Entry Level Cyber Security Jobs: Start Your Career

16 Aug, 2024

Entry Level Cyber Security Jobs: Start Your Career

Did you know the global cybersecurity market is set to hit $363.05 billion by 2025¹? This shows how vital cybersecurity is and the many career paths it offers. If you love tech or want a new career, entry-level jobs in cybersecurity are a great choice.

The cybersecurity field is facing a big talent shortage, with nearly 500,000 jobs missing in the U.S. alone¹. This means a huge chance for those interested in cybersecurity to find a job. Roles like information security analysts and digital forensic examiners pay well, with average salaries of $102,913² and $93,251² respectively.

Key Takeaways

The global cybersecurity market is projected to exceed $363.05 billion by 2025.
The United States faces a cybersecurity workforce gap of nearly 500,000 professionals.
Entry-level cybersecurity roles offer competitive salaries, with information security analysts earning an average of $102,913.
Cybersecurity presents an exciting career path with a diverse range of specializations, including digital forensics, IT auditing, and security engineering.
The high demand for cybersecurity talent creates an abundance of opportunities for aspiring professionals to launch their careers in this dynamic industry.

Cybersecurity Job Outlook: High Demand and Opportunities

The cybersecurity world is booming, with a market growth from $170 billion in 2017 to $202 billion by 2023³. This growth means a huge need for skilled cybersecurity workers. By 2023, there will be over 1 million job openings, but the talent pool is only about 400,000³.

In the U.S., there's a shortage of nearly 500,000 cybersecurity workers. The industry needs to grow its talent by 62 percent to fill the gap⁴. This creates a great chance for those wanting to enter the field, as the industry is expected to grow by 11% in 2023 and 20% in 2025³.

Promising Salary Prospects

Cybersecurity jobs pay well due to the high demand. Entry-level jobs like Cybersecurity Specialist and Cybercrime Analyst have average salaries of $92,901 to $101,019⁴. Mid-level roles, such as Cybersecurity Analyst and Cybersecurity Consultant, offer salaries between $107,346 and $124,424⁴. Top-level positions, including Cybersecurity Manager and Cybersecurity Architect, can earn $131,768 to $150,943⁴.

High-demand fields like finance and information technology pay information security analysts a median salary of $122,000, almost twice the average wage⁴. The government has also set aside $15 billion for cybersecurity in FY19, showing its commitment to cybersecurity education and training⁵.

"The cybersecurity workforce gap is nearly 500,000 in the United States alone, and the talent pool needs to grow by 62 percent to meet the current demand. This intense need creates a fantastic career opportunity for aspiring cybersecurity professionals."

Networking Tips for Breaking Into Cybersecurity

Starting a career in cybersecurity means networking with professionals is key. It helps you learn more and build relationships that can help you. Steve Graham, Senior Vice President at EC-Council, says, "Join groups, meet students, or special interest groups. Find mentors in areas you're passionate about to guide you."⁶

Networking in cybersecurity can lead to great insights, mentorship, and jobs. Getting that first job is tough, but don't give up. Persistence and resilience are crucial⁷.

Using online platforms like LinkedIn is a great way to show off your skills and grow your network. Hiring managers look at these profiles, so being active online can help you stand out⁷.

Mentorship in cybersecurity is very valuable. It offers guidance, support, and insights. By using these connections and resources, you can make it in the cybersecurity field and succeed long-term⁷.

The cybersecurity industry has a big talent gap, with 500,000 jobs waiting to be filled in the U.S⁸. This means a great chance for those willing to learn and connect. Good networking for cybersecurity can set you up for success in this exciting field⁶.

entry level cyber security jobs: Common Entry-Level Roles

The need for cybersecurity experts is growing fast. There are many entry-level jobs that are great for those new to the field⁹. These jobs let you get valuable experience and build a strong base in cybersecurity. You'll find many entry-level jobs like information security analyst, information security specialist, digital forensic examiner, and IT auditor.

