Do you know the top trending entry-level cybersecurity jobs for beginners in 2023? Find out below.

In the dynamic realm of cybersecurity, the demand for skilled professionals has reached unprecedented heights.

As of 2021, the industry grappled with a staggering 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity roles, a number that continues to surge. The clarion call for cybersecurity experts echoes across the digital landscape, creating a landscape of boundless opportunities.

Yet, amidst this bustling demand, there lies a pivotal question for those embarking on their cybersecurity journey: how to select the perfect entry-level cybersecurity job.

This challenge is not to be taken lightly, for within the cybersecurity universe, a multitude of career paths await. Some promise lucrative rewards, while others beckon those with nerves of steel.

The prospect of late-night vigilance and the pressure of safeguarding digital fortresses can be daunting. Should you specialize in digital forensics, honing your skills in the aftermath of cyber-attacks?

Or perhaps your calling is to maintain the security of networks and systems, donning the mantle of a system administrator? Alternatively, you might feel drawn to cover a broader spectrum of responsibilities.

What would your role be as a cybersecurity expert?

Your primary mission is to safeguard the precious digital territories of organizations from the ever-present threat of hackers and cybercriminals. This formidable task involves a multifaceted approach that blends technical prowess, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to security.

Understanding Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities

Cybersecurity specialists begin their mission by immersing themselves in the world of cyber threats and vulnerabilities. They meticulously study the tactics and techniques employed by malicious actors, gaining deep insights into the vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited. This keen awareness serves as the foundation upon which they build their defensive strategies.

Building a Digital Fortress

One of the hallmark responsibilities of a cybersecurity expert is the construction of a digital fortress – an intricate network infrastructure fortified to repel attacks. This entails designing and implementing a robust cybersecurity architecture that acts as a formidable barrier against external threats. From firewalls to intrusion detection systems, every component is strategically positioned to ensure the utmost protection.

Instituting Security Protocols

In addition to fortifying digital defenses, cybersecurity professionals institute stringent security protocols. These protocols encompass a wide array of measures, from complex password policies to access control mechanisms. They leave no stone unturned when it comes to safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring that only authorized personnel can access critical systems.

System Administration and Security Procedures

A cybersecurity expert wears many hats, including that of a system administrator. They possess an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of system administration, enabling them to maintain and optimize network operations. This dual expertise empowers them to not only secure systems but also to ensure their efficient functionality.

Consulting and In-House Analysis

Cybersecurity specialists often serve as both consulting security experts and in-house analysts. As consultants, they provide invaluable insights and recommendations to organizations seeking to bolster their security posture. In an in-house capacity, they continuously monitor and assess the security landscape, promptly responding to any emerging threats.

The role of a cybersecurity expert is a multifaceted one, demanding a combination of technical acumen, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding digital assets.

How to Get an Entry-Level Cyber Security Job

Let’s break down the initial steps to acquiring an entry-level cybersecurity job.

Assess Your Skill Set

The first and crucial step on your journey to an entry-level cybersecurity job is a self-assessment of your current skill set. This evaluation encompasses not only technical skills but also soft skills that are highly valued in the cybersecurity field.

These soft skills include effective communication, adaptability, conflict resolution, time management, and organizational abilities. Remember that a well-rounded cybersecurity professional excels not only in technical tasks but also in collaborating with teams and efficiently managing resources.

Build a Comprehensive Resume

When crafting your resume, make sure to highlight both your technical and soft skills. Employers in the cybersecurity industry seek candidates who can not only navigate the intricacies of cybersecurity but also communicate effectively, adapt to evolving threats, and manage their time and resources efficiently. Your resume should reflect your diverse skill set and showcase your readiness for a cybersecurity role.

Consider Additional Training

If you find gaps in your skill set or require further training, enrolling in a cybersecurity boot camp can be a highly effective option. Boot camps offer intensive, real-world, project-based learning experiences that focus on in-demand skills.

Completing projects during these programs not only reinforces your knowledge but also builds a professional portfolio that you can present to potential employers. Moreover, the relatively short duration of boot camps (typically 3 to 6 months) and their cost-effectiveness compared to traditional degree programs make them an appealing choice for many learners.

Explore Traditional Degree Programs

For those with the time and financial resources, pursuing a traditional degree in computer science with a specialization or minor in cybersecurity can be a valuable investment.

These degree programs not only cover cybersecurity theory and practice but also provide opportunities to explore a wide range of interests within the field of computer science. This option allows for a more comprehensive education, although it may take longer to complete than a boot camp.

Independent Study

Some learners opt for independent study as a flexible educational avenue. This approach allows you to set your own pace and focus on specific skills of interest.

However, be aware that some employers may require additional certifications from independent learners to validate their training and skill set. Independent study can be an excellent choice for those who have specific career goals and wish to tailor their learning accordingly.

Top 7 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs for beginners

Below are list of the top 7 entry-level cybersecurity jobs for beginners.

