Intro
Launch your career in security with these 10 entry-level security jobs that require no experience. Discover in-demand roles, job descriptions, and growth opportunities in cybersecurity, information security, and physical security. Learn how to get started in the security industry with little to no experience and start building a secure future today.
Breaking into the cybersecurity industry can be intimidating, especially for those with little to no experience. However, the demand for skilled professionals in this field has never been higher, and there are numerous entry-level security jobs that don't require prior experience. In this article, we'll explore 10 entry-level security jobs that can help launch your career in cybersecurity.
These jobs are perfect for individuals who are passionate about cybersecurity and willing to learn and grow. Many of these roles offer on-the-job training, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement.
1. Cybersecurity Analyst
A cybersecurity analyst is responsible for monitoring and analyzing an organization's computer systems and networks for potential security threats. This role involves identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security measures, and responding to incidents.
- Median salary: $76,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor network traffic and system logs for suspicious activity
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
- Implement security patches and updates
- Respond to security incidents and develop incident response plans
2. Information Security Specialist
An information security specialist is responsible for developing and implementing security policies and procedures to protect an organization's sensitive data. This role involves conducting risk assessments, implementing security controls, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Median salary: $83,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies
- Implement security controls and policies
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Develop incident response plans and conduct security training
3. Network Security Engineer
A network security engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining secure network architectures. This role involves configuring firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security devices.
- Median salary: $110,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of network protocols and security devices
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement secure network architectures
- Configure firewalls and intrusion detection systems
- Conduct network vulnerability assessments
- Develop and implement network security policies
4. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
A SOC analyst is responsible for monitoring and responding to security incidents in real-time. This role involves analyzing network traffic, system logs, and other data to identify potential security threats.
- Median salary: $70,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor network traffic and system logs for suspicious activity
- Analyze security data to identify potential security threats
- Respond to security incidents and develop incident response plans
- Collaborate with other teams to resolve security incidents
5. Penetration Tester
A penetration tester is responsible for simulating cyber attacks on an organization's computer systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities. This role involves conducting vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and providing recommendations for remediation.
- Median salary: $80,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
- Identify and exploit vulnerabilities
- Provide recommendations for remediation
- Develop and implement security testing frameworks
6. Incident Response Specialist
An incident response specialist is responsible for responding to security incidents and developing incident response plans. This role involves collaborating with other teams to resolve security incidents and implementing security controls to prevent future incidents.
- Median salary: $75,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Respond to security incidents and develop incident response plans
- Collaborate with other teams to resolve security incidents
- Implement security controls to prevent future incidents
- Conduct post-incident activities and provide recommendations for improvement
7. Security Consultant
A security consultant is responsible for providing security advice and guidance to organizations. This role involves conducting risk assessments, implementing security controls, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Median salary: $90,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies
- Implement security controls and policies
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Provide security advice and guidance to organizations
8. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
A CISO is responsible for overseeing an organization's overall security strategy and program. This role involves developing and implementing security policies, managing security budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Median salary: $150,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, advanced knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement security policies and procedures
- Manage security budgets and resources
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Oversee incident response and security testing
9. Security Architect
A security architect is responsible for designing and implementing secure architectures for organizations. This role involves developing security policies, implementing security controls, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Median salary: $120,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, advanced knowledge of security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement secure architectures
- Develop security policies and procedures
- Implement security controls and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Collaborate with other teams to resolve security incidents
10. Cloud Security Engineer
A cloud security engineer is responsible for designing and implementing secure cloud architectures. This role involves configuring cloud security controls, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and responding to security incidents.
- Median salary: $100,000/year
- Job requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, basic knowledge of cloud security frameworks and protocols
- Growth prospects: 32% (much faster than average)
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement secure cloud architectures
- Configure cloud security controls and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Respond to security incidents and develop incident response plans
- Collaborate with other teams to resolve security incidents
In conclusion, these 10 entry-level security jobs offer a great starting point for individuals looking to launch their careers in cybersecurity. Remember to always keep learning and stay up-to-date with the latest security trends and technologies.
What is the average salary for entry-level cybersecurity jobs?
+The average salary for entry-level cybersecurity jobs varies depending on the specific role and location. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for information security analysts is around $76,000 per year.
Do I need a degree in computer science to get a job in cybersecurity?
+While a degree in computer science or a related field can be beneficial, it's not always required. Many cybersecurity professionals have degrees in other fields, such as mathematics, engineering, or business. What's more important is having the relevant skills and certifications.
What certifications are most valuable for cybersecurity professionals?
+Some of the most valuable certifications for cybersecurity professionals include CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH, and CISM. These certifications demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in specific areas of cybersecurity.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of entry-level cybersecurity jobs. Remember to stay curious, keep learning, and always be on the lookout for new opportunities to advance your career.