Cybersecurity Jobs: From Entry-Level to Advanced Roles

Are you considering a career in cybersecurity? It’s one of the fastest-growing fields, with high demand and rewarding opportunities. According to recent reports, the global cybersecurity market is expected to reach $403 billion by 2027, and India alone will need over 1.5 million cybersecurity professionals in the coming years.

Here’s why cybersecurity is a great choice:

• Companies worldwide are hiring skilled professionals to protect their systems.
• Jobs range from beginner positions like Cybersecurity Analyst to advanced roles like Security Architect or CISO.
• Entry-level salaries in India start around ₹4–6 LPA, while advanced roles can earn over ₹50 LPA.

If you’re wondering where to start or which role suits you best, this blog will cover 10 popular cybersecurity jobs and how you can prepare for them. 

Let’s get started!

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10 Cybersecurity Jobs: Entry-Level to Advanced Roles

Cybersecurity offers a variety of career paths, ranging from beginner to advanced roles. Each role is important in protecting data, systems, and networks. Below is a detailed breakdown:

Entry-Level Roles

1. Cybersecurity Analyst

• What They Do: Monitor and analyze an organization’s systems to identify vulnerabilities and suspicious activity.
• Example Task: Use tools like SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) to detect unusual login attempts and report potential breaches.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Monitor systems and networks for threats.
  • Analyze security reports and logs.
  • Recommend and implement basic security measures.
• Skills Needed: Basic networking, knowledge of security tools, and an understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals.

2. Network Security Administrator

• What They Do: Manage and secure an organization’s network infrastructure, ensuring no unauthorized access.
• Example Task: Configure firewalls and monitor network traffic for unusual patterns.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Maintain network security protocols.
  • Configure and update network devices like routers and switches.
  • Monitor and troubleshoot network issues.
• Skills Needed: Networking knowledge, understanding of protocols like TCP/IP, and experience with tools like Wireshark.

3. IT Security Specialist

• What They Do: Implement security measures, update systems, and respond to minor security incidents.
• Example Task: Ensure all company devices have updated antivirus software and security patches.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Manage endpoint security tools.
  • Conduct vulnerability scans.
  • Provide support during minor security incidents.
• Skills Needed: Familiarity with security software and the ability to troubleshoot basic issues.

Mid-Level Roles

4. Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)

• What They Do: Conduct simulated cyberattacks to find system vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them.
• Example Task: Test the security of an e-commerce website by trying to access restricted areas without proper credentials.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform vulnerability assessments.
  • Use tools like Metasploit and Burp Suite to simulate attacks.
  • Create reports on findings and suggest fixes.
• Skills Needed: Expertise in ethical hacking, knowledge of coding, and experience with penetration testing tools.

5. Security Engineer

• What They Do: Develop and maintain secure systems, tools, and processes.
• Example Task: Build a secure user authentication system for an app.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Design security protocols for applications and networks.
  • Ensure systems are compliant with security standards.
  • Work with development teams to integrate security into applications.
• Skills Needed: Strong coding abilities, understanding of encryption, and experience with security frameworks.

6. Incident Response Specialist

• What They Do: Handle security breaches, contain damage, and recover systems after an attack.
• Example Task: Respond to a ransomware attack by isolating affected systems and restoring backups.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Investigate and contain security incidents.
  • Analyze logs to understand the cause of a breach.
  • Work with teams to improve defenses based on incidents.
• Skills Needed: Quick decision-making, expertise in forensic tools, and a strong understanding of security protocols.

Advanced Roles

7. Security Architect

• What They Do: Design and implement robust security infrastructures to protect an organization’s systems and data.
• Example Task: Develop a multi-layered security system to protect sensitive customer data in a financial institution.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Create and implement security frameworks.
  • Conduct regular security assessments.
  • Work with teams to ensure security measures align with business goals.
• Skills Needed: Advanced knowledge of security architecture, threat modeling, and experience with compliance standards like GDPR.

8. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

• What They Do: Lead an organization’s cybersecurity strategy and manage security teams.
• Example Task: Develop policies to protect intellectual property and oversee departmental implementation.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Define and execute the company’s security strategy.
  • Manage security budgets and teams.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Skills Needed: Leadership, strategic planning, and extensive experience in cybersecurity management.

9. Threat Intelligence Analyst

• What They Do: Analyze and predict cyber threats to prevent attacks.
• Example Task: Research a new malware trend and advise the organization on preventive measures.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Monitor and study emerging threats.
  • Analyze attack patterns and trends.
  • Share findings with security teams to improve defenses.
• Skills Needed: Analytical skills, knowledge of threat detection tools, and understanding of global cybersecurity trends.

10. Cloud Security Consultant

• What They Do: Ensure cloud environments are secure, protecting data stored on platforms like AWS or Azure.
• Example Task: Review an organization’s AWS setup to ensure data is encrypted and access is restricted.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Identify and fix vulnerabilities in cloud systems.
  • Create policies for secure data storage and access.
  • Ensure compliance with cloud security standards.
• Skills Needed: Experience with cloud platforms, understanding of cloud-specific security threats, and strong knowledge of data encryption.

