You've probably heard that there is a planetary gap in the number of cybersecurity professionals available and the roles that need to be filled.
According to a recent cybersecurity workforce survey by the nonprofit organization ISC2, the cybersecurity workforce shortage is at an all-time high of nearly 4 million workers.
The gap between the number of workers needed and the number of available workers has widened by 12.6% year over year, driven by attrition, economic uncertainty, artificial intelligence (AI), and challenging threats. All situations are listed in the report.
If you're interested in a career in cybersecurity, now's your chance. But before that, you may be concerned about the salary.
In this article, we'll look at some of the common roles and responsibilities in the industry, and then explain what your bank account might look like depending on the position you're seeking. Also keep in mind that there are many different ways to get into the industry and you don't necessarily have to be involved in the technical side. For the purposes of this post (because technical jobs are most in demand), we'll be researching people who are considering joining cybersecurity teams. let's start.
So…what exactly is cybersecurity?
If you are considering entering the field of cybersecurity, we hope that you already understand the essentials of cybersecurity. However, cybersecurity is about protecting computers, servers, networks, systems, and data from malicious attacks. There are several aspects to it, but the goal is the same. It is to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of stored confidential information. This includes implementing multiple layers of protection across computers, networks, and programs, as well as a framework for identifying, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber threats.
To do this, cybersecurity professionals may specialize in network security, endpoint security, and protection from cybercrime, cyberattacks, and cyberterrorism. All of these play an important role in protecting your digital information and infrastructure from a wide range of cyber threats.
What is the average annual salary for a cybersecurity professional?
In the United States, average annual salaries for cybersecurity professionals vary, but typically range from $57,000 to $186,000, depending on factors such as experience, location, and specific job duties.
Are there any additional benefits or perks to a cybersecurity role?
Of course, it all depends on the company. Many cybersecurity positions come with additional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, bonuses, and professional development.
What are common entry-level jobs in cybersecurity?
An information security analyst, often referred to as a cybersecurity analyst, is a very common entry-level role in cybersecurity. These help you design, implement, monitor, and evaluate security measures to protect your organization's digital assets from cyberattacks.
Some common duties and tasks performed by information security analysts include:
- Computer network monitoring: Analysts use a variety of tools and technologies to continuously monitor computer networks for security issues and potential threats.
- Investigation of security breaches: When a breach or other cybersecurity incident occurs, analysts investigate the root cause and impact and take the necessary steps to mitigate the risk (and prevent similar risks in the future).
- Introduction of security measures: Analysts are responsible for installing and maintaining security software and tools that can protect an organization's network from online vulnerabilities.
- Risk assessment and audit: Information security analysts perform risk assessments, audits, and tests to ensure that data processing activities and security measures are working properly.
- Communication and reporting: Analysts must also communicate trends and findings to internal and external staff, submit assessment reports, and document security issues and breaches for appropriate handling.
- collaboration and training: Finally, you'll work with colleagues to install security software, provide guidance on information security management, and stay up-to-date on information technology trends and security standards.
Degrees and Experience Required for a Career in Cybersecurity
To excel in a cybersecurity role, you typically (but not always) need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, along with experience in the information security field. Additionally, these qualifications can be enhanced by professional qualifications or advanced degrees such as his MBA in Information Systems (more on this below).
Cybersecurity engineers and cybersecurity employees also require knowledge of a variety of security concepts, tools, and techniques, including firewalls, proxies, SIEM, antivirus, IDPS, and network penetration testing.
cyber security salary
We've highlighted some useful definitions and responsibilities for cybersecurity professionals. Now, let's talk about salary.
First, we should point out that the average salary for a cybersecurity career can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, certifications, and specific job duties. However, here is a breakdown of average annual salaries for various cybersecurity jobs.
