How much do cybersecurity contractors make?

Cybersecurity contracting offers higher hourly rates than full-time employment but without benefits, paid time off, or employer retirement contributions. SOC Analyst contractors typically bill $40 to $80 per hour through staffing agencies. Security Engineers command $80 to $150 per hour. Senior Security Architects bill $125 to $200 per hour. These rates vary significantly by region, with Washington D.C., New York, and San Francisco commanding the highest rates.

Government cybersecurity contractors earn premiums for security clearances. According to ClearanceJobs (2024), TS/SCI clearance holders earn 20-40% more than their non-cleared counterparts. Defense contractor cybersecurity positions through firms like Booz Allen Hamilton, Leidos, and SAIC typically pay $90,000 to $180,000 depending on role and clearance level. Cleared cybersecurity contractors in the D.C. metro area can earn $150,000 to $250,000.

Contractor math: a contractor billing $100/hour for 2,000 hours annually generates $200,000 gross revenue. After self-employment taxes (approximately 15.3%), health insurance ($5,000 to $15,000/year), retirement contributions, and business expenses, net income is roughly equivalent to a $140,000 to $160,000 salaried position. The trade-off is flexibility, variety of projects, and potentially higher earnings.

Contract-to-hire arrangements are common in cybersecurity. Many organizations use contracting as an extended evaluation period. This is a valid entry strategy for career changers who struggle to land full-time positions immediately. Staffing agencies that specialize in cybersecurity contracting include Robert Half Technology, TEKsystems, and CyberCoders.