Security Engineer Salaries

A Security Engineer plays a key role in protecting an organization's data and systems. They earn a competitive salary that reflects their important work. The average yearly salary for a Security Engineer is around $144,604. This means that many people in this role can expect to make a good living.

The salary for Security Engineers can vary based on experience and location. Those just starting out may earn less, while those with more experience and in certain areas can earn more. For example, a Security Engineer in a major tech hub might earn more than one in a smaller city. The range of salaries shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $200,725
   In San Francisco, tech giants like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. Professionals here work on cutting-edge security solutions. The city's vibrant tech scene provides many chances to grow.
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2. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $172,896
   San Jose, home to many tech companies, is a great place for security experts. Firms like Cisco and Intel need skilled workers. The city offers a dynamic environment for career development.
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3. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $164,198
   Seattle is known for its tech industry, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Security Engineers here focus on protecting data and systems. The city's tech culture makes it a great place to work.
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4. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $162,629
   San Diego offers a mix of tech and defense opportunities. Companies like Qualcomm and defense contractors need security experts. Working here means tackling unique security challenges.
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5. Hartford, CT
   Average Salary: $161,507
   Hartford has a strong financial sector, with companies like Aetna and Travelers. Security Engineers here protect sensitive data. The city offers a mix of tech and finance opportunities.
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6. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $154,052
   Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and tech. Companies like Disney and Warner Bros. need security professionals. Working here means dealing with diverse security needs.
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7. Austin, TX
   Average Salary: $150,536
   Austin is known for its tech boom, with companies like Dell and Apple. Security Engineers here work on innovative projects. The city's growing tech scene offers many opportunities.
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8. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $150,336
   Boston has a rich history in education and tech. Companies like IBM and Fidelity need security experts. Working here means being part of a vibrant tech community.
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9. Lansing, MI
   Average Salary: $148,518
   Lansing offers a mix of government and tech opportunities. Companies like General Motors and L-3 Communications need security professionals. Working here means contributing to both tech and government sectors.
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10. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $145,229
    Washington, DC, is a hub for government and tech. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman need security experts. Working here means protecting critical infrastructure.
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1. Netflix
   Average Salary: $447,405
   Netflix offers exciting opportunities for Security Engineers. They work to protect the streaming giant's data and services. Netflix operates globally, with major offices in Los Gatos, California, and international hubs in countries like the UK and Canada.
   

   
   

2. OpenAI
   Average Salary: $355,096
   OpenAI provides a dynamic environment for Security Engineers. They focus on securing the company's AI technologies. The company is based in San Francisco, California, and has offices in other tech hubs.
   

   
   

3. Intuit
   Average Salary: $217,158
   Intuit offers rewarding roles for Security Engineers. They protect the company's financial software. Intuit has offices in Mountain View, California, and other locations across the United States.
   

   
   

4. Snap Inc.
   Average Salary: $212,536
   Snap Inc. provides opportunities for Security Engineers to safeguard their social media platform. They have offices in Los Angeles, California, and other major cities.
   

   
   

5. Target
   Average Salary: $210,714
   Target offers roles for Security Engineers to protect their retail operations. They have numerous locations across the United States, with headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
   

   
   

6. Apple
   Average Salary: $206,651
   Apple provides exciting opportunities for Security Engineers. They work on securing Apple's products and services. Apple has offices in Cupertino, California, and other locations worldwide.
   

   
   

7. MongoDB
   Average Salary: $204,750
   MongoDB offers roles for Security Engineers to protect their database solutions. They have offices in New York, New York, and other locations across the United States.
   

   
   

8. Google
   Average Salary: $196,700
   Google provides opportunities for Security Engineers to safeguard their search engine and other services. They have offices in Mountain View, California, and other locations worldwide.
   

   
   

9. Match Group
   Average Salary: $195,000
   Match Group offers roles for Security Engineers to protect their dating platforms. They have offices in Dallas, Texas, and other locations across the United States.
   

   
   

10. GEICO
    Average Salary: $190,909
    GEICO provides opportunities for Security Engineers to protect their insurance services. They have offices in McLean, Virginia, and other locations across the United States.
    

A Security Engineer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly valued in the industry. These credentials demonstrate a deep understanding of security practices and can lead to better-paying roles.

Experience plays a crucial role in salary negotiations. Engineers with more years in the field and a proven track record of managing security incidents can command higher salaries. Networking and building relationships with other professionals in the industry can also lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and participating in online forums can help expand one's professional network. Additionally, engineers who take on leadership roles, such as managing a security team or overseeing security projects, often see a significant increase in their earnings.

Here are five factors that can help a Security Engineer earn more:

1. Certifications: Obtain specialized certifications like CISSP or CEH.
2. Experience: Accumulate more years in the field and a strong track record.
3. Networking: Build relationships with other professionals in the industry.
4. Leadership: Take on roles that involve managing a security team or projects.
5. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest security trends and technologies.