Cyber threats are not new concepts. Ever since the world became digital, cyber threats have been looming all over the internet, infrastructure, and users. Now, the advanced technologies, easy access to the internet, and a high level of digitalization, cyberattacks have become more common than one can imagine.
In fact, the latest Global Cybersecurity Outlook by WEF highlighted how 71% of smaller organizations have reached a tipping point and are not able to keep themselves protected from evolving and emerging cyber threats. Moreover, 45% of CISOs also believe that the cybersecurity risks because of growing geopolitical tension can disrupt their operations.
Well, organizations are more cautious about cyber resilience now than ever. Therefore, they are seeking skilled cybersecurity professionals for a variety of roles. Cyber security jobs are among the fastest growing jobs currently and also these jobs are evolving rapidly.
So, if you are planning to make a career in cybersecurity, then in this article, we will be exploring the most popular and in-demand cybersecurity job roles that will help you plan your career effectively in 2025.
1. Information Security Analyst
Their role is similar to network and system administrators. As an information security analyst, you will be involved in protecting your organization’s computer networks and systems.
Key responsibilities:
· Monitor networks for malicious traffic or security breaches
· Investigate and report security breaches
· Help secure the computers of other employees
Average salary - $79918
2. Penetration Tester aka Ethical Hackers
Penetration testers also known as ethical hackers are skilled cybersecurity professionals that help their organizations identify vulnerabilities within their security systems. They simulate real-world cyberattacks with proper permission and authorization in a controlled environment to identify weaknesses and eliminate them before real attackers exploit the vulnerabilities.
Key responsibilities:
· Conducting network, application, and system penetration testing
· Documenting their findings
· Recommending security measures
· Keeping updated with the latest cybersecurity tools and techniques for hacking
Average salary - $107,023
3. Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity engineers help their organizations with designing and implementing robust security solutions. They may be involved in configuring firewalls and implementing IDS/IPS, VPNs, and other security tools.
Key responsibilities:
· Designing and implementing security systems
· Configuring and maintaining security tools
· Troubleshooting security issues
Average salary - $83640
4. Security Architect
They design the entire security infrastructure of their organization. Their work starts by assessing the risk and then developing or implementing effective security solutions. Security architects must have a clear understanding of their business goals and must consider regulatory compliance when developing security architectures.
Key responsibilities:
· Conducting an assessment of risks
· Defining security policies and standards
· Designing security solutions for new and existing systems
Average salary - $150152
5. Security consultant
Cybersecurity consultants are intermediate-level cybersecurity specialists equipped with all the essential cybersecurity skills to keep their organizations and their clients protected from various kinds of cyber threats. They help with risk assessment and recommending proper security measures for the overall security of the organization.
Key responsibilities:
· Conducting security audits and assessments
· Offering expert advice for best cybersecurity solutions and practices
· Developing security policies
· Performing vulnerability assessment
· Checking compliance with security regulations and standards.
Average salary - $93346
6. Forensic Analyst
Just like any other crimes, cybercrimes also require forensics to identify the root cause of the attack and plan effective strategies to prevent future attacks. Forensic analysts are responsible for investigating cybercrimes. They collect evidence to be used in legal proceedings.
Key responsibilities:
· Collecting and analyzing digital evidence
· Recovering deleted files and data
· Conducting forensic analysis of hard drives, network traffic, etc.
Average salary - $99180
Note: All
salary figures are annual average salary in the US as per Indeed.
Other popular cybersecurity job roles
Apart from these, there are numerous other cybersecurity job roles that contribute to making an organization’s security system stronger. For your career in cybersecurity, you can also consider roles like:
· Incident responder
· IT auditor
· Security systems administrator
· Cryptography engineer
· Cybersecurity manager
· Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), etc.
The opportunity in this field is huge, provided you have the essential cybersecurity skills and knowledge to grow in this career path.
So, it is recommended that you sharpen your knowledge and skills with top cybersecurity certifications and courses.
Some of the most recognized certification programs include:
· CompTIA Security+
· Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
· Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
· Certified Cybersecurity Consultant (CCC™) by USCSI®
· Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) by ISC2
· Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES)
· Certified Senior Cybersecurity Specialist (CSCS™) by USCSI®, and more
These are highly recognized and credible cybersecurity certification programs to help you master the latest in-demand cybersecurity skills and get started or move ahead in your cybersecurity career.
Conclusion
The world of cybersecurity is evolving at an unprecedented rate and the demand for skilled professionals for new and emerging cybersecurity job roles is increasing rapidly. As we enter the future, and the number and cost of cybercrimes are going to increase, the role of cybersecurity professionals in protecting users, systems, and data will be invaluable. So, learn the latest cybersecurity tools and techniques, enroll in top cybersecurity certifications and courses, validate your expertise, and get started on this growing career path.
