It Cyber Security Specialist Salary

And while it’s important to have fluency in programming languages and experience with UNIX-, Linux-, and Windows-based systems, it’s even more important to have a bachelor’s degree to be qualified for this job. IT security specialists defend an organization’s data and information systems. They accomplish this through a mix of managing security software and educating personnel on cyber security best practices to prevent data breaches, and responding with the appropriate countermeasures should a cyber attack breach the defenses. IT security specialists need strong communication skills, as they are responsible for educating technical and non-technical staffers on computer security protocols and raising information security awareness. In addition to an encyclopedic knowledge of computers, network infrastructures, and breaches (which you’ll learn about while earning your IT degree), certifications can also help set you apart from other IT security specialists.

• Although this is typically a full-time salaried position, the hourly wage for IT security professionals in the U.S. can range from $29 to $100+ per hour, dependent upon employee location, job-or-project role, certifications held and experience level.
• Cisco, CompTIA, CISSP, and CEH are some of the certs that may be required by your employer to be qualified for a role.
• The LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program.
• Analyze the market and your qualifications to negotiate your salary with confidence.

The more a security specialist can guard against attacks, the more a business is able to function at full technological throttle. The actual job description of a security specialist can be hard to pin down, because these specialists https://remotemode.net/ may have varying duties based on their actual position. But typically these specialists are expected to install, configure, and maintain security software designed to prevent outside attacks on the company’s internal network.

How do IT Security Specialists Rate Their Jobs?

IT security professionals are also be expected to monitor the company network for any breaches or vulnerabilities, devising plans for further safeguarding as needed. Most entry-level IT security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, how to become a security specialist information assurance, or a related field of study; these programs typically take 4 years to complete as a full-time student. As you might expect, IT security specialists require extensive technical skills and knowledge to effectively do their jobs.

One thing’s for sure—with this job description you’ll never be bored! But being a key component of a company’s information technology needs can be a rewarding responsibility. SNHU provides affordable online technology degrees that are respected by employers and universities nationwide. “Security is the only area of certified IT skills that has never had a negative quarter throughout this recession,” says David Foote, CEO and Chief Research Officer of leading research firm, Foote Partners. “We’ve never had a three-month period with a loss or decline in premiums for IT security specialists.”

How Much Does an IT Security Specialist Make?

The LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program. Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+. Find out how different WGU is about personalizing and supporting your education.

The U.S. Army also offers $4,244 per month for their IT security specialist roles. Workforce demand for computer security specialists is high in all verticals, including corporations, schools, medical practices, and government agencies. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the IT security specialist job market will grow by 33% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the 8% average for all occupations, placing it among the nation’s fastest growing career paths.