Cybersecurity Career Path: How to Get Started

Starting a career in cybersecurity is achievable if you follow these steps and practice consistently. Here’s how you can get started, with examples to guide you:

1. Gain Foundational Knowledge
   • Start with beginner-friendly certifications like CompTIA Security+, which covers basic cybersecurity principles. For example, you’ll learn about securing networks, identifying threats, and managing risks.
   • Enroll in online courses like those offered by upGrad on topics like network security or ethical hacking.
2. Work on Practical Projects or Simulations
   • Practice by setting up a secure Wi-Fi network at home or using tools like Wireshark to monitor and analyze network traffic.
   • Use online platforms like Hack The Box or TryHackMe to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges in a controlled environment. For instance, practice detecting malware in a virtual lab.
3. Apply for Entry-Level Roles
   • Start with roles like IT Support, where you can learn how to manage systems and troubleshoot security issues. For example, you might handle tasks like securing user accounts or responding to minor security alerts.
   • Entry-level positions like Junior Security Analyst often involve monitoring systems for suspicious activity and ensuring compliance with basic security standards.
4. Earn Advanced Certifications
   • After gaining experience, pursue certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) to focus on penetration testing, or Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) for roles in cloud security.
   • For example, a CEH certification can prepare you for ethical hacking roles where you’ll test a company’s defenses to find vulnerabilities.
5. Network and Join Cybersecurity Communities
   • Engage in groups or mentorship programs. For instance, connect with a cybersecurity mentor to get advice on career growth and interview preparation.

Example Pathway

• Start with CompTIA Security+ certification.
• Work on projects using TryHackMe to simulate attacks and defenses.
• Land an IT Support role to gain real-world experience.
• Earn a CEH certification to specialize in ethical hacking.
• Join a professional group like OWASP to learn and network.

Salary Expectations for Cybersecurity Jobs

Cybersecurity offers competitive salaries, which increase with experience and specialization. Here’s a breakdown of salary ranges for various roles:

Key Insights

• Entry-level roles like Cybersecurity Analyst or IT Security Specialist offer a great start with salaries ranging from ₹3–7 LPA.
• Mid-level roles such as Penetration Tester or Security Engineer see a significant jump, often reaching ₹10–12 LPA.
• Advanced roles like Security Architect or CISO are highly lucrative, with salaries ranging from ₹15 LPA to over ₹50 LPA, depending on the organization and expertise.

Certifications to Advance Your Cybersecurity Career

Certifications are a great way to improve your skills and increase job opportunities in cybersecurity. Here are some popular ones:

• CompTIA Security+
  • Perfect for beginners.
  • Covers basics like network security, threats, and risk management.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • Focuses on ethical hacking and penetration testing.
  • Teaches how to find and fix system vulnerabilities.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • For experienced professionals.
  • Includes topics like risk management, security operations, and policies.
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
  • Focuses on cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
  • Covers cloud security architecture and design.
• GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
  • A general certification for understanding cybersecurity concepts.
  • Covers security practices, cryptography, and more.

How to Break into Cybersecurity Without a Tech Background

You don’t need a tech degree to start a career in cybersecurity. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Start with Basic Certifications

Take beginner certifications like CompTIA Security+ to learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity.

2. Learn Networking and Operating Systems

Understand how systems like Windows and Linux work and how networks communicate.

3. Practice with Cybersecurity Tools

Use tools like firewalls, VPNs, or SIEM platforms to understand how they protect systems.

4. Gain Experience in IT Roles

Start with jobs like IT support to learn how systems are managed and secured.

5. Build a Portfolio

Work on small projects or labs, like setting up a secure network or simulating a cyberattack defense.

The Value of Online Courses in Cybersecurity Training

Cybersecurity is a growing field, and the right training can open doors to exciting opportunities. With upGrad, you can gain the skills you need to succeed through flexible, job-focused online courses.

How upGrad Can Help

We offer tailored programs for all skill levels to kickstart or grow your cybersecurity career.

Our Offerings:

• Cloud Security Courses: Master techniques to secure cloud systems.
• Advanced Certification (7 Months): Earn IIIT Bangalore alumni status, work on real projects, and access 300+ hiring partners.

Why upGrad?

• Learn from industry experts.
• Study at your pace.
• Work on real-world projects.
• Get placement support with top companies.

Start your cybersecurity journey today! Enroll with upGrad now.

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Source:
https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/cybersecurity/worldwide
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/cyber-security-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,22.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/network-security-administrator-salary-SRCH_KO0,30.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/it-security-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,22.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/penetration-tester-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/security-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/incident-response-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/security-architect-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/ciso-chief-information-security-officer-salary-SRCH_KO0,39.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/threat-intelligence-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,27.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/cloud-security-consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm