Top 16 Entry-Level Cyber Security Jobs with Salaries ( + How to Land One)

Overview of Cybersecurity Job Growth

If you’re looking for an in-demand field with continued growth, cybersecurity is hard to beat with an employment rate close to 100%. According to Cyberseek, there are only 85 cybersecurity professionals available for every 100 open positions, leading to these roles taking 21% longer to fill compared to other IT jobs.

Cyberseek also tracks the talent gap with a supply and demand heat map, showing that heavily populated states such as Texas, Florida, New York, California and Virginia have anywhere from 15,200 to 54,000 job openings each.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which monitors labor trends, working conditions and changes in the U.S. workforce, tracks several cybersecurity and IT-related roles. For example, information security analysts are expected to see a 33% job growth rate from 2023 to 2033, adding approximately 17,300 jobs annually on average.

Industries Seeking Cybersecurity Professionals

Hackers and cyber criminals may focus on certain industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, digital agencies, retail, eCommerce and technology, but the reality is that every business is a potential target. This means it’s essential for every industry to employ cybersecurity professionals. 

Here’s a quick rundown of some major industries and examples of employers who have recently posted for cybersecurity positions on LinkedIn:

• Information and technology: Accenture, Google, Cloudflare, Amazon Web Services
• Business and finance: Vanguard, JPMorganChase, McKinsey & Company, Deloitte
• Banking: Citi, Mastercard, Bank of America, Wells Fargo
• Insurance: MetLife, GEICO, Arbella Insurance Group, Travelers
• Healthcare: CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Capital Health, The University of Vermont Medical Center
• Education: Columbia University, George Washington University, University of Southern California
• Retail: Walmart, lululemon, Bass Pro Shops, Lowe’s, Costco Wholesale, Nike
• Government, military and defense: MIT Lincoln Laboratory, General Atomics, SAIC, Naval Nuclear Laboratory
• Sports: FanDuel, National Football League (NFL), FIFA, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Entertainment: Sony, TikTok, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Universal Orlando Resort, Warner Bros. Discovery

Job Outlook for Cybersecurity Careers

Given the increasing threat landscape and the notable shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals, the job outlook for various cybersecurity careers is promising. This growing demand highlights the importance of skilled individuals in safeguarding organizations against all types of cyber threats.

Additionally, there are numerous career paths available, offering a wide range of roles across various industries. In short, the field of cybersecurity is experiencing significant global growth, with competitive salaries and numerous opportunities for professional development and advancement.

16 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Roles

Are you ready to discover your career options? Here are 16 entry-level positions ideal for anyone looking to break into cybersecurity. Please note that these positions are listed alphabetically and are not ranked in any particular order. Salary information may vary from what is listed, as it is updated in real time to reflect changing data.

Compliance Analyst

A compliance analyst is responsible for making sure that a company or organization is complying with specific industry regulations.

Required skills: Attention to detail, auditing, communication, critical thinking, data visualization, diplomacy, problem-solving, research and time management

Relevant certifications: Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Average salary: $62,000 for entry-level roles with an average salary of $79,000; experienced professionals can earn up to $115,000

Cybercrime Investigator

A cybercrime investigator gathers evidence from computer systems that can be used in the prosecution of a crime. Professionals in these positions could work independently as a consultant or as part of a team.

Required skills: An advanced understanding of computer systems, coding, critical thinking, organization and good communication

Relevant certifications: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Average salary: $84,905 with a range of $47,000-$135,000+

Cybersecurity Technician

A cybersecurity technician implements and maintains security systems, monitors areas for potential vulnerabilities and responds quickly to data breaches and cyber attacks.

Required skills: An advanced understanding of computer systems, coding, critical thinking, organization and good communication

Relevant certifications: CISSP, CEH

Average salary: $55,353 with a range of $30,500-$84,500

Digital Forensic Analyst

Also known as a cyber defense forensic analyst, this position involves analyzing digital evidence in reference to criminal investigations, breaches or cyber incidents. They are more involved in the post-evidence collection process, reviewing the data and information, reconstructing events or identifying suspicious behavior or unusual patterns.

Required skills: Experience and knowledge of digital forensic tools, computer networking, proficiency in computer operating systems, understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals, programming languages, attention to detail and critical thinking

Relevant certifications: Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE), GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), Certified Computer Examiner

Average salary: $74,125 with a range of $40,000-$138,000

Digital Forensic Examiner

Though this position is often used interchangeably with digital forensic analyst, there are some distinct differences. A digital forensic examiner is responsible for acquiring, recovering and preserving digital evidence from devices such as cell phones, hard drives, digital cameras, security camera footage, vehicles, cloud technology, laptops and more. 

Required skills: Expertise in operating systems, knowledge of file systems and storage devices, familiarity with chain of custody procedures, ability to acquire digital evidence while preserving the integrity of the data, proficiency in forensic software, knowledge of network forensics, legal knowledge related to digital evidence, attention to detail and good communication.

