How can you qualify for entry-level information security jobs?
The ‘Seller’s Market’
Do you know what the experts say about the cybersecurity job landscape?
It is the ‘seller’s market’.
But, what do they mean?
Well, it means that the field is highly productive. Also, it has a zero unemployment rate. Adding to this, experts in the field can demand high-paying salaries. Not to mention that even entry-level job positions are significantly higher compared with other major industries.
So what does this mean for you?
It means that this ‘seller’s market’ is a good career choice.
Also, why not start with entry-level job positions?
Because baby steps should lead to grander steps.
However, being an entry-level in this field does not mean being a ‘fresh graduate’. Since this is a highly demanding job position, qualifications are quite demanding too. That is, even with its entry-level job positions.
What Do Companies Look For In An Entry-Level Information Security Job Position?
Moreover, research shows that entry-level job positions in the field require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of relevant experience.
Consider the State of Cybersecurity Hiring Report of Burning Glass Technologies, for instance. The report says that almost 90% of employers are not opting for newbies. Of course, this should include those ‘without’ any college degree in the relevant field.
But, why?
Because the majority of their job posts specify at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. In addition, they require a minimum of 3 years of on-the-job experience in the field.
Does The Market Need More Cybersecurity Job Positions?
The shortest answer should be, yes.
Yes, of course.
Enterprises of mostly all sorts and shapes need cybersecurity experts. Businesses, government, finance, and retail industries, for instance.
But, why such a dire need?
Because all of them are at the target of cybersecurity attacks.
So basically, all of them need experts and professionals to meet their needs.
However, with such high demand, is not enough talents and skills.
Do you know that report forecasts an estimate of more than 3.5 million job openings in the field in 2021?
Therefore, although the qualification criteria are high, there is surely room for high demand.
What Are Examples Of Entry-Level Information Security Jobs?
For example, here is a list of some entry-level information security jobs.
Cybersecurity Specialist or Technician
Key Skills Requirements:
- Information systems
- Information security
- Network security
- Information assurance
- Security operations
- Vulnerability assessment
- Project management
- NIST cybersecurity framework
This job position is also known as:
- IT Security Specialist
- Information Security Specialist
Required Certifications:
- CompTIA Security+
- CISSP
- SANS/GIAC Certification
- Also, CISA Certification
- CISM Certification
Average Salary: $92,000
Cybercrime Analyst or Investigator
Key Skills Requirements:
- Linux
- Computer Forensics
- Information Security
- Also, hard drive
- Consumer Electronics
This job position is also known as:
- Digital forensics analyst
- Cyber forensic analyst
- Computer forensics analyst
Required Certifications:
- EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE)
- CISSP
- SANS/GIAC Certification
- GCIH Certification
Average Salary: $94,000
Incident Analyst or Responder
Key Skills Requirements:
- Information security
- Project management
- Also, Information systems
- Linux
- Network security
This job position is also known as:
- Disaster Recovery Specialist
- Network Technical Specialist
- Information Security Analyst
Required Certifications:
- CompTIA Security+
- CISSP
- SANS/GIAC Certification
- GIAC Certified Incident Handler
- ITIL Certification
Average Salary: $89,000
