The field of security analytics encompasses many different job roles. You might work as a service threat analyst and respond to suspicious activities for a company. Or, you might work as a systems administrator, a job that requires you to monitor all activities within a certain network.
Security analysts implement security measures, write incident reports, and issue security clearances. Entry-level security analyst jobs can be your stepping stone to a long, fruitful career in information technology. Keep reading to learn about job titles you can strive for as you enter this field.
What Is Security Analytics and Why Is It Important?
Security analytics is the use of different software, methods, and algorithms to defend an IT network against cyber attacks. The industry protects sensitive data against threats of cyber attacks. Security analytics encompasses security systems that monitor for any possible security risks occurring within a company’s network.
These experts set security standards and build strong networks to prevent security breaches.
This branch of information technology is important because a company’s digital assets must be protected at all costs. Security problems must be mitigated and security analysts provide the measures to ensure a high level of protection.
What Is the Job Outlook for Security Analysts?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the career and employment growth of security analysts is expected to increase by 33 percent from 2020-2030. If you’re interested in working in cyber security, it’s a great time to jump into the industry.
Top Reasons to Pursue a Career in Security Analytics
- In-demand career. With healthy employment growth on the horizon, you’re going to have a wide selection of job opportunities as a security specialist.
- Great career growth. A career path in security analytics can lead to lucrative promotions within the industry or even good jobs in other tech-related fields.
- Workplace flexibility. A job as a security analyst provides you with different workplace options like working from home or in the office. A wide array of companies will be interested in your skill set, so you can choose one that best fits your interests or goals.
- High Salaries. Expect a good annual wage in the industry, especially after you have developed a set of specialized skills and advanced certifications.
- Valued Work. As a security analyst, you’re in charge of guarding important virtual assets or data for a company or for a group of people.
What Does an Entry-Level Security Analyst Do?
An entry-level security analysts’ responsibilities include creating incident reports for any suspicious activity, checking for security breaches by using antivirus software, and performing frequent risk management and penetration testing of a company’s information network. They also may check the integrity of the data being gathered from a company’s customer base.
Types of Entry-Level Security Analyst Roles
Systems Applications and Products (SAP) Security
SAP security is the system that protects a company’s digital assets from any form of unauthorized access or use. SAP security specialists use digital forensics to monitor any weak points in the system and to prevent attacks from happening.
Regular audits of systems are imperative to assess any potential threats and prevent them. Furthermore, due to the data’s sensitivity and confidentiality, SAP security specialists are tasked with guarding the integrity of the data.
Regulatory Compliance
A cyber security analyst working in this specialization will need to comply with government-legislated data privacy laws. You will perform risk analysis regularly to ensure maximum conformity to prevent legal issues.
Security compliance analysts typically check a company’s network and data-gathering procedures and verify them in accordance with data privacy laws. These specific requirements are enforced by the government and companies need cyber security analysts to ensure they’re abiding by rules and regulations.
Web Security Maintenance
Companies must maintain website security to avoid any form of malware or hacks. Preventative security operations are usually conducted on a regular basis to mitigate any risks. Cyber security analysts will routinely perform assessments to maintain website integrity.
Additionally, penetration testers are tasked with attempting to hack websites to test vulnerabilities. This is called ethical hacking, as hackers provide solutions once they find any weak points or security issues.
Security Risk Management
Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing are the processes used in security risk management. Security specialists label compromised data in metrics whether it was lost, damaged, or taken. Likewise, the security system must be in-line with not only the standards of the company but also the government.
Common Responsibilities of Entry-Level Security Analyst Jobs
- Network Security
- Ethical Hacking/Penetration Tests
- Security Protocols
- Systems Design
- Security Clearances
How Much Do Entry-Level Security Analytics Jobs Pay?
The median salary of an entry-level position as a security analyst in the cyber industry is $86,256, according to Glassdoor. Analyst salaries are above average and the position offers good growth potential.
A cyber security career is a lucrative venture that you can explore as long as you have relevant work experience in any computer-related field and the technical aptitude to pursue this career track. Also, an entry-level role can provide a lot of pathways to managerial roles and specialized work.
Entry-Level Security Analyst Jobs That Pay the Most: Overview
| Job | Average Salary | Min. Education/ Training | Associated Mid and Senior Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Engineer | $95,402 | Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or related field | Cyber Security Engineer, Information Technology Consultant |
| Penetration Tester | $88,040 | Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Information Technology, or related field | Information Security Manager, Network Director |
| Incident Responder | $87,295 | Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field. | Information Security Manager, Chief Information Officer |
| Cyber Security Analyst | $76,790 | Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security, Information Technology, or related field | Cyber Security Engineer, Security Architect |
| Network Engineer | $75,818 | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field | Information Technology Manager, Senior Network Engineer |
| Information Security Analyst | $73,189 | Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or related field | Information Security Manager, Chief Information Security Officer |
| Compliance Officer | $71,161 | Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Information Technology, or related field | Information Technology Manager, Chief Information Officer |
| Security Analyst | $69,710 | Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security, Information Technology, or related field | Cyber Security Engineer, Security Architect |
| Privacy Analyst | $67,886 | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Cyber Security, or related field | Information Security Manager, Chief Information Security Officer |
| Computer Network Analyst | $59,785 | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field | Cyber Security Engineer, Senior Network Engineer |
Best Entry-Level Security Analytics Jobs: A Closer Look
Security Engineer
Security engineers are in charge of keeping sensitive information safe and secure. On a daily basis, they design different types of security tools that aid in a company’s data protection. Moreover, they solve relevant business problems regarding the safety of a company’s data.
