Cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing careers in America. It offers lucrative salaries with experienced professionals often earning more than $100,000.
The industry also offers a wide range of specializations that focus on tackling specific security threats. Those who already have experience in other areas like software development can usually leverage those skills to enter this field.
Security Analyst
With cyber threats on the rise, companies need professionals to protect them from hackers. This is why cybersecurity jobs are so popular today and salaries are well above the national average.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for a cyber security analyst is $63,235. However, this can vary depending on where you work and the skills you have.
Cybersecurity professionals are tasked with monitoring computer infrastructure, information networks and databases to ensure that they’re protected from cyber attacks. They may also be responsible for implementing policies and advocating for cybersecurity practices throughout the company. This can include writing training documents for non-technical colleagues.
Regardless of the role, all cyber security professionals need to have a solid understanding of the technology and the ways in which it works. They’ll need to be able to identify and mitigate security issues, understand how the systems operate, and have a strong programming background.
A good way to get started in this career is by gaining some certifications. Various courses are available online, such as the ones offered by Simplilearn.
It’s important to stay in a cybersecurity job for a while so that you can develop the right amount of experience and expertise. From there, you can move up the ladder. For example, if you want to move into strategy and engineering, you could try a career in security architecture or security engineering. Or, if you want to take a law enforcement approach, then you might be better suited for digital forensics.
Security Engineer
Cybersecurity jobs offer the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and help prevent cyber attacks from happening. They can be challenging and fast-paced, but also rewarding as you can make a difference in the world.
There are many different types of cybersecurity careers to choose from. Some require programming skills, while others do not. However, some jobs in cybersecurity are better for people who have experience in other areas of IT, such as software development or IT infrastructure management. Some positions may require a minimum of two years of relevant experience.
Security engineers are responsible for developing and implementing high-tech solutions to protect an organization’s computer systems and data from cyber threats. They have a strong understanding of hacker tactics and are well-versed in a variety of security tools. They are also responsible for instituting security protocols and maintaining network systems.
Security engineers are often required to have a flexible schedule, as they might be called upon when there is a crisis or a cyber-attack. They must also stay up-to-date on the latest cyber attacks and defenses to effectively counter them. Cybersecurity engineers can find jobs with a variety of companies and organizations, including the federal government. The Department of Energy and the FAA are two examples of agencies that frequently hire security engineers. There are also a number of cybersecurity engineering positions available on USAJOBS, which is a one-stop shop for government jobs.
Security Architect
Taking the next step up the career ladder, security architects develop and implement cyber security solutions for their organizations. This role involves assessing an organization’s computer systems and networks for weaknesses, as well as performing penetration tests and risk analyses. This job also includes assessing firewalls, routers, and virtual private networks to ensure that they are effective at protecting the organization from cyberattacks.
In this job, professionals work closely with business stakeholders to identify the security implications of a particular business transformation or project. They also work with senior management and IT professionals to integrate security into the organization’s overall strategy. Security architects may work independently or as part of a team.
To become a security architect, professionals need a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, information technology, or computer science. Some universities also offer graduate degrees in these fields that can help professionals advance in the field. Professionals can also earn additional certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge of the latest developments in cybersecurity.
As the number of cyberattacks and data breaches continues to rise, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals will continue to grow. There is currently an exceptionally low unemployment rate in the industry, making it easy for skilled workers to find a position. With an abundance of opportunities in the field, it’s no wonder that more people are choosing to pursue careers in cybersecurity.
Security Manager
Many types of cyber security jobs exist and they require a variety of skills and certifications. These include computer security incident responder, penetration tester and cybersecurity manager. A security manager is an advanced level position that supervises other information security professionals.
A security manager oversees a company’s information systems, monitors cyber attacks and prepares contingency plans in the event of a breach. In addition, managers may research software options and computer hardware to determine what will best protect an organization’s data. They also manage the allocation of resources and often have an executive role.
For example, they might need to approve the purchase of a new software tool. Additionally, they must continually monitor the latest threats and hacks to their employer’s databases. A penetration tester is a highly skilled cybersecurity professional who analyzes code to find vulnerabilities before a hacker does.
A person with a master’s degree in information security or a bachelor’s degree in computer science or IT can find employment in this field. In the case of the more entry-level positions, it is possible to get a foot in the door with an associate’s degree in cyber security or participation in a graduate cybersecurity program. Many of these programs offer internship opportunities, which can lead to full-time employment once a student graduates. However, many individuals choose to go the freelancing route and gain experience before seeking out a formal position in this industry.
