Quick Checklist of Cyber Security Jobs

Word is out that there are a growing number of jobs to be found in the field of cyber security. That explains why job-seekers at all career levels, from graduating college students to senior citizens who are interested in returning to work, are curious about what kind of jobs are available in the field.

Yet not all cyber security jobs are the same, and not all require the same kind of training or credentials. Here’s an overview of some of the different jobs that are hiring today . . .

Company Security Analysts and Auditors

These technical employees analyze company systems and networks and pinpoint areas that are vulnerable to hacking or attacks.

Typical educational requirements: Associates degree in computer science plus additional training; or undergraduate degree in computer security.

Software Security Specialists

These employees are programmers who specialize in developing secure software and systems for use by companies.

Typical educational requirements: Undergraduate degree in computer science and additional security training.

Security Testers

These employees are charged with the task of trying to penetrate and hack company systems, and then to alert companies to vulnerabilities. These professionals are sometimes called Ethical Hackers.

Typical educational requirements: Associates degree in computer science plus additional training or undergraduate degree in computer science.

Security Forensics Analysts

These professionals conduct security investigations of company computers to determine if systems have been compromised or have been the target of attempted hacking.

Typical educational requirements: Associates or undergraduate degree in computer science plus additional training.

Security Breach Responders

These specialists are trained to respond and take appropriate steps when company computers have been hacked or compromised.

Typical educational requirements: Associates or undergraduate degree in computer science plus additional training.

Chief Information Officers

CIOs at some companies are trained to understand and monitor the security of company computers. (Note that some CIOs are not security experts themselves; they hire consultants or employees who handle that aspect of information science.)

Typical educational requirements: Associates or undergraduate degree in computer science or information technology, plus additional training.

Security Consultants

These employees are responsible for setting up protocols and routines that assure that company systems are being properly used by employees.

Typical educational requirements: Associates or undergraduate degree in computer science or information technology, plus additional training.

Ready to see bigger issues about the relationship between college majors and career success? Participate in a Student Research Foundation Career Pathway Study and you will be empowered with new information to make career and educational decisions that ultimately align with your interests, passions, and aptitudes.

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