- Cybersecurity Analyst:
- Average US salary in 2022: $112,000 (source)
- Average annual salary: $137,000 (source)
- Cyber Security Engineer:
- Average annual salary is $120,000 to $133,000 (source)
- Entry-level cybersecurity professionals:
- Average annual salary with less than 1 year of experience: $63,235 (source)
- Average annual salary with 1-4 years of experience: $71,942 (source)
- Intermediate level cybersecurity professional:
- Average annual salary with 5-9 years of experience: $88,596 (source)
- Senior level cybersecurity professionals:
- Average annual salary with 10+ years of experience: $102,002+ (source)
As mentioned earlier, there are several factors that can affect these numbers. For example, a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity provides a strong foundation, while advanced degrees such as a Master of Science or Master of Business Administration (MBA) can further increase your earning potential. Earning industry-recognized certifications, additional education, and professional growth can also lead to increased pay.
Highly Paying Cybersecurity Certification
Looking at the highest paying IT certifications of 2022 listed here (all include exams and various exam fees), four of the top 10 are in cybersecurity jobs. You'll see (hence the cybersecurity salaries!). these are:
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
This certification demonstrates your ability to assess risk, implement effective governance, and proactively respond to incidents. You must also have five years of professional experience to take this exam.
Estimated salary: $100,000 – $162,000 - Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
This certification includes eight domains: Security Operations, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communications and Network Security, Identity and Access Management (IAM), Security Assessment and Testing, Software Development Security, Asset Security, and Security and Risk Management. Masu.
Estimated salary: $95,000 – $147,000 - AWS Certified Security – Specialty
This certification demonstrates expertise in creating and implementing security solutions on the AWS Cloud. This certification also demonstrates his understanding of specialized data classification and his AWS data protection mechanisms. Data encryption method and his AWS mechanism to implement it. and secure internet protocols and his AWS mechanisms to implement them. AWS also recommends that you have a minimum of 5 years of experience in an IT security role, including 2 years of work experience in securing AWS workloads.
Estimated salary: $53,000 – $115,000 - Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
CISA-certified professionals serve as the link between technical, legal, and compliance teams, enabling organizations to efficiently protect privacy and manage risk cost-effectively.
Estimated Salary: Salary: $62,000 – $150,000
Differences in Cyber Security Salary by Location
As with most jobs, average cybersecurity salaries in the United States vary widely by location, with factors such as cost of living, demand for professionals, and industry standards contributing to the differences.
Below are some averages for different regions of the United States.
- West Virginia: $148,500 (source)
- New York: $124,933
- Texas: $116,850
- Washington: $117,500
- North Carolina: $110,000
- New Mexico: $100,213
- Minnesota: $98,300
- Ohio: $97,500
- California: $99,400 (source)
Labor statistics for cybersecurity professionals
As mentioned above, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to continue to grow. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that cybersecurity analyst employment will grow by 32% between 2022 and 2032.
Today, the majority of information security analysts are employed by computer companies, consulting firms, or business and financial companies. The distribution is as follows.
- Computer system design and related services: 25%
- Finance and insurance: 16%
- Information: 10%
- Company/enterprise managers: 9%
- Management, science and technology consulting services: 6%
Approximately 16,800 jobs are expected to be created over the next 10 years. A significant portion of these changes is expected to result from the need to replace people who leave the labor force, such as by moving to other occupations or retiring.
The majority of information security analysts are employed full-time, with some working more than 40 hours per week. Additionally, these professionals may be required to be available outside of normal business hours to address emergencies as needed.
Looking to the future
As of 2024, there will be approximately 500,000 cybersecurity jobs available in the United States. This field definitely offers lucrative career opportunities with competitive salaries, not to mention the ability to significantly increase your earning potential through continuing education, certifications, and related experience.
Coro is hiring people who want to start a career in cybersecurity.
*** This is a blog written by Kevin Smith – a syndicated blog from the Security Bloggers Network by Coro Cybersecurity. Read the original post: https://www.coro.net/blog/cybersecurity-salary-how-much-can-you-earn
