A cybersecurity specialist might wear many hats depending on the size and shape of his or her company or organization. Like the job title implies, cybersecurity specialists are expected to have a certain level of training and expertise that allows them to give advice and training on the latest digital best practices. Information security requires employees to possess hard skills, such as programming languages, and engage in complex technological solutions. Security specialists should begin by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or a related area, such as computer science. If you’re new to cybersecurity, you may start out in an entry-level IT role, such as a help desk technician, network administrator, or software developer.

Review professional expectations, median salaries, typical responsibilities, and required skills for security specialists. We recommend that you align these goals with your personality, interests, and values, as this will ensure your career choice will be rewarding and fulfilling. If you have any uncertainties about the education, experience, knowledge, or skills you need for a security specialist role, be sure to get in touch with the recruiter directly. They will be able to clarify which items a company deems necessary, preferred, or desirable. We have compiled all the relevant information about the security specialist role, so you can decide whether this is the ideal career path for you. We reveal the essential aspects of the position, how to get hired, data on salary expectations, and the best companies that are hiring.

Career outlook for IT specialists

Also, even if one of these certificates isn’t required for a role, it may still be preferable, or at least beneficial. To get hired as a security specialist, you always want to develop your skills and knowledge as much as possible, and certificates help you to do exactly that. If the above description of a security specialist’s role and skill set appeals to you, what steps should you take to get started on this career path?

Security specialists also secure data networks, intercept security breaches, and make changes to improve security. Specific fallout from security breaches can vary depending on the type of work an organization does. According to Glassdoor.com, the national average salary for an IT security specialist is $95,689 based on a scale that checks in at $45,000 how to become a security specialist per year on the low end and up to $102,000 per year at the high end. The pay rate can depend on the industry—for example, companies such as Target pay as much as $155,892 per year for an IT security specialist, while Boeing offers an annual salary of $119,450. The U.S. Army also offers $4,244 per month for their IT security specialist roles.

Required Education for Security Specialists

Many specialists begin as network administrators, computer systems analysts, or network engineers. An undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or general computer science may qualify applicants for some positions. However, internships and IT work experience can help recent graduates stand out in the job market. Some of the soft skills for cybersecurity specialists include problem solving, attention to detail, communication, and a strong desire to learn. Cybersecurity specialists also need technical aptitude, understanding of hacking, and knowledge of security across various platforms.

• No matter the name, cybersecurity professionals deal with computer networks, the cloud, and new technology as it arrives on the virtual scene.
• Any of these business or government agencies may require more cybersecurity and more professionals in the field moving forward.
• Because there are too few cybersecurity specialists employed in this field, the market favors you.
• Cybersecurity workers and information security specialists both protect valuable information and data.
• Learn more about key topics including support specialist career paths and educational requirements.