Are you hoping to start a career in the cybersecurity field?
There’s no better time than now to start a career in cybersecurity. According to the BLS, information security analysts’ job outlook is expected to grow by a whopping 31 percent through 2029. In addition, total employment is projected to grow by an average of 3.7 percent through 2029.
Cybersecurity jobs are growing at a rate ten times faster than the national average! So what are the different types of cybersecurity jobs? Which job matches the kind of work you want to do?
Read on to learn everything you need to know about the most common types of cybersecurity jobs. Remember, most jobs require high-level security clearance and may require a bachelor’s degree. You must study the level of education and skills needed, as the field is changing rapidly! The more certifications you have, the better your opportunity for entry-level employment. Here are some possible job opportunities. This list is not all-inclusive but read on to get a glimpse of the type of jobs available for trained and educated individuals.
1. Information Security Analyst/Assistant
Many computer science graduates go on to work as an information security analyst.
As an information security analyst, you’ll check computer networks for security issues. You’ll also investigate any security breaches that come your way. In this role, you’ll also be responsible for the following:
- Researching the latest IT trends
- Helping users learn about new security products and procedures
- Developing security standards and best practices for your organization
- Creating reports to document security breaches
- Conducting penetration testing
- Recommending ways to enhance security to your organization
Most information security analysts work for consulting firms, computer companies, or finance companies. Information security analysts need a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Or, some companies will hire entry-level positions if you have several certifications in addition to an associate’s degree in cybersecurity.
2. IT Technician
If you’re looking for an entry-level job, consider working as an IT technician. As an IT technician, you’ll be responsible for installing software and hardware. You’ll also be responsible for managing computer systems, testing equipment, and diagnosing problems.
You’ll also be responsible for providing technical support to clients. Many people who start as IT technicians move on to become security consultants. Working as an IT technician is a great stepping stone for other jobs in the cybersecurity field.
Most people begin by earning their associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree. However, you can also earn a certificate in cybersecurity to work as an IT technician.
3. Ethical Hacker
Another typical career in the cybersecurity field is that of an ethical hacker. An ethical hacker is someone who penetrates security systems to expose vulnerabilities. They also work to eliminate the chances of malicious hackers breaching their systems.
Ethical hackers are responsible for the following:
- Scanning network ports to identify vulnerabilities
- Performing network analyses
- Using social engineering techniques to get information about a business’s computing environment
- Helping companies prepare for cyberattacks
- Finding vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could potentially exploit
To become an ethical hacker, you should earn your certification in ethical hacking. The two certifications you can earn are the:
- Certified Ethical Hacker certificate (CEH)
- Offensive Security Certified Professional certificate (OSCP)
It’s also a good idea to earn a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. However, some companies will hire with certification or an associate’s degree, depending on the type of certifications you possess.
4. Information Security Specialist
Information security specialists search for security violations in computer networks. They are responsible for:
- Implementing password authentication systems
- Keeping accurate backup files of all important data
- Performing tests and risk assessments
- Erecting firewalls and encrypting data transmissions
- Choosing, monitoring, and upgrading computer virus software
- Help gather evidence to prosecute cyber crimes
- Promote security awareness within an organization
- Modify security files to work with new software
Information security specialists work in both the private and public sectors. As indicated previously, you will likely need a high-level security clearance, in addition to various certifications after your training. A bachelor’s degree is usually preferred, but an associate’s degree in Cyber Security can get your foot in the door for an entry-level position.
Types of Cybersecurity Jobs: Time to Find a Job in Cybersecurity
As you can see, there are many types of cybersecurity jobs. Now, it’s time for you to decide which career field is right for you. Most cybersecurity careers require you to have a certain level of education.
If you’re interested in earning a degree or certificate in the cybersecurity field, contact us today.