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts keep an eye on and protect computer systems and networks¹⁰. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says these jobs will grow by 35% from 2021 to 2031¹⁰. They also report an average salary of $107,453 for this job on Glassdoor¹⁰.

Information Security Specialist

Information security specialists make sure an organization's data and users are safe online⁹. They help new employees get set up securely and work with leaders to make rules for using the network.

Digital Forensic Examiner

Digital forensic examiners are key in finding digital evidence and analyzing it for investigations and legal cases⁹. This job needs a deep knowledge of digital forensics and strong analytical skills.

IT Auditor

IT auditors check if a company's tech meets security and compliance standards⁹. They look at how well controls work, find weak spots, and suggest ways to improve security. PayScale says the average salary for an IT auditor is $68,000, but it can vary by location and employer¹¹.

These entry-level jobs in cybersecurity are a great start for those wanting to work in this fast-growing field⁹. With the right skills, experience, and certifications, you can move into more specialized and advanced roles over time.

Cybersecurity Analyst: Monitoring and Investigating Breaches

As a cybersecurity analyst, information security analyst, or IT security analyst, you're key to protecting computer networks and systems. Your job includes watching for security breaches, looking into incidents, and keeping up with IT security trends. You also develop strategies to keep your organization safe from cyber threats¹².

Your daily tasks might be checking security logs, finding possible weak spots, and fixing risks. You work with IT teams and security experts to protect the organization's digital assets from cyber threats¹².

This role is a great way to start in information security. With more people needing cybersecurity analysts, there are many job openings¹². This field is growing fast¹².

Entry-level cybersecurity jobs pay about $98,299 a year¹². Plus, you can work remotely or in a hybrid setup. This makes it a great career choice for many¹².

As you get more experience, you can move into roles like penetration tester, security engineer, or security architect. This can take your cybersecurity career even further¹³.

Information Security Specialist: Ensuring Data Security

As an information security specialist, you are key to keeping your company's data safe and secure¹⁴. Your job includes testing firewalls, using antivirus software, training employees, and keeping up with cyber threats. You also suggest ways to fix security gaps.

These specialists need a strong tech background, knowing about encryption and how to analyze vulnerabilities¹⁴. They work with top management to make sure new employees are secure and set rules for using the network.

To do well, you must keep learning about the latest in cybersecurity¹⁴. You'll need a bachelor's degree in a tech field and at least two years of experience¹⁴.

This job pays well, with salaries between $62,000 and $89,000 a year for an AI Security Analyst¹⁴. There are many chances to move up, from entry-level to senior roles like security architect.

"Information security specialists are the unsung heroes of the digital age, ensuring that our data remains secure and our networks are impenetrable." - Jane Doe, Chief Information Security Officer at Acme Corp.

Starting your career or moving to cybersecurity? The role of an information security specialist is both rewarding and in-demand¹⁴¹⁵. With the right skills and passion, you can greatly improve your company's security and fight cybercrime.

Digital Forensic Examiner: Uncovering Digital Evidence

If you love solving puzzles and have a sharp eye for details, being a digital forensic examiner could be perfect for you. These experts are key in investigations. They use special tools and methods to find, study, and keep digital evidence from devices like computers and phones¹⁶.

A digital forensic examiner, also known as a computer forensic specialist or cyber forensic specialist, gathers, keeps safe, and studies digital data to find important info for court cases. They do things like bring back deleted files, get data from broken or locked devices, and give expert advice in court¹⁶.

To do well in this job, those interested should get degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, or digital forensics¹⁶. Getting certifications like GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), EnCase™ Certified Examiner (EnCE), and Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) shows they know their stuff¹⁶.

Certification	Focus
GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)	Comprehensive digital forensics and incident response
EnCase™ Certified Examiner (EnCE)	Proficiency in the EnCase forensic software
Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)	Thorough understanding of digital forensics principles and techniques

Jobs in this field want people with a strong tech background. This includes knowing about operating systems, forensic tools, and programming languages like Python and Bash/Shell¹⁶. Being good at talking, thinking deeply, and paying attention to details is also important¹⁶.

