The rate at which data is being generated and exchanged nowadays is beyond imagination, hence the need to protect it from unauthorized access.
To protect an organization’s information, companies request the services of skilled individuals to protect their computer networks and data. To do so, cyber security experts are people to call upon.
Does it sound interesting to you? Do you think you are up for the challenge? If your answer to both questions above is yes, then this article is a must-read for you. Here, you will learn about various cyber security careers you can look into once you are a graduate.
Why Are Cyber Security Jobs In Very High Demand?
Before diving into the many careers you can pursue in cyber security, satisfy your curiosity on why cyber security careers are fast growing.
Perhaps you have been wondering why cyber security jobs are well known and often talked about, now is the time to be aware of the reason.
Today, technology is now an integral part of life that we are barely conscious of its presence. The world experiences constant daily advancements in technology. From the time you are awake till you return to bed, you make use of devices.
However, digital networks are prone to attacks by hackers. As reported by the University of Maryland, hackers launch an attack every 39 seconds, averaging 2,244 times daily.
They work on new strategies to breach your computer networks daily. These cyber-criminal acts, if successful, can cost an individual or organization loss of vital information, money, and even trust from customers.
In the past, cyber security professionals were only employed by defense contractors and government agencies, but today businesses, individuals, and all other organizations require their services. These services are not only to secure computer networks and data but also to keep daily activities running.
You must also know that despite the growing need for cyber security professionals, they are in short supply. As a result, the few available ones are treated like kings and queens.
For these reasons and many more, if it interests you to consider a career in cyber security, the following are excellent options you can pick from.
Security Engineer
A security engineer is also regarded as an information system security engineer or cyber security engineer. These experts have the responsibility of securing an organization’s networks and sensitive operations and product development actions.
Cyber security engineers must as well be able to identify and close loopholes of existing attacks and adequately respond to any damage caused. In addition, they must have a good knowledge of incident analysis and response and information systems protection.
Security engineers lead the analysis and assessment of security threats that could affect the organization. Furthermore, they oversee operations to test and implement any new or updated frameworks, be it software programs or hardware components.
You need a degree in Computer Science or Information Technology if you are considering a career in security engineering. A two-year experience is also required and a vast knowledge of C++, Python, C, Java, and ethical hacking. Strong communication and networking skills are likewise needed. Other required certifications depend on your role and experience level.
A growth rate of 33% by 2030 is proposed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As described by Payscale as of February 2022, the annual salary for a security engineer averages $95,770.
Security Architect
Security architects are cyber security professionals responsible for the design of computer networks and other frameworks with every security intention and maintenance of the organization’s integrity.
It is also their job to implement and establish the designed networks and to continuously improve and upgrade these systems. Security architects are also involved in the analysis of identified security threats.
Often, employers prefer a master’s level education but many will accept a computer science or computer security degree. You must also have experience in analysis and risk management, and knowledge of network hardware configuration, cryptography, and security protocols.
Payscale reported $125,630 as the average annual security architect salary.
Malware Analyst
Malware is also called malicious software. It is designed by cybercriminals to steal data and damage computers and computer networks. Common examples of malware are Trojan viruses, viruses, worms, ransomware, and spyware.
Malware types are in constant involvement and many companies struggle to manage the evolving malware forms which are easily spread undetected. It results in many organizations suffering from this cybersecurity threat and it explains why the need for malware analysts is rising like never before.
Malware analysts identify and analyze malware threats and existing attacks. They then reverse any damage caused and implement protection tools to prevent future occurrence of malware-related attacks.
To work in the role of a malware analyst, you must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or any related field and many years of programming and software development experience. Knowledge of C++, C, Python, and tools such as IDA Pro and Immunity Debugger are required.
Malware analysts receive an average annual salary of $165,000 in the USA.
Security Software Developer
If your interest is in infosec and writing software code, then a security software developer is a perfect role for you.
Security software developers design software and secure it from potential cyber-attacks. They should be able to picture and address future threats. They must balance product functionality, user experience, speed, and security. They must also have updated knowledge of threats which explains why the entry-level role is not considered for this job.
A bachelor’s degree in software engineering or software development is required. Furthermore, security coding skills, cryptography, Infosec, penetration testing, and project management will go a long way in helping you in this career.
Choose A Cyber Security Career Today
As the amount, degree, and size of cyber attacks and threats expand, there is a corresponding rise in demand for skilled cyber security.
Besides the fact that the field is intriguing and satisfying, there is room for career growth, high pay, and the opportunity to have a genuine influence on businesses, organizations, and individuals.