Security Engineer Responsibilities
- Develop various types of security systems to prevent attack vectors such as malware
- Supervise data handling and gathering techniques to ensure efficiency and effectiveness
- Prevent security breaches by safeguarding virtual assets and company data
Penetration Tester
Penetration testers perform simulated attacks on specific systems to find any loopholes. They will also often be in charge of developing reports for assessments on the integrity of a data network to improve security policies.
Penetration Tester Responsibilities
- Identify weak points in different active networks through simulated attacks
- Document the actions that happened during the simulated attack to create a detailed report
- Run numerous tests and assessments to seek any flaws in the active data system
Incident Responder
Incident responders are responsible for overseeing every facet of a network system in a company. Daily work usually involves developing systems for maximum efficiency and finding quick and effective solutions when errors occur.
Incident Responder Responsibilities
- Guarantee that IT processes are seamless and efficient by running incident response processes
- Monitor different data systems and information structures to ensure smooth operations
- Provide overall consistency in all networks and systems used by the company
Cyber Security Analyst
Cyber security analysts use their analytic and critical thinking skills to solve complex problems regarding the cyber security of a company. The day-to-day operations of a cyber security analyst typically include constructing safety measures and protocols to protect the networks and infrastructures.
Cyber Security Analyst Responsibilities
- Develop IT infrastructures to secure confidential data and information
- Understand a company’s complex network and find areas for improvements
- Identify possible internal and external threats and create relevant safety measures
Network Engineer
Network engineers manage a computer network or system to ensure that nothing goes wrong. Typically they install and establish networks for companies and fine-tune them when needed. Furthermore, they monitor the overall stability of computer networks to prevent any problems.
Network Engineer Responsibilities
- Maintain computer networks and their related hardware
- Design the layout to improve computer networks
- Diagnose and troubleshoot any problem that involves the hardware and software of computer networks.
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts are responsible for the safekeeping of a company or client’s data. They perform tests and assessments on the computer system and install the right security software to match a company’s needs.
Information Security Analyst Responsibilities
- Safeguard important and confidential data from possible attacks or hacks
- Prepare disaster recovery options in case a breach has occurred
- Monitor systems on a daily basis
Compliance Officer
Compliance officers, or security compliance analysts, are tasked with checking data streams and making sure they’re in line with government protocols. Usually, compliance officers are called before security auditors perform audits to confirm the adherence of the systems to cyber security laws.
Compliance Officer
- Help companies prepare their computer systems to adhere to government regulations
- Implement risk assessment processes for any breaches or compromises
- Achieve regulatory compliance through a thorough inspection of computer systems
Security Analyst
Security analysts usually work with other security professionals to build a top-notch security system for a company. Daily work includes manual inspection of computer networks, collaborating with other security specialists, and troubleshooting any network errors.
Security Analyst Responsibilities
- Detect any weaknesses in a computer system and provide solutions
- Install security software to encrypt data for further protection
- Develop various types of security protocols and safety measures
Privacy Analyst
Privacy analysts deal with the protection and safekeeping of important data. They develop privacy protocols for the proper handling of data and virtual assets. Also, they manage staff on how to properly manage data and employ proper privacy protection.
Privacy Analyst Responsibilities
- Protect company data through the proper implementation of security software
- Adhere to data privacy laws as well as privacy requirements of the company
- Focus on specific projects targeting privacy concerns as the main topic
Computer Network Analyst
Computer network analysts are tasked with installing proper hardware and software for the seamless use of the computer network. Daily work usually involves troubleshooting any issues that arise, meeting specific network requirements, and being updated on the latest computer network technology advances.
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Computer Network Analyst Responsibilities
- Provide support and maintenance software and hardware based on the company’s needs
- Design network systems and evaluate their effectiveness
- Give technical advice and support in using the computer systems and networks
What Types of Companies Hire Entry-Level Security Analysts?
Companies that hire entry-level security analysts typically exist in the financial and tech sectors. These types of companies often handle large amounts of data and they need people to regularly monitor and protect it.