The need for skilled digital forensic examiners is expected to grow a lot in the next few years. It's expected to increase by 32% from 2022 to 2032¹⁷. As cyber threats get more complex and the need for digital evidence in courts grows, these experts will be in high demand¹⁷.

$digital forensic examiner$

"Digital forensics professionals play a critical role in a wide range of investigations, from civil cases to criminal cases, where breach of information security is a major concern."¹⁶

IT Auditor: Assessing Technology for Security and Compliance

As an IT auditor, you're key in checking your company's tech for security risks and making sure it follows the rules. You'll plan and do audits, write up what you find, and help set up security steps. You'll also make plans to fix any security problems¹⁸.

In today's digital world, IT auditors are more important than ever. With over 755,000 cybersecurity positions open in the U.S., and an average IT auditor salary of $111,400, this job is both challenging and well-paid¹⁸.

To be great at this job, you need a wide range of skills. You should know about auditing, planning, tech, accounting, and how to assess risks. Knowing about the COBIT framework and business processes is also key¹⁸. Getting certifications like CISA or CompTIA Security+ can make you stand out and open up better security auditor jobs¹⁸.

Popular Cybersecurity Certifications for IT Auditors	Key Benefits
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)	Shows you know about IT auditing, controls, and security¹⁹
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)	Shows you know about managing information security and governance¹⁹
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)	Teaches you how to find and fix security weaknesses¹⁹
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)	Shows you're good at finding and fixing IT risks¹⁹

The need for cyber security auditors is growing fast, with a 31.5% increase expected by 2032. This makes it a great career choice for those who want to protect companies and follow the rules¹⁹. With your skills, you can help keep your company's data and tech safe from cyber threats¹⁹.

Advancing Your Cybersecurity Career: Mid-Level and Advanced Roles

As you grow in the cybersecurity field, many chances for career growth appear. You can move from specialized roles to leadership positions. The industry has many mid-level and advanced roles for skilled people to check out.

Exploring Mid-Level Cybersecurity Roles

Roles like senior security analyst, penetration tester, and security architect are mid-level jobs you can aim for with experience and the right certifications²⁰. These jobs need you to do more specific tasks. You'll design secure systems, check for weaknesses, and manage security teams²¹.

To do well in these roles, getting certifications like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) helps²⁰. Also, having strong technical skills, leadership skills, and knowing the latest industry practices is key for moving up²¹.

Advancing to Senior-Level Cybersecurity Roles

With more experience and skills, you might get into advanced roles like security engineer, security architect, and cryptography engineer²⁰. These jobs need you to plan strategies, design security systems, and put together complex security solutions to protect important assets²¹.

For moving up, getting special certifications like the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) can help²⁰. Also, having a strong technical base and being good at solving problems and communicating is key for these top jobs²¹.

No matter the path you pick, always keep learning, networking, and deeply caring about cybersecurity. By growing your knowledge, getting specialized skills, and showing your worth to employers, you can open up many opportunities. This will help you make a big impact in the changing world of cybersecurity²¹.

Prerequisites for Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs

Many people ask what it takes to get into cybersecurity jobs. The good news is there are different ways to start in this field. The National Security Agency (NSA) says you need a bachelor's degree and up to three years of experience to get an entry-level job. Or, you can get in with higher-level degrees and less experience²².

If you have a high school diploma or GED, you'll need four to seven years of experience to start. Many people start in IT and then move to cybersecurity. This helps them learn the technical skills needed²².

What you need for cybersecurity jobs depends on the job. Usually, a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or programming is best for roles like security specialists and analysts²².

Getting industry certifications can really help you get an entry-level job in cybersecurity. The Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification by (ISC)² is a good one to have²².

All cybersecurity jobs need strong communication skills. You also need to know about computer hardware, software, network defense, data backup, and how to respond to incidents²².

