Learn how to become an Information Security Specialist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path. The salary can vary depending on the area of IT Security, the qualification level and the location of your work. Ethical hacking is also a growth sector and specialised consultants in this area can earn high incomes.

• Proven ability to critically review, analyse and design solutions proposed by security subject matter experts (suppliers/consultants).
• To become a cyber security engineer, it’s recommended that you have a bachelor’s degree in a field that’s related to cyber security.
• For the 6 months to 5 October 2022, IT Security Specialist job roles required the following skills in order of popularity.
• S/he is a strong team player with exceptional analytical skills and the ability to communicate to a range of audiences.

Issues related to web applications and services distributed across devices and frameworks, including the diverse programming paradigms and protection models. The configuration, operation and maintenance of secure systems including the detection of and response to security incidents and the collection and use of threat intelligence. Read what Security Specialist professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career. Read what Information Security Specialist professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.

Developer

In most cases, however, you will not need to be able deliver the services, needing only to know enough to be able to commission and assess the provision of technical services by others, which may include external suppliers. how to become a security specialist It’s possible to enter the cyber security profession without a degree by starting in an entry-level IT position. You could then work your way up to a cyber security role by gaining experience and industry certifications.

They should have hands-on experience programming and maintaining electronic security systems and related components. Familiarity with IT security practices and effective strategies for safeguarding electronic records is helpful. Working as an information security specialist can be challenging at times. They need to stay up to date regarding computer programing languages as well as software updates and might be asked to work long hours or weekends if an issue arises. Some employers, such as those offering graduate training schemes, may fund you to complete an MSc in information/cyber security while you’re on the programme. Where no suitable job is advertised, you can make a speculative application to a company using a CV and cover letter. Seek support from your careers service and, ideally, have your application checked before sending it off.

Jobs at FAO

According to government figures, around a third of cyber security jobs are in London. However, there are opportunities available all over the UK, especially in larger cities. Research by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport conducted in 2022 found half of firms have a basic technical skills gap, while one in three have an advanced skills gap. However, 37 per cent of all vacancies for cyber roles since Jan 2019 have been hard to fill. As a result, if you do have the knowledge and experience businesses are looking for, you’ll be well-placed to advance your career in whatever direction you wish.

With additional training and experience, they can make up to £88,163 annually. Cyber security is a fast-growing field and cyber security skills are in demand, especially within large organisations and those financial services institutions. If it’s an option on your course, you could undertake a 12-month industrial placement in a cyber security role. Or you could contact organisations that employ cyber security analysts and ask to undertake a period of work experience or shadowing. Like much of the IT sector, employers are struggling to fill these cyber security skills gaps – some predict that there could be around 100,000 unfilled cyber security jobs in the UK by 2022. A senior cyber security generalist practitioner might earn between £45,000 and £75,000 a year. Security management systems and organisational security controls, including standards, best practices, and approaches to risk assessment and mitigation.

Cyber security analyst

A Level 3 Information Communications Technician apprenticeship can give you an overview of an IT career, and will help you to build the essential hands-on experience needed to specialise. While the career is enticing on the surface, the technical proficiencies and experience required have proved a formidable barrier to those looking to enter. For those that do start a cyber security career, average salaries hover around £62,500, meaning the reward is well worth the effort to build your foundation. Implements and evaluates compliance with business risk-reduction policies, processes and standards.

• However, 37 per cent of all vacancies for cyber roles since Jan 2019 have been hard to fill.
• All CGI offers of employment in the U.S. are contingent upon the ability to successfully complete a background investigation.
• Using your IT knowledge and troubleshooting skills, you will strive to always deliver the highest levels of client service and specialise in providing support with security issues.

In some organisations, the generalist will be part of a very small cyber security or security team. In other organisations they will be part of the IT team – or, perhaps, even a central corporate team such as Finance. Learn how to become a Security Specialist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

What qualifications do you need to work in IT Security?

Cyber security careers are among the fastest-growing and in-demand fields of IT. Whether you’re looking at further education options, have recently graduated or are considering a change of career, jobs in cyber security offer the potential for high earnings and interesting and varied experiences.

As the cyber threats firms face are evolving all the time, there’ll always be something new to learn and new challenges to tackle. A generalist role may cover any set of cyber security responsibilities, so any and all of the CIISec Skills Groups could be relevant to a generalist.