Information Cyber Security Analyst

The role of an Information Cyber Security Analyst involves monitoring systems for potential network breaches and implementing protective measures, such as firewalls, while meticulously documenting security incidents. This entry-level cybersecurity job offers opportunities across various industries, making it a versatile choice.

Salary and Career Progression

The median salary for an Information Security Analyst is approximately $102,600, though entry-level positions may offer lower initial compensation. However, this role can serve as a stepping stone to more specialized security positions.

Qualifications and Essential Skills

To secure an entry-level position in information security analysis, candidates typically require at least a four-year degree in software engineering or IT. Essential skills include setting up security platforms, patching vulnerabilities across different operating systems, configuring network monitoring tools, promptly responding to threats, and conducting routine maintenance tasks.

Certifications and Prerequisites

Advantageous certifications for aspiring information security analysts include CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker. These certifications enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Career Prospects

Information security analysts rank highly in the technology job market, with significant growth projected. US News places them second on its list of best technology jobs, and the US Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 35% job growth rate between 2021 and 2031.

System Administrator

System Administrators are responsible for managing both software and hardware components within an organization’s workstations. Their duties encompass configuring these systems to align with project requirements and swiftly addressing any technical issues that may arise.

Salary

System Administrators typically earn an average salary of approximately $76,861.

Qualifications and Skills

Most companies seek candidates with a degree in IT or a related field for entry-level cybersecurity jobs for beginners in system administration. While a postgraduate degree is not mandatory, pursuing a master’s in information technology or computer science can provide a competitive advantage in the job market. Proficiency in various operating systems, including Linux and Microsoft, is essential. System Administrators must adeptly set up individual and networked systems, manage IT infrastructure for networks, and troubleshoot interruptions.

Proficiency in scripting languages is a crucial skill for System Administrators, enabling task automation and the customization of operating system environments.

Certifications and Additional Skills

Relevant certifications, such as the Red Hat Certified Engineer and Cisco Certified Network Associate, can enhance your qualifications, particularly if you intend to specialize in specific areas of system administration. A strong grasp of technical skills is also invaluable.

Career Prospects

In the United States, there were over 333,000 network and computer systems administrator jobs available in 2021, with a projected growth rate of 3% between 2021 and 2031.

Junior Cryptanalyst

Junior Cryptanalysts specialize in the analysis of code bases and encryption systems, with the aim of revealing protected information or identifying security vulnerabilities.

Salary

In the United States, the average salary for Junior Cryptanalysts is around $80,171.

Qualifications and Skills

To qualify for a role as a Junior Cryptanalyst, candidates typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. A background in mathematics can also serve as a solid foundation in this domain.

Essential Skills

Cryptanalysts work with sensitive data across various sectors, including law enforcement, government, finance, and academia. Therefore, they must excel in sourcing, handling, and processing diverse data types. Their responsibilities often involve investigating encrypted materials, necessitating a deep understanding of various encryption techniques and potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

Certifications and Prerequisites

For individuals aspiring to work in this field, certifications such as the EC-Council Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES) and CompTIA PenTest+ can significantly bolster their qualifications.

Career Prospects

Cryptanalysts play a specialized role within the cybersecurity realm, and their expertise is in demand. However, it’s worth noting that some positions in this field may require security clearances. Websites like clearancejobs.com post job openings, but access to these positions often mandates security clearance.

Junior Forensic Analyst

Junior Forensic Analysts are cybersecurity professionals who specialize in solving cybercrime cases through data analysis and various investigative techniques. They aim to identify the sources of cyber incidents and develop proactive measures to prevent them.

Salary

In the United States, the median annual salary for Junior Forensic Analysts is approximately $67,640.

Qualifications and Skills

To qualify for a position as a Junior Forensic Analyst, candidates typically need a degree in information technology. Enhancing one’s qualifications with a diploma or master’s degree in cybersecurity can significantly improve job prospects. Strong technical skills are advantageous in this field.

Essential Skills

Forensic analysts should possess in-depth knowledge of digital storage technologies across different operating systems. Additionally, they require a profound understanding of storage architectures and file systems management. Their investigative toolkit often includes ethical hacking techniques and data analysis methods.

Certifications and Prerequisites

Aspiring Forensic Analysts can gain valuable skills through certifications like the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) and those offered by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS).

Career Prospects

The field of forensic analysis is experiencing growth within the cybersecurity domain. On platforms like LinkedIn, there are over 1,800 job listings related to “digital forensics,” encompassing roles such as digital media forensics analyst, forensic imaging specialist, and cyber intel analyst.

Penetration Tester

A Penetration Tester, often referred to as an ethical hacker, assumes the role of a mock attacker to proactively assess and strengthen an organization’s cybersecurity defenses. These cybersecurity professionals employ the same tools and tactics used by malicious hackers to infiltrate vulnerable digital systems, with the goal of identifying weaknesses that could be exploited for cybercrimes like viruses or information theft.

