Which Cybersecurity Careers Are Right For You?
Cyberattacks are on the rise, creating a lucrative opportunity for cybersecurity professionals. But which career path is right for you?
Learn about the different cybersecurity careers to find a role that aligns with your skills and interests. You’ll also find information about salaries, responsibilities and education requirements for these roles.
Security Analyst
The security analyst position is one of the most common positions in cybersecurity. It entails protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber threats, which can range from phishing and hacking to ransomware. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the employment rate for information security analysts will grow 32 percent through 2032.
Those seeking to become a security analyst can pursue a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or gain experience through entry-level IT positions and online bootcamps that offer cybersecurity certification programs. For those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, the security analyst role can be a step toward a more specialized career path like becoming a security engineer or a security manager.
When choosing a state or city to serve as a security analyst, keep in mind job opportunities, salary and cost of living. The best states for cybersecurity jobs include major metropolitan areas that host many large corporations and government agencies.
Network Security Engineer
The network security engineer is the backbone of cybersecurity for a business. These professionals ensure the network is secure from cyber attacks, hackers, and malware that could steal sensitive data or corrupt IT systems. They configure routers, switches, firewalls, and virtual private networks to protect against online threats.
They also monitor network performance and troubleshoot IT issues, such as when a hacker takes control of a machine to access a company’s system. In addition, they develop and implement policies for their employers’ computer systems. They are often senior members of their employer’s cybersecurity teams, supervising supporting staff such as penetration testers and security analysts.
This position requires a bachelor’s degree in IT, information systems, computer engineering, or software engineering. Entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+ and GIAC Information Security Fundamentals are essential for this role, as are industry credentials such as Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Certified Cloud Security Professional. A background in IT or computer networking helps, as well.
Security Consultant
This career path is perfect for people who love researching and finding flaws in software, or want to be a part of preventing cyber attacks. In this position, you may have to work with a lot of different teams to develop solutions.
You’ll need to be able to communicate technical concepts in a way that others can understand them. This is a crucial part of the job, especially when working with clients and other external vendors.
Depending on the type of work you do, you may also need to be familiar with various standards and compliances. These could include PCI, HIPAA, GLBA, and NIST.
To start your career as a security consultant, you can obtain an associate degree or a bachelor’s in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or another related field. You can also obtain industry-recognized certifications and gain relevant experience. This will make you more attractive to prospective employers. You can even get a master’s in cybersecurity to help you advance in your career.
Information Security Manager
Most businesses today store valuable data and information on computers. As a result, precautionary cybersecurity measures are essential. The responsibilities of installing security systems and establishing protocols, as well as responding to any breaches that occur, are all overseen by the information security manager position.
Information security managers oversee teams of cyber-security professionals and must be adept at working with all levels of employees. They should be able to communicate with staff members and set the tone for the department. This includes addressing morale issues and ensuring employees receive the proper security clearances for their job functions.
Aspiring professionals should work in an entry-level role in the cybersecurity field before applying to become an information security manager. They may want to consider earning a bachelor’s degree in cyber security from an accredited university, such as Maryville University. This online program prepares students for the technical and leadership skills needed to succeed in this career. Then, they can begin preparing for an advanced role, such as the CISO position.