The cybersecurity industry is expected to grow by 15% in the next few years. The most in-demand cybersecurity positions are software developers and security engineers. However, you can find incredible opportunities for entry-level cybersecurity jobs.
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing industries with a high demand for skilled professionals. But unfortunately, there is a lot of competition for entry-level cybersecurity positions.
That’s why it pays to be well versed with the skillsets required for these positions and be able to demonstrate them on your resume.
It is not easy to get a job in cybersecurity, especially if you don’t have the skillset for it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a career in cybersecurity.
Many jobs are not directly related to cyber security but require the skillset of someone with a cybersecurity background.
That will allow you to become a fittable candidate for an entry-level job in cybersecurity.
The following is an example of how one might find their skill set for a given job posting:
“Cybersecurity Analyst:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Experience with penetration testing tools
- Experience with research and development of security products
- Experience with automating security processes
- Experience in interviewing and hiring employees.“
This job posting has many skill requirements that, if one meets, would make them a qualified candidate for this position.
What are the Most In-Demand Cybersecurity Jobs?
Many cybersecurity jobs are in demand.
These include: software developers, information security analysts, and the list go on.
To succeed in this field, a good understanding of the technology involved and the legalities surrounding these technologies is crucial.
A cybersecurity job involves protecting computer networks and data as they are transferred from one location to another.
They also protect computers and networks from outside attacks.
To do this, cybersecurity professionals need to be able to: develop, test, implement, and maintain cybersecurity solutions under the organization’s risk level.
The technologies that a cybersecurity professional would work with include, but are not limited to:
- Firewall systems and intrusion detection systems,
- Encryption software and hardware,
- Virtual private networks and firewalls,
- Malware protection software such as antivirus programs.
Cybersecurity professionals also develop security solutions for computer networks. Therefore, they need to know the technologies involved in networking to build a secure network.
A cybersecurity professional must be able to understand the principles of security and the procedures in place for the organization.
Cybersecurity professionals work with highly sensitive data and often have access to information that can lead to corruption if they do not act following organizational policies.
They must develop and maintain cybersecurity practices that comply with privacy laws, such as access controls in place.
They also work with vendors, cloud service providers, and other cybersecurity professionals on behalf of the organization to ensure that the data is secure.
Where can a Cybersecurity professional work?
Cybersecurity professionals may work for companies such as Apple, Tesla, Amazon, Google, or other tech firms, government agencies, and military organizations.
They must be able to:
- Identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks using the principles of computer science,
- Serve as penetration testers who perform tests to identify weaknesses in a system or network’s defenses, such as security holes that hackers can exploit.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Land a Job in Cybersecurity?
To be successful in a cybersecurity career, you need to have skills that are in high demand.
These skills include:
- Advanced computer literacy
- DevOps and architecture experience
- A deep understanding of networking fundamentals
- An understanding of security principles
- Advanced computer literacy*
- DevOps and architecture experience
- A deep understanding of networking fundamentals
- An understanding of security principles
*Computer literacy is a set of skills that includes operating a computer, understanding computer architecture and programming languages and performing routine tasks such as troubleshooting.
These skills are foundational in cybersecurity because it enables you to be competitive as you advance in your career.
Knowledge of networking fundamentals is imperative for cybersecurity professionals as well.
It enables you to understand better network architectures, networking systems’ components, and standards. For example, you can understand how to comply with standards like HIPAA or PCI-DSS ethically.
This experience is valuable because it allows you to work in a more efficient environment with less risk. Knowledge of networking fundamentals is imperative for cybersecurity professionals as well.
What Skills Do You Need to Land a Secure Entry Level Security Position?
The security industry is constantly growing and changing.
With new threats and technologies emerging, it is vital to stay on top of the latest trends to succeed in this field.
The skills you will need to land a secure entry-level security position vary. But some of the most important skills include:
- Communication,
- Problem-solving,
- Decision-making, and
- Critical thinking.
With so many different security positions available, your skills must be aligned with what employers want for you to get hired.
