Red Team Operator Salary in 2024

Salary details

The average Red Team Operator salary lies between USD 110,000 and USD 180,000 globally. It represents the overall compensation/gross salary amount for the working year (before deductions like social security, taxes and other contributions), not including equity/stock options or similar benefits.

All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Nov. 17, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Red Team Operator roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Red Team Operator job listings are Red team, Pentesting and Vulnerabilities. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Red team | 73 jobs Pentesting | 46 jobs Vulnerabilities | 45 jobs OSCP | 43 jobs Cloud | 41 jobs Offensive security | 38 jobs Windows | 35 jobs Python | 34 jobs C | 31 jobs Linux | 31 jobs Cobalt Strike | 30 jobs Scripting | 30 jobs OSCE | 29 jobs GPEN | 25 jobs TTPs | 24 jobs Azure | 23 jobs Compliance | 23 jobs GXPN | 22 jobs Application security | 22 jobs Strategy | 21 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Red Team Operator roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Red Team Operator job listings are Health care, Career development and Competitive pay. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Health care | 42 jobs Career development | 42 jobs Competitive pay | 22 jobs Flex vacation | 18 jobs Team events | 18 jobs Medical leave | 17 jobs Insurance | 17 jobs Parental leave | 16 jobs Flex hours | 15 jobs Equity / stock options | 14 jobs 401(k) matching | 11 jobs Salary bonus | 9 jobs Startup environment | 8 jobs Transparency | 8 jobs Wellness | 6 jobs Fitness / gym | 5 jobs Flexible spending account | 5 jobs Conferences | 3 jobs Home office stipend | 1 jobs Fertility benefits | 1 jobs

Salary Composition for a Red Team Operator

The salary for a Red Team Operator can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the compensation package is composed of a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. In regions with a high cost of living, such as the San Francisco Bay Area or New York City, the base salary might be higher to compensate for living expenses. In contrast, regions with a lower cost of living might offer a lower base salary but could balance this with more substantial bonuses or stock options.

In industries like finance or technology, where cybersecurity is critical, companies might offer higher bonuses or additional incentives to attract top talent. Larger companies often have more structured bonus programs and benefits, while smaller companies might offer equity or stock options as part of the compensation package to make up for a potentially lower base salary.

Steps to Increase Salary

To increase your salary from the position of a Red Team Operator, consider the following strategies:

• Specialize in Niche Areas: Developing expertise in niche areas of cybersecurity, such as cloud security or IoT security, can make you more valuable to employers.
• Pursue Advanced Certifications: Obtaining advanced certifications can demonstrate your commitment to the field and enhance your skills, making you eligible for higher-paying roles.
• Seek Leadership Roles: Transitioning into a leadership or managerial role within the Red Team can significantly increase your earning potential.
• Network and Build Reputation: Engaging with the cybersecurity community through conferences, publications, or online forums can enhance your reputation and open up higher-paying opportunities.
• Consider Consulting: Offering your expertise as a consultant can often lead to higher earnings, especially if you have a strong reputation in the industry.

Educational Requirements

Most Red Team Operator positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for more senior roles. A strong foundation in computer science principles, networking, and security concepts is essential.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can play a crucial role in advancing your career as a Red Team Operator. Some of the most recognized and beneficial certifications include:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Provides foundational knowledge in ethical hacking and penetration testing.
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Known for its rigorous hands-on exam, it demonstrates practical penetration testing skills.
• GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN): Focuses on penetration testing methodologies and techniques.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): While broader in scope, it can be beneficial for understanding overall security management.

Required Experience

Typically, a Red Team Operator position requires several years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. Employers often look for candidates with hands-on experience in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and security analysis. Experience with specific tools and technologies used in red teaming, such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and various scripting languages, is also highly valued.

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