Cyber Security Engineer: Responsibilities, Salary, and Career Path

Introduction 

Cyber Security is a niche field and deals with protecting computer networks and systems from cyber-attacks. These digital attacks try to access, manipulate, or destroy sensitive information and even try to extort money from users by stealing their personal data.  A cyber security engineer is a person tasked with protecting computer networks by using multiple layers of protection to keep the data safe.

In today’s digitized world, where everything is accessible with just a click of a finger, cyber security and cyber defense are essential to keep individuals as well as society functional. The function of a cyber security engineer becomes even more indispensable in this world where cyber-crime is expected to cost the world $6 trillion by 2021.

1. Cyber Security Engineer Definition 
2. Responsibilities of a Cyber Security Engineer 
3. Cyber Security Engineer Qualifications 
4. How Much Do Cyber Security Engineers Make 
5. Career Path of a Cyber Security Engineer 

1. Cyber Security Engineer Definition 

Cyber security engineers, also known as data security engineers or IT security engineers, are professionals that design, develop and execute highly secure network solutions for companies, to protect them from getting hacked and other cyber-attacks or threats. They form part of the IT team in any organization and work in tandem with other departments to find out and fix any glitches and security threats arising due to security lapses.

2. Responsibilities of a Cyber Security Engineer 

According to the job profile in an organization, cyber security engineer responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Evaluating the security requirements of the business and plan and create contingency measures accordingly. 
• Designing, maintaining, overseeing, implementing, and upgrading security networks and systems to protect all sensitive data of an organization.  
• Contributing to the development of cybersecurity strategies to make the organization secure in case of a breach or intrusion in the network system. 
• Implementing protective measures such as firewalls, encryption techniques 
• Responding to and troubleshooting security breaches happening within the company. 
• Conducting penetration testing to detect vulnerabilities and loopholes in the network. 
• Taking appropriate steps to safeguard existing data and infrastructure. 
• Handling routine tasks like reporting and communicating with other departments for effortless problem-solving. 
• Participating in the change management process within the organization. 

3. Cyber Security Engineer Qualifications 

A passion for all things related to information technology, a drive to find out and fix glitches in the computer system, and natural innateness to figure out problems logically are the most important skills required in a person pursuing to become a cyber security expert. 

The cyber security engineer job description also entails:  

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, IT, Systems Engineering, or a connected field. 
• Two to three years’ experience in cyber security field like intrusion detection, incident response, and computer forensics. 
• Experience in operation of routers, intrusion detection, and prevention, the functionality of firewalls, and endpoint security systems. 
• Extensive knowledge of tools and languages like Node, Python, Power Shell, C , Java, Ruby, Go, etc. 
• Certifications such as Global Information Assurance Certification, Certified Information Systems Security  Professional, Cisco Certified Network Professional, Certified Ethical Hacker v10, Certified Information Systems Auditor, etc. also are key to getting the desired role in the field.
• Staying current about the latest trends in the world of cyber security. With so many changes and advancements happening in the field, upskilling and upgrading is the key when it comes to the profession of being a cyber security expert.

4. How Much Do Cyber Security Engineers Make 

How much do cyber security engineers make is a question the answer to which depends upon many factors such as industry, location, education, experience, job function, and level. 

Cyber security engineer starting salary is around $59K a year.  On average, the salary ranges between $74K – $96K annually, depending upon the experience of the professional and the level of expertise. An Indian cyber security engineer’s salary averages  ₹500,000 –  ₹550,000 a year and in Australia, it’s around $120K -$140K. 

The above numbers can fluctuate depending on the demand and supply too. Regardless of the range, a cyber security engineer can earn some of the best pay scales available in the IT field. 

5. Career Path of a Cyber Security Engineer 

The chances of growth in the field of cyber security are substantial. One can start working in the field as a beginner right out of college or can switch tracks and transition from other IT roles to cyber security. There is no linear path for becoming an expert in cyber security, but a knack for IT and computing is a must. 

Anyone who is passionate about problem-solving and strategizing can opt for a security architect career path. Security architects create complex security structures and ensure their proper functioning. The design security systems to combat malware, hacker intrusions, and DDoS attacks.  

An all-rounder cyber security expert works as a security consultant. The role entails assessing cybersecurity risks, identifying problems, and providing solutions. The person is also referred to as an information/database/web security consultant. A Security consultant needs to be flexible to deal with a wide range of security systems across diverse companies and industries. 

A Penetration tester, also known as an ethical hacker looks for weaknesses in computer systems, networks, and applications using the same knowledge and tactics as black hat hackers. These white hat testers use multiple tools to simulate real-life cyberattacks, identify weak spots, and help organizations improve their security posture. 

A career path in the field of cyber security engineer can eventually lead a person to becoming a Chief information security officer. This senior level management position has a lot of creative freedom and power. A CISO builds security teams and oversees the entire organization’s security and directly reports to the highest level management aka CEO.

The average salary for a CISO is in the range of $160,000. One can expect to spend anywhere between eight to fifteen years working in the field of information technology and security before qualifying for this prestigious and responsible role. 

Conclusion 

The future in the field of cyber security is quite lucrative, especially in today’s cyber-motivated world, where according to research one business falls victim to ransomware every 11 seconds. Cybercrime and data breaches are a threat that companies and even governments face on a regular basis and due to this, cyber security engineers have become an integral part of organizations. The career is in-demand and much sought after by technologically motivated individuals. 

So, have you made up your mind to make a career in Cyber Security? Visit our Master Certificate in Cyber Security (Red Team) for further help. It is the first program in offensive technologies in India and allows learners to practice in a real-time simulated ecosystem, that will give you an edge in this competitive world.

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