As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Security Engineer in Costa Mesa, CA is $97,502 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $47.
However, a Security Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Security Engineer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Security Engineer's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Security ... Level Security Engineer | $96,645 |
| Informati... Level Security Engineer | $96,382 |
| Informati... Level Security Engineer | $146,618 |
| Informati... Level Security Engineer | $161,712 |
| Informati... Level Security Engineer | $204,510 |
What Am I Worth?
For Security Engineer roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Internet and Insurance sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Security Engineer positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Security Engineer as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet | $126,753 | $61.0 | 30% |
| Insurance | $121,878 | $59.0 | 25% |
| Biotechnology | $117,003 | $56.0 | 20% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $117,003 | $56.0 | 20% |
| Healthcare | $112,128 | $54.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Security Engineer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Security Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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