Salary for Entry-level / Junior Cyber Security Engineer during 2021

Salary details

The average entry-level / junior Cyber Security Engineer salary lies between USD 65,000 and USD 93,000 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

Salary Composition

The salary for an entry-level or junior Cyber Security Engineer typically consists of a fixed base salary, which forms the bulk of the compensation package. In addition to the base salary, many companies offer performance-based bonuses, which can vary significantly depending on the company's profitability and individual performance. Additional remuneration may include stock options, especially in tech companies, and benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The composition of the salary can vary based on several factors:

• Region: Salaries tend to be higher in regions with a high cost of living, such as the San Francisco Bay Area or New York City, compared to smaller cities or rural areas.
• Industry: Industries like finance, healthcare, and technology often offer higher salaries due to the critical nature of cybersecurity in these sectors.
• Company Size: Larger companies may offer more comprehensive benefits and higher salaries compared to startups, although startups might offer equity as part of the compensation package.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from an entry-level position, consider the following steps:

• Skill Development: Continuously update and expand your technical skills, particularly in areas like cloud security, penetration testing, and threat analysis.
• Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) to demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field.
• Networking: Engage with professional networks and attend industry conferences to learn about new opportunities and trends.
• Experience: Gain experience in specialized areas of cybersecurity, such as incident response or security architecture, which can lead to higher-paying roles.
• Advanced Education: Consider pursuing a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field to qualify for more advanced positions.

Educational Requirements

Most entry-level cybersecurity positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may accept candidates with an associate degree or relevant experience, but a bachelor's degree is often preferred. Coursework in network security, cryptography, and information systems is particularly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often required or preferred by employers. Some common and helpful certifications for entry-level cybersecurity roles include:

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential cybersecurity concepts.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Although more advanced, it is highly regarded in the industry.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques.
• Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate: Provides knowledge in security operations and monitoring.

Experience Requirements

For entry-level positions, employers typically look for candidates with some practical experience, which can be gained through internships, co-op programs, or relevant projects during your studies. Experience with network security, system administration, or IT support can be advantageous. Demonstrating hands-on experience with security tools and technologies is often more important than the length of experience.

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