Roles and Responsibilities

Before launching simulated cyberattacks, penetration testers conduct comprehensive security evaluations across various domains, including applications, network devices, and cloud systems. They also scrutinize code for potential security vulnerabilities. Subsequently, they design and simulate reverse-engineering attacks, explore malware and spam threats, and meticulously document security and compliance issues, among other approaches.

Requirements and Skills

To excel in this role, candidates must possess a deep understanding of hacker behavior and tools. Key requirements and skills include:

• Communication Skills: Effectively communicating findings to both the team and executive leadership is essential.
• Diligence: A commitment to ongoing testing, recreating hacker attacks, and staying current with evolving security trends.
• Technical Proficiency: Mastery of a range of technical tools and tactics used in penetration testing.

The role of a Penetration Tester extends beyond merely delivering reports; it involves continuous assessment and vigilance to ensure an organization’s defenses remain resilient against real-world cyber threats.

Salary for Junior Penetration Testers

Junior Penetration Testers command an average annual salary of approximately $87,117.

Security Auditor

Security auditors is another entry in the top entry-level Cybersecurity jobs for beginners in 2023. Security Auditors play a pivotal role in evaluating an organization’s overall cybersecurity infrastructure. They provide stakeholders with insights into the audit process and generate reports that offer recommendations for enhancing the security of information systems.

Salary

In the United States, Security Auditors earn an average annual salary of approximately $117,000.

Qualifications and Skills

To pursue a career as a Security Auditor, a bachelor’s degree in computer science or IT is typically required. Key skills for this role include:

• Comprehensive Knowledge: An in-depth understanding of operating systems, networks, databases, and cloud computing.
• Audit Proficiency: Proficiency in audit planning and executing security audits.

Certifications and Prerequisites

Security Auditors often pursue the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification, which is widely recognized in the field.

Career Prospects

Security Auditing is among the most lucrative subsets of cybersecurity, with the potential for annual salaries reaching up to $172,000. This field offers promising career prospects for individuals seeking to assess and enhance an organization’s cybersecurity posture.

Digital Forensic Investigator

A Digital Forensic Investigator serves as a cyber detective and IT professional, specializing in collecting and analyzing information from computers and storage devices to support the prosecution of cybercrime cases. Their role involves reviewing digital devices, such as computers and phones, and meticulously examining the data retrieved to construct a compelling case.

Daily Tasks

Depending on the industry, daily tasks in computer forensics jobs can encompass the retrieval and collection of hardware, software, and applications for analyzing events leading to a cyber breach. It’s essential to maintain the chain of custody for all digital evidence and produce technical reports summarizing findings.

Skills and Qualities

In addition to highly technical skills, Digital Forensic Investigators must possess strong interpersonal skills, as they collaborate with law enforcement, lawyers, and corporate resources. These interpersonal abilities, coupled with a composed and pragmatic demeanor, can be invaluable when called upon to testify in court.

Industry Fit

While individuals with these skills can find opportunities in various industries, their talent for uncovering and presenting digital evidence aligns well with computer forensics jobs in law enforcement agencies.

Salary for Digital Forensic Investigator

The average hourly pay for a Digital Forensic Investigator in the United States in 2023 stands at $38.96 per hour.

IT Support Specialist

Last on our list of the top entry-level Cybersecurity jobs for beginners is the IT Support specialist. IT Support Specialists play a vital role in addressing customer-reported incidents and resolving technical issues related to hardware devices and software installations.

Salary

IT Support Specialists typically earn an average annual salary of approximately $53,221.

Qualifications and Skills

To secure a position as an IT Support Specialist, an associate’s degree is often sufficient. However, some on-the-job training may be necessary before taking on live projects.

Essential Skills

Key skills for IT Support Specialists include:

• Technical Proficiency: A solid foundation in technical knowledge, including software installation and configuration, basic hardware understanding, and the ability to set up and operate devices such as printers and scanners.
• Problem-Solving: Effective problem-solving skills are essential in diagnosing and resolving technical issues.
• Communication: Strong communication skills are crucial, as IT Support Specialists frequently interact with customers to address their concerns and build rapport.

Prerequisites

IT Support Specialists typically need to become proficient in customer support software, such as FreshDesk or SysAid, as required by their respective companies.

Career Prospects

The job market for IT Support Specialists is expected to grow at a rate of 6% between 2021 and 2031, leading to the creation of approximately 56,000 new jobs.

Conclusion

In 2023, the demand for entry-level cybersecurity jobs and professionals remains high, with numerous opportunities available in various roles. From Information Security Analysts to Digital Forensic Investigators, each position offers a unique pathway into the cybersecurity field.

Key considerations include assessing your skills, both technical and soft, and pursuing relevant education or certifications. Salaries vary across roles, with Security Auditors at the high end and IT Support Specialists at the entry level.

In a rapidly evolving field, cybersecurity offers a promising career path for those ready to protect digital spaces and combat cyber threats. Choose a role that aligns with your interests and skills, and embark on your journey in this dynamic and critical industry.