Principal Security Engineer, Data Security

Role Overview

• Lead the design and execution of Upstart’s data security program, from early foundations through mature, scalable systems
• Architect and build software solutions (APIs, services, and internal tools) that enable effective data protection and governance
• Partner closely with Engineering, Analytics, Product, Legal, Risk, HR, and other stakeholders to secure sensitive data across diverse domains
• Establish clear goals, success metrics, and accountability for data security initiatives
• Drive adoption of least-privilege access models and modern data protection patterns across the organization
• Mentor engineers and security practitioners, fostering strong technical standards and a culture of ownership
• Continuously improve systems by learning from real-world signals such as false positives, operational feedback, and evolving threats

Requirements

• Extensive experience across enterprise and operational security domains, with deep focus on Data Security and Identity & Access Management
• Experience owning or leading a Data Security, DLP (Data Loss Prevention), or DSPM (Data Security Posture Management) initiatives
• Proven experience leading security programs that span multiple teams and functions
• Strong software engineering background, with the ability to design and build production-quality systems (e.g., APIs, services, or internal web applications)
• Experience launching new security capabilities or programs from 0 to 1 in complex environments
• Deep understanding of least-privilege principles and practical experience applying them at scale
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence senior technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, make sound tradeoffs, and independently drive meaningful change.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation, including base pay, bonus opportunities, and annual equity grants that vest quarterly
• Generous 401(k) plan with Upstart matching $2 for every $1 contributed, up to $15,000 per year
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with discounted stock purchase options for eligible employees
• Affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage, with multiple plan options
• Upstart covers 90% to 100% of the cost depending on the plans you choose
• Health Savings Account contributions from Upstart for eligible plans
• Income protection benefits, including company-paid Basic Life, AD&D, and Short
• and Long-Term Disability coverage, with options to purchase supplemental coverage
• Paid time off, sick and safe time, and company holidays
• Paid family and parental leave to support caregiving and major life moments
• Family-centered benefits through Carrot and Cleo, supporting fertility, parenthood, and caregiving
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering mental health support and life-centered resources
• Financial wellness resources, including access to financial planning tools and a financial concierge service
• Annual wellness allowance to support your physical and emotional well-being and personal development, based on what matters most to you
• Annual productivity allowance to invest in relevant tools and resources you need to do your best work, no matter where you work from
• Connection and community through team events and onsites, all-company updates, and employee resource groups (ERGs)
• Onsite perks, including catered lunches and fully stocked micro-kitchens when working from one of our four offices, located in the Bay Area, Austin, Columbus, and New York City (opening Summer 2026!).