Cybersecurity specialists in this sub-field often have to design secure application structures, write safe code, and implement rigorous data input validation methods. All of these serve to reduce the risk of unauthorized modification or access to application resources. A report from Ponemon Institute and IBM showed the average cost of one cyberattack was $4.24 million in 2021. This figure represents the highest level of damage in the last 17 years. The rise in data breaches has increased the demand for cybersecurity experts globally. In this article, we explore cybersecurity, salaries, job outlook, and how to become a cybersecurity specialist.

Once you’ve gained a security specialist position, you can then start to think about the rest of your career development. If your career goals include obtaining a more senior role in a cyber security team, then you’ll need to deepen your knowledge and refine your skills. Over the next few years, you can continue your education, such as by studying for an online Master’s degree in cyber security or one or more of the above certificates. Given the broad scope of cybersecurity specialist work, not all employers require significant professional experience when hiring. Some organizations employ these specialists in entry-level roles, allowing them to develop on-the-job experience.

Cybersecurity is a field of immense importance in today’s technology-driven world. With the rise in cyber threats and attacks, the demand for skilled cybersecurity specialists continues to grow. As technology continues to advance, the need for skilled professionals in the field of cybersecurity has become more critical than ever before. With cyber threats and attacks constantly on the rise, organizations and individuals are seeking qualified cybersecurity specialists to protect their sensitive data and systems. The outlook for cybersecurity specialists is very positive due to the increasing reliance on technology and the growing threat of cyber attacks. As organizations continue to invest in cybersecurity to protect their data and systems, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is expected to continue to increase in the years to come.

Identity and Access Management Engineer

These advanced roles allow for career growth and specialization in the field. The IoT Academy as a reputed ed-tech training institute is imparting online / Offline training in emerging technologies such as Data Science, Machine Learning, IoT, Deep Learning, and more. We believe in making revolutionary attempt in changing the course of making online education accessible and dynamic. Cybersecurity organizations are a great way for those in the industry to keep up with current happenings, collaborate with like-minded individuals and more. Traditionally, network operations and IT professionals and teams handled core technology functions.

• With over 2 million IT certifications issued worldwide, CompTIA is dedicated to helping IT professionals lead the charge in our digitally connected world.
• With the necessary technical skills, you can apply for entry-level tech positions.
• Unlike entry-level certifications, CISSP is intended for professionals who want to move into leadership roles, manage security teams, and oversee long-term risk strategy.
• This program benefits mid-level information technology workers seeking to move up the professional ladder.
• In all professions, networking offers a reliable pathway to finding job opportunities.

Why Choose a Career in Cyber Security?

The Bureau of Labor Services (BLS) puts cybersecurity into the broader information security analysts category. According to the BLS, in 2020, information security analysts earned a sizeable income of $103,590. This figure is slightly higher than other computer professionals make at $91,250. Find a trusted, well-established security firm that offers everything from training, education, certifications, and security clearances, which can also place you in the security roles to get you the experience you need. Becoming a security specialist is a fulfilling and lucrative career choice.

Security Clearances and Certifications

If you do receive a second final offer of employment and decline or do not respond, your candidacy terminates regardless of how much time you have left on the Register. Your ranking on this register will fluctuate over time as other candidates are added to or drop off the register. Candidates who are eligible for veterans’ preference, or who demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language, may receive additional points and thus may increase the chances of receiving a final offer of employment.

Job opportunities can be found in a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology. Organizations of all sizes require cybersecurity expertise to protect sensitive data, making cybersecurity a lucrative and rapidly growing field. Application security involves using multiple defenses in an organization’s services and software to ward off potential threats and how to become a security specialist attacks.

On its Career Pathways page, CyberSeek lists Cybersecurity Specialist as an entry-level position (one that pays an average annual salary of $99,652). Refer to the salary section below to find out which companies pay particularly well for security specialist roles. If you are part of an existing IT team, make sure you’re aware of the internal recruitment process and any openings for security specialist roles. Before investing in higher education or certifications, explore salaries in cybersecurity and learn about the projected career outlook for the coming decade. That often means that continuing education is required — both in the form of formal, industry-recognized certifications —  and in the form of informal learning and tracking industry developments. Finally, holding the position of security specialist might require helping co-workers adopt new technologies and security software as it develops.

These professionals design and implement protocols for information security, manage teams of analysts, and oversee security strategies tailored to the evolving threat landscape. Many organizations encourage professional development and may promote internally, especially when staff members show initiative and leadership potential. As security threats continue to evolve, there is a growing demand for individuals who can create effective strategies, manage personnel, and respond to both physical and cybersecurity risks. Cybersecurity professionals often work in the utility sector, such as electricity, power, and water. This is because hackers can cut off utility supplies, causing the country to lose vast sums of money.

Best Enterprise Cybersecurity for 2024

• DMAC Security provides customized security protective solutions to meet our client’s needs across the Continental United States.
• By continuously expanding your knowledge, honing your skills, and staying updated with industry trends, you can carve out a successful and fulfilling career in the exciting realm of cybersecurity.
• CyberDegrees.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable.

As you gain experience and expertise, you can progress along various career paths within cybersecurity. This may involve taking on managerial roles, specializing in specific areas such as cloud security, mobile security, or data privacy, or transitioning into consulting or academia. In addition to these skills, there are several qualifications that can boost your credentials in the cybersecurity field.

According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), ransomware attacks occur about every 11 seconds in 2021, up from every 39 seconds in 2019. The security industry spans a wide range of environments—from physical security at facilities and events to the protection of digital infrastructure. Whether working in a corporate office, retail setting, or government agency, security professionals help prevent incidents, implement protective measures, and enforce compliance with internal and external regulations. Security management plays an important role in protecting people, data, and operations across industries.

As well as how to stay safe and help everyone understand the risks and avoid problems. So, if you are wondering how to become a cyber security specialist, gaining the right skills and experience is essential for success in this field. Companies hire IT and cybersecurity professionals to protect against such attacks and prevent risks to internal and external systems.

Furthermore, cybersecurity certifications validate your expertise and can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) are recognized and respected within the industry. Whether responding to an incident, managing risk, or designing secure systems, professionals must collaborate across teams and communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. That’s why strong communication and teamwork skills are considered just as essential as technical ability—particularly in fast-paced environments where coordination, clarity, and trust are vital.

It’s a good idea to become familiar with using at least one cloud program like Azure, which should translate to understanding the basics of how AWS and Google Cloud work. Companies will likely want expertise in whichever tools and software they use, so it’s better to be prepared for any scenario. Although security specialists do not always need certification, most employers prefer certified candidates. Keep in mind that certificate programs and technology bootcamps do not provide certification. Individuals must apply for certification through organizations like (ISC)², Cisco, and CompTIA.