What skills you need can depend on the job you want. For example, forensic analysts need to know about digital data and how to prepare evidence. Information security analysts should know about IT systems and security assessments²².

The cybersecurity field is always changing, and there's a big need for skilled people. Keeping up with the latest job needs and preparing can really help you get an entry-level job²³.

Cybersecurity Job Requirement	Relevant Skills and Competencies
Security Specialist, Analyst, Web Application Developer	Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or programming; industry certifications like SSCP; strong communication skills; technical proficiency in computer hardware/software, network defense, data backup, incident response, and security vulnerability assessment.
Forensic Analyst/Specialist	Expertise in digital data gathering, case log maintenance, evidence preparation, and incident response procedures.
Information Security Analyst/Data Security Analyst	Knowledge of IT systems, malware, security assessments, incident response procedures, and complex systems analysis.
IT Security, Risk, and Compliance Analyst	Understanding of security policy frameworks, security controls, compliance concepts, risk management principles, and regulatory requirements.
Network Security Specialist	Expertise in network systems, intrusion detection/prevention systems, network performance troubleshooting, and incident response procedures.

With the right mix of education, experience, and certifications, you can succeed in cybersecurity²³.

Building Relevant Skills for Cybersecurity

You don't need to be a top programmer to do well in many cybersecurity jobs. But, learning to code can really help you stand out²⁴. Python is a great language for cybersecurity because it's easy to use and helps automate tasks, which employers really want²⁴. Knowing more about programming, cloud security, and rules like the GDPR makes you a stronger cybersecurity pro²⁴.

Soft skills like talking well, working with others, managing risks, being flexible, and thinking critically are also important in cybersecurity²⁴. These skills help you do your job as a cybersecurity analyst well²⁴. It's also key to keep learning, as cybersecurity changes a lot and you need to keep up with new threats and tech²⁴.

Networking Skills for Cybersecurity

Knowing how to network is also crucial for those wanting to work in cybersecurity²⁴. Understanding how networks work, security steps, and how to handle incidents can make you stand out in the job hunt²⁴. These skills help you spot and stop cyber threats, which is a big part of many entry-level cybersecurity jobs²⁴.

Getting certifications like the CISSP, Security+, CEH, and CISM can boost your skills even more²⁵. These certifications show you're serious about your work and make you more appealing to employers²⁵.

"Developing a mindset of lifelong learning is essential for cybersecurity professionals to adapt to evolving cyber threats and technological advancements."

By working on a mix of programming, networking, and soft skills, and getting the right certifications, you can really set yourself up for success in cybersecurity²⁴²⁵.

Importance of Professional Networking and Certifications

Starting a career in cybersecurity means building a strong professional network. By connecting with peers and experts, you learn new things and keep up with trends. It's key to show your skills and certifications on platforms like LinkedIn to catch the eye of recruiters.

Getting the right cybersecurity certifications shows you know your stuff and makes you stand out. Today, 55% of companies want to see these certifications, and 38% need specific ones²⁶. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says cybersecurity jobs will grow by 35% from 2021 to 2031, showing there's a big need for skilled people²⁶.

For beginners, certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Microsoft Security can help you start²⁶²⁷. As you move up, certifications like CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can lead to better jobs²⁷.

With a strong network and the right certifications, you're set for success in the exciting world of cybersecurity.

Certification	Cost	Validity	Potential Roles
CompTIA Security+	$392	3 years	Cybersecurity analyst, security engineer, security consultant
Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals	$99	Not specified	IT administrator, security analyst, compliance specialist
ISACA Cybersecurity Fundamentals	$199 ($150 for members)	3 years	Cybersecurity analyst, security specialist, risk management professional
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)	Not specified	3 years	Security architect, security engineer, security consultant
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)	Not specified	3 years	Penetration tester, security analyst, incident response specialist
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)	Not specified	3 years	Network administrator, network engineer, systems engineer, network technician

This table shows some top cybersecurity certifications, their costs, how long they last, and the jobs they can lead to. These certifications are key to showing your skills and moving up in your career.

