Cybersecurity Careers

Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as companies, Governments and individuals continue to adopt digital solutions to everything from banking to manufacturing to administrative processes and more. According to the World Economic Forum: “The world needs 3.4 million cybersecurity experts to support today’s global economy, but the industry is struggling to fill that gap.”

For a university graduate entering the field of cybersecurity, the entry-level jobs and what they entail can vary based on the specific focus within cybersecurity, the type of organisation you’re joining, and the organisation’s structure. Here are some common entry-level job titles in cybersecurity, and a little information about the kind of work you’ll do:

1. Security Analyst:

Security analysts are responsible for monitoring an organisation’s computer systems for security threats or unauthorised access. They analyse and respond to incidents, implement security measures, and may participate in vulnerability assessments.

2. Information Security Specialist:

Information security specialists work to protect an organisation’s sensitive information. They assist in implementing security policies, conduct risk assessments, and collaborate with other teams to ensure the security of data.

3. Network Security Analyst:

Network security analysts focus on securing an organisation’s computer networks. They monitor network traffic, implement security measures, and work to prevent unauthorised access or cyber-attacks.

4. Security Consultant:

Security consultants may work for cybersecurity firms or consulting companies. They assess the security posture of organisations, provide recommendations for improvement, and help clients implement effective security measures.

5. Incident Responder:

Incident responders investigate and respond to security incidents such as data breaches or cyber-attacks. They play a critical role in analysing the nature of incidents and implementing strategies to mitigate future risks.

6. Cybersecurity Technician/ Technologist:

Cybersecurity technicians and technologists provide technical support in implementing and maintaining security measures. They may assist in configuring and monitoring security tools, as well as troubleshooting security-related issues.

7. Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst:

SOC analysts work in Security Operations Centres, monitoring security alerts and incidents. They investigate and respond to potential security threats, escalating issues as needed.

8. Junior Penetration Tester:

Junior penetration testers, or ethical hackers, assess the security of systems by attempting to exploit vulnerabilities. They help identify weaknesses in security measures to improve overall defences.

9. Security Compliance Analyst:

Security compliance analysts focus on ensuring that an organisation complies with relevant cybersecurity regulations and standards. They assist in creating and implementing security policies and procedures.

10. IT Security Administrator:

IT security administrators manage and administer security measures within an organisation’s IT infrastructure. They may be responsible for configuring and maintaining security systems and tools.

These titles represent a starting point, and the specific responsibilities can vary based on the organisation’s needs and the graduate’s skills and interests. The entry requirements for these types of roles vary widely, and it’s best to investigate the IT and Computer Science related programmes at various Higher Education Institutions to find the best for you.

It’s important for entry-level professionals to gain practical experience, pursue software certifications, and continue learning to advance their careers in cybersecurity.