Relevant certifications: EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), Certified Computer Examiner, Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator, GCFE, CFCE

Average salary: $86,836 with a range of $65,000-$117,000

Incident Manager

An incident manager manages and resolves issues ranging from software glitches to major network outages. Their primary responsibility is to minimize the impact on business activities and restore normal functioning as quickly as possible.

Required skills: Technical knowledge, project management, organization, risk management, communication, problem-solving, decision-making

Relevant certifications: Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification, GIAC Certified Incident Handler, PMP, CISM, CISSP, Six Sigma

Average salary: $87,053 with a range of $63,000-$119,000

Information Security Officer

An information security officer plays a key role in protecting an organization’s information assets. Responsibilities often include developing security policies, conducting risk assessments, overseeing incident response, ensuring compliance, providing security awareness training and designing and implementing certain security measures.

Required skills: Risk management, technical expertise, compliance knowledge, incident response, communication, analytical skills, project management

Relevant certifications: CISSP, CISM, CISA, CEH, Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control, CompTIA+Security

Average salary: $94,926 with a range of $29,500-$170,500

IT Auditor

An IT auditor assists in identifying fraud and uncovering errors in an organization’s financial records, while also assessing and ensuring that IT systems are functioning correctly and efficiently.

Required skills: Knowledge and experience of IT systems, applications and infrastructure; critical thinking, good communication, leadership, creativity

Relevant certifications: Certified Internal Auditor, CISA, CISSP

Average salary: $99,217 with a range of $64,538-$152,532

Junior Security Consultant

A business or organization usually hires a security consultant to assess and test its security measures, providing recommendations to further enhance its security features. A junior security consultant typically assists more experienced consultants, whether it’s conducting research, analyzing incidents or helping to prepare reports.

Required skills: Knowledge of security principles, penetration testing, analytical skills, technical proficiency, good communication, willingness to learn

Relevant certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP, CISM – Associate, CISA, CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)

Average salary: Entry-level security consultants start around $97,435

Junior Security Engineer

A security engineer develops, implements and oversees information security systems within an organization’s IT network. Their specific duties may involve monitoring for abnormal activities, formulating a comprehensive security strategy and installing and configuring software to identify breaches or intrusions. A junior position will often help senior engineers and handle basic tasks such as monitoring security alerts and conducting routine assessments. 

Required skills: Networking knowledge, experience with security tools, proficiency in operating systems, incident response, programming, understanding of security frameworks, risk assessment, data encryption

Relevant certifications: CompTIA Security+, CompTIA CASP+, CEH, CISSP and Azure Security Engineer Associate, Systems Security Certified Practitioner

Average salary: $71,799 with a range of $33,500-$109,500 

Network Administrator

A network administrator is tasked with securing, maintaining and troubleshooting computer networks, and organizations often rely on them to ensure their networks operate smoothly and meet organizational requirements.

Required skills: Knowledge of network types, including Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs) and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs); an understanding of firewalls, access control and other network security components; an understanding of standard servers; communication and teamwork

Relevant certifications: Cisco Certified Network Associate, CompTIA Network+

Average salary: $82,496 with a range of $56,000-$121,350

Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)

Businesses and organizations hire penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, to evaluate security systems and features, identifying vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by malicious actors.

Required skills: Programming languages, data encryption, application security tools, ability to think creatively, good communication, awareness of the latest advances in technology and cybersecurity

Relevant certifications: CEH, CompTIA PenTest+

Average salary: $119,895 with a range of $88,500-$168,500

Security Operations Center Analyst

A security operations center (SOC) is a team of specialists responsible for monitoring an organization’s security operations. This team typically includes SOC analysts, which may consist of both junior and senior-level analysts, depending on the organization and specific responsibilities. A junior analyst will often help monitor security tools and applications.

Required skills: Knowledge of network security, incident response, threat analysis, familiarity with security tools, analytical skills, good communication, attention to detail, willingness to stay up to date on the latest trends and best practices

Relevant certifications: Certified SOC Analyst, CompTIA Security+, CEH, GSEC, SSCP, CySA+, CISSP – Associate, Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals 

Average salary: $91,932 with a range of $78,733-106,519

Security Specialist

A security specialist helps create and implement security measures to keep computer networks and systems safe from potential threats, viruses and other types of malicious activity. 

Required skills: Security knowledge, risk management, incident response, proficiency in programming languages, familiarity with operating systems, network security, security auditing, regulatory compliance, technical proficiency

Relevant certifications: CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH, CISM, CISA, GCEC, CySA+

Average salary: $95,312 with a range of $51,000-$143,500

Systems Administrator

A systems administrator, commonly known as a sysadmin, is responsible for setting up, maintaining and ensuring the dependable operation of a company’s network and computer systems. Besides troubleshooting and resolving network issues, they also update hardware and software to keep everything current.

