Salary for Entry-level / Junior Security Software Engineer in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average entry-level / junior Security Software Engineer salary lies between USD 120,000 and USD 280,000 in the United States. It represents the overall compensation/gross salary amount for the working year (before deductions like social security, taxes and other contributions), not including equity/stock options or similar benefits.

Region represents the primary country of residence of an employee during the year (or residence for tax purposes). All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Dec. 22, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Entry-level / Junior Security Software Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with entry-level / junior Security Software Engineer job listings are Python, Cloud and Computer Science. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Python | 11 jobs Cloud | 11 jobs Computer Science | 10 jobs Agile | 7 jobs APIs | 6 jobs SQS | 5 jobs DynamoDB | 5 jobs Automation | 5 jobs C | 5 jobs Kubernetes | 5 jobs Redis | 5 jobs Golang | 5 jobs Privacy | 5 jobs Terraform | 5 jobs PostgreSQL | 5 jobs Kafka | 5 jobs RDBMS | 5 jobs Linux | 4 jobs AWS | 3 jobs Java | 3 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Entry-level / Junior Security Software Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with entry-level / junior Security Software Engineer job listings are Equity / stock options, Career development and Startup environment. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Equity / stock options | 7 jobs Career development | 5 jobs Startup environment | 5 jobs Flex hours | 4 jobs Health care | 4 jobs Medical leave | 4 jobs 401(k) matching | 2 jobs Parental leave | 2 jobs Flex vacation | 2 jobs Competitive pay | 2 jobs Transparency | 1 jobs Conferences | 1 jobs Insurance | 1 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 1 jobs Flexible spending account | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for an entry-level or junior security software engineer in the United States typically consists of a base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The base salary is the fixed component and usually makes up the majority of the total compensation package. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company’s policies and your individual performance. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies, and benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The composition can vary by region, with tech hubs like Silicon Valley offering higher base salaries and stock options, while other regions might offer more competitive bonuses. Industry also plays a role; for instance, financial services and tech companies often provide higher compensation packages compared to non-profit or government sectors. Company size can influence the package as well, with larger companies typically offering more comprehensive benefits and bonuses.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from an entry-level position, consider gaining specialized skills and certifications that are in high demand. Pursuing advanced certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can make you more valuable to employers. Additionally, gaining experience in niche areas like cloud security, penetration testing, or threat intelligence can set you apart. Networking within the industry and seeking mentorship can also provide opportunities for advancement. Consider pursuing further education, such as a master's degree in cybersecurity, which can open doors to higher-level positions. Demonstrating leadership skills and taking on more responsibilities can also lead to promotions and salary increases.

Educational Requirements

Most entry-level security software engineer positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Some employers may accept candidates with equivalent experience or certifications in lieu of a degree. A strong foundation in programming, networking, and systems administration is often necessary. Coursework or projects related to cybersecurity, such as ethical hacking, cryptography, and network security, can be particularly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications for a security software engineer role. Some common and helpful certifications include:

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential security concepts and practices.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): An advanced certification that demonstrates a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles.
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Focuses on managing and governing information security programs.
• Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate: Provides skills in security operations and monitoring.

Experience Requirements

For an entry-level position, employers typically look for candidates with some practical experience, which can be gained through internships, co-op programs, or relevant projects. Experience with programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, as well as familiarity with operating systems like Linux and Windows, is often required. Hands-on experience with security tools and technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners, is also beneficial. While direct work experience in cybersecurity may not be mandatory, demonstrating a strong interest and foundational skills in the field is crucial.

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