Security specialist career guide: Finding a security specialist job

Cybersecurity specialists handle a broad set of technical responsibilities related to safeguarding sensitive digital information and data. Depending on the size of their employer, these cybersecurity experts may work in niche, specialized areas of the field or oversee more general security tasks. They provide ongoing oversight for organizations’ cybersecurity efforts through several methods. IT security specialists defend an organization’s data and information systems.

However, cybersecurity prevents access by bad actors, and information security considers aspects like the availability and confidentiality of data. Information security specialists may handle aspects like multifactor authentication and access to physical information storage areas. Pursuing a career in cybersecurity means joining a booming industry where available jobs outnumber qualified candidates.

What’s included?

Cybersecurity specialists need to be comfortable in a world that is constantly moving and shifting. A cybersecurity specialist might wear many hats depending on the size and shape of his or her company or organization. As 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. However, cybersecurity specialists usually focus on analyzing, monitoring, and responding to threats, while IT security specialists research, monitor, and install protective software. As an IT Security Specialist, you would be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of an organisation’s computer systems, networks, and data. You would use various tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities in the system, and develop strategies to prevent and respond to potential security breaches.

Organizations hire security specialists to prevent security breaches, which involves identifying any system weaknesses that a cyber criminal might exploit. A security specialist should also research evolving risks (new methods that cyber criminals employ) and implement changes that take all known risks into account. The average salary for IT security specialists in the UK is between £35,000 and £60,000, depending on experience, according to the National Careers Service. A T Level will enable you to progress to an entry level role within Cyber Security, further training within an apprenticeship, or a place on a higher education course. A Diploma of Higher Education is the equivalent to two years of study at undergraduate level.

Salary Expectations for an IT Security Specialist

Major job requirements can widely vary among employers and you might miss the opportunity to build up your work experience and knowledge before making the leap toward a senior or management position. Whatever option you choose, a security specialist role may be a career that offers many opportunities. Some cybersecurity professionals pursue experience before earning certification. Whatever path they choose, security specialists need strong technical skills and a commitment to continuing education. Applicants should explore which certifications match their skills and desired career path. Some cybersecurity certifications cater to entry-level candidates while others prepare workers for advanced positions.

Maybe you enjoy the thrill of incident response, or perhaps you’d prefer to hone your hacking skills to stay one step ahead of bad actors. According to Indeed.com, the average annual salary for this occupation is $50,380 in the United States. Compensation varies according to experience, as well as geographical location, so the average salaries for some of the most popular U.S. tech hubs are listed in the chart below. how to become a security specialist Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level. First, the increasing reliance on technology in all aspects of our lives has created more opportunities for cybercriminals to attack. This can take the form of other, related work experience, or it can take the form of a structured internship or other formal hands-on learning.