Required skills: An understanding of LANs, WANs and installing and maintaining computer systems; analytical skills, good communication, ability to multitask, problem-solving,

Relevant certifications: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, Red Hat Certified System Administrator, Cisco Certified Network Associate

Average salary: $88,927 with a range of $41,000-$137,500

Vulnerability Assessor

A vulnerability assessor, also known as a vulnerability analyst, assists businesses and organizations in identifying issues or weaknesses in their networks and software. They then implement the necessary measures to address these problems and enhance system security.

Required skills: An understanding of security concepts, proficiency with vulnerability assessment tools, network and system knowledge, risk assessment, analytical skills, report writing, knowledge of compliance standards and regulations, attention to detail

Relevant certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH, GIAC Certified Vulnerability Assessor, CISSP, CISM

Average salary: $75,259 with a range of $32,500-$125,500

Cybersecurity Roles: Comparison Chart

Need a brief overview of each position? Here’s a quick summary:

Which Cybersecurity Career Is Right for You?

When considering potential careers, it’s important to reflect on your unique skills and interests. For instance, if you’re particularly drawn to detecting and responding to data breaches and security incidents, roles such as incident manager, penetration tester or SOC analyst might be a great fit. Alternatively, if you’re interested in the criminal justice and legal facets of cybersecurity, you might explore positions such as a digital forensic analyst or digital forensic examiner.

Research the credentials and certifications required for each role, as some positions may demand additional knowledge, training and education. This can require a significant time commitment and may also involve considerable costs.

It’s also important to understand your ideal work environment and how that fits into a cybersecurity role. Some positions will require an in-office presence while others may provide the flexibility for remote or hybrid work. Work hours are also a factor since certain cybersecurity roles require unusual hours, especially when it comes to incident response and monitoring.

How to Land an Entry-Level Cybersecurity Job

The first step is to obtain a relevant bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science or information technology.

To boost your chances of landing an entry-level cybersecurity role, familiarize yourself with key cybersecurity tools and learn programming languages such as Python, R and JavaScript. Applying for internships is a great way to put these skills into practice, gain professional experience and expand your network.

Explore certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker, that are relevant to specific roles to enhance your knowledge and credibility.

Lastly, consider furthering your education with a master’s degree in cybersecurity, which can help you get your foot in the door and set you apart from other candidates.

Best Practices for Applying

Are you ready to get started? Keep the following tips in mind:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to the position: Customizing your resume and cover letter is essential, no matter the profession or industry. Avoid the temptation to submit a generic version for every application. Instead, carefully align your materials with the specific requirements outlined in the job posting.
• Show your experience: This includes everything from lab work and personal projects to internships and previous professional roles. Be as specific and detailed as possible.
• Use industry-specific keywords: Look for specific skills, technologies and qualifications in job postings, which will give you a good idea of what the employer is looking for — and what you should emphasize in your application.
• Maintain an updated LinkedIn profile: With more than 1 billion professional profiles across 200 countries, LinkedIn is the premier networking platform. This means there’s a high likelihood that your profile will appear when employers search for you online — and yes, they will look you up. A strong LinkedIn profile enables you to connect with professionals in your field, build your online presence and brand and demonstrate your expertise. These elements can help differentiate you from other candidates.
• Create an online portfolio: An online portfolio is an effective way to showcase any projects, scripts or tools to potential employers. User-friendly platforms such as GitHub, WordPress, Wix or Squarespace can help you craft an easy-to-navigate and visually appealing site to highlight your projects, code samples, articles, blog posts, certifications — essentially anything that demonstrates your skills, expertise and achievements.
• Attend industry events: f you have the time and resources, consider attending cybersecurity conferences, webinars or meetups. Industry events often feature leading experts in the field, which can help you stay on top of the latest trends and news. They are also excellent places to meet other cybersecurity professionals and potential employers.
• Join cybersecurity organizations, forums and communities: Engaging with cybersecurity organizations, forums and online communities is a valuable way to deepen your understanding of the industry and connect with professionals in the field.
• Conduct informational interviews: An informational interview is a low-stakes conversation with a professional in your field of interest. Look for individuals who work in roles or organizations that interest you and reach out for a meeting. Explain who you are and ask if they would be willing to share their experiences over a brief phone call or cup of coffee. Prepare questions ahead of time, treat the conversation like a formal interview and don’t take up too much of their time.
• Prepare, prepare, prepare: When it comes to a formal interview, thorough preparation is key to making a positive impression. Make sure you understand the organization’s mission, values and culture and familiarize yourself with their products and services. Review the job description and prepare examples from your own experience that aligns with the role. Practice responding to common interview questions and, if possible, engage in a mock interview for added preparation.
• Send a thank-you email after your interview: Regardless of whether it was an informational interview or a formal one, sending a thank-you note or email shows appreciation and professionalism.