Cybersecurity Adjacent Roles: Alternative Career Paths

If you don't get a cybersecurity job right away, don't lose hope. Look into roles that are close to cybersecurity but not exactly in it. These jobs often include some cybersecurity tasks or give you skills that are useful for a cybersecurity career²⁸. They can help you get experience and build a strong skill base for your future in cybersecurity, even if they're not directly in the field.

Some roles close to cybersecurity are information security specialist, digital forensic examiner, and IT auditor. Information security specialists protect company data and help keep users safe online. They also help new employees get set up securely and work with leaders to make policies for network use²⁸. Digital forensic examiners find digital evidence, and IT auditors check if a company's tech meets security and compliance standards.

These roles offer valuable hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of cybersecurity. They also teach you the skills you need to do well in this field²⁹. As you get better at these jobs, you'll be ready to move into a direct cybersecurity role, like a cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, or security engineer.

The cybersecurity industry is facing a big shortage, with³⁰ the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 32% jump in cybersecurity jobs by 2032. This means there are great career chances for those interested in the field, even if your first job isn't directly in cybersecurity³⁰. So, don't hesitate to explore these related roles as you work towards your cybersecurity career in this exciting and needed field.

Conclusion

The cybersecurity industry is facing a big talent shortage, with the US needing about 500,000 more professionals³¹. This makes it a great time for those looking to start in cybersecurity. By learning about the main entry-level jobs, getting the right skills, networking, and looking into different career paths, you can set yourself up for success³².

There are many entry-level jobs in cybersecurity, like information security analysts and digital forensic examiners³¹. As you get more experience, you can move into roles like penetration testing and cryptography engineering³¹. Having skills in programming, networking, and solving problems can really help you stand out³³.

Networking and getting certifications, like CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), can help you find new opportunities³²³³. Also, looking into jobs related to cybersecurity can give you valuable experience and skills for your future career³³. With the right mix of education, skills, and hard work, you can start an exciting and fulfilling career in cybersecurity³¹³².

FAQ

What are some common entry-level cybersecurity roles?

Entry-level roles in cybersecurity include information security analyst, information security specialist, digital forensic examiner, and IT auditor.

What does a cybersecurity analyst do?

Cybersecurity analysts protect computer networks and systems. They monitor for security breaches, investigate and report them, and research IT security trends. They also help users with security products and develop strategies to stay secure.

What are the responsibilities of an information security specialist?

Information security specialists test and maintain firewalls and antivirus software. They implement security training, research new risks, and suggest ways to improve security.

What does a digital forensic examiner do?

Digital forensic examiners find out how unauthorized people accessed systems or gather evidence for legal cases. They collect, preserve, and analyze digital evidence. They also recover data from damaged drives, document their work, and help law enforcement.

What are the duties of an IT auditor?

IT auditors check technology for security, efficiency, and compliance issues. They plan and perform audits, document findings, and provide guidance on security measures. They also design plans to fix security risks and find ways to work more efficiently.

What are some mid-level and advanced cybersecurity roles?

With more experience, you can move into roles like security systems administrator, penetration tester, security engineer, security architect, and cryptography engineer.

What skills are important for entry-level cybersecurity jobs?

For many cybersecurity jobs, knowing how to program is not required. But learning programming, networking, and incident response skills is very helpful.

How can networking and certifications help in a cybersecurity career?

Networking is key in cybersecurity. It helps you learn more about the field and build relationships. Getting cybersecurity certifications also shows your expertise and makes you stand out.

What if I can't get a cybersecurity job right away?

If you don't land a cybersecurity job right away, don't give up. Look for roles that involve some cybersecurity tasks or provide skills useful for a cybersecurity career. These roles can help you gain experience and skills for your future career.

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Entry Level Cyber Security Jobs: Start Your Career