Career Progression: Mid and Senior-Level Security Analytics Roles
Mid-Level Security Analysts Jobs
Information Security Manager
- Average salary: $118,881
- Related entry-level roles: Penetration Tester, Incident Responder
- Responsibilities: Database protection, disaster recovery, developing security standards
Cyber Security Engineer
- Average salary: $97,805
- Related entry-level roles: Security Engineer, Cyber Security Analyst
- Responsibilities: Team collaboration, network building, creating security systems
Information Technology Consultant
- Average salary: $80,609
- Related entry-level roles: Information Security Analyst, Security Engineer
- Responsibilities: Implement new technological solutions, assist with any IT problems, construct IT systems
Information Technology Manager
- Average salary: $89,080
- Related entry-level roles: Network Engineer, Compliance Officer
- Responsibilities: Maintain company data and privacy policies, oversee IT team, develop necessary software upgrades
Information Security Officer
- Average salary: $93,804
- Related entry-level roles: Privacy Analyst, Information Security Analyst
- Responsibilities: Implement new policies to protect company data, inspect for any vulnerabilities within the computer system
Senior Security Analysts Jobs
Senior Network Engineer
- Average salary: $102,808
- Related entry-level roles: Network Engineer, Computer Network Analyst
- Responsibilities: Construct computer networks, determine and fix any outstanding concerns
Security Architect
- Average salary: $126,019
- Related entry-level roles: Cyber Security Analyst, Security Engineer
- Responsibilities: Design preventative measures for potential threats, lead an entry-level security team
Chief Information Officer
- Average salary: $168,280
- Related entry-level roles: Incident Responder, Compliance Officer
- Responsibilities: Project management, IT team collaboration
Network Director
- Average salary: $148,353
- Related entry-level roles: Penetration Tester, Network Engineer
- Responsibilities: Apply and adhere to government requirements, build effective and strong computer networks
Chief Information Security Officer
- Average salary: $166,940
- Related entry-level roles: Privacy Analyst, Information Security Analyst
- Responsibilities: Provide direction with regards to the cyber security of the company
How to Get a Job in Security Analytics
To get a job in security analytics you need the right job experience, college degree, soft skills, and technical skills. Communication skills are a requirement if you will need to work effectively on a team. Experience with programming languages is necessary. You’ll also need specialized skills like relevant experience in cyber security, systems design, and penetration testing.
Required Skills for an Entry-Level Security Analytics Job
- Critical Thinking: Cyber security positions involve a high-level analysis of a complex set of code.
- Ethical Hacking: A security analyst must understand how hackers get into a system in order for them to build protection from these attacks.
- Script Building: Experience with programming languages is a must because analysts have to understand threats and network breaches.
- Networking: Exposure to programming and different types of networks is a key skill for security analysts.
- Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills are needed to clearly explain work to superiors and others who aren’t at your experience level.
Top Cyber Security Certifications for Entry-Level Security Analytics
- GIAC Certified Incident Handler: This certification confirms your ability to identify and react to different security incidents using a wide variety of cyber security skills.
- GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst: This certification is to prove that you have the analytical skills to conduct incident investigations and fix internal and external threats.
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker: This is a certification program that tackles the latest hacking techniques and defensive mechanisms.
- CompTIA Network+: This certification provides knowledge in managing IT infrastructure as well as troubleshooting and handling computer networks.
- GIAC Information Security Fundamentals: This credential provides you with knowledge in security software and cyber security technologies.
Can You Get an Entry-Level Security Analytics Job with a Coding Bootcamp?
Yes, you can get an entry-level security analytics job with a coding bootcamp. You can try out cyber security bootcamps to sharpen your knowledge and further specialize in the field. Also, search for the best cyber security practices, guidelines, and resources to feed your mind with the necessary information you need to start a career in this fast-growing industry.
Top Security Analytics Bootcamps
Best Resources for Security Analytics
SANS Institute
The SANS Institute specializes in cyber security training programs that target specific cyber security skills. They offer courses, training, certifications, and community programs that’ll help you in your journey to becoming a security analyst.
National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS)
NICCS is an online resource hub for cyber security training, information, and proper education. They provide the relevant experience and programs that you need to become an excellent security analyst.
Stackoverflow
Stackoverflow is an online public platform for everyone who wants to learn to code. They have a section for cyber security where real professionals offer career advice, knowledge, and tips for everyone who’s interested.
Is a Career in Security Analytics for You?
Yes, if you’re passionate about keeping data secure and safe from hackers, then a career in security analytics is for you. The career offers work flexibility and gives you a lot of options to work in different industries. It also provides you with high compensation, a great job outlook, and substantial career growth opportunities.
Entry-Level Security Analytics Jobs FAQs
Is Being a Security Analyst Hard?
Yes, being a security analyst is hard. The job may be lucrative but it can be tiring and demanding. Solving problems under stress can take a lot of mental capacity. Take this into account as you pursue a career in cyber security.
Is a Security Analyst a Good Job?
Yes, being a security analyst is a good and satisfying job. The work-life balance is adequate and these jobs come with high salaries. Bear in mind that this job can be stressful at times and that can take a toll on your overall health.
What Makes a Good Security Analyst?
Be creative with the solutions you offer. Have a great sense of communication to increase camaraderie between colleagues, be analytical, and pay attention to details. Lastly, you need to have the necessary technical skills to excel at being a security analyst.
What Is the Difference Between Security Analyst and Data Analyst?
Security analysts, as the name suggests, protect data from unwanted events like hacks or breaches. On the other hand, data analysts are the people who process and analyze the data to turn it into meaningful information.
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