.


GRCIE is committed to providing any necessary accommodations for individuals with disabilities within our application and interview process. To request an accommodation due to a disability, please inform one of our team members. 


GRCIE provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

Employment Type: PART_TIME

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