Salary for Entry-level / Junior Security Consultant in United States during 2023

Salary details

The average entry-level / junior Security Consultant salary lies between USD 60,000 and USD 70,000 in the United States. 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.

Region represents the primary country of residence of an employee during the year (or residence for tax purposes). 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 Entry-level / Junior Security Consultant roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with entry-level / junior Security Consultant job listings are Cloud, Compliance and Linux. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Cloud | 48 jobs Compliance | 42 jobs Linux | 35 jobs Computer Science | 34 jobs Windows | 31 jobs AWS | 30 jobs Azure | 29 jobs Forensics | 28 jobs Monitoring | 28 jobs Pentesting | 27 jobs Incident response | 26 jobs GCP | 25 jobs NIST | 23 jobs Risk management | 23 jobs Strategy | 22 jobs Cryptography | 22 jobs Risk assessment | 21 jobs ICS | 20 jobs GDPR | 20 jobs Python | 20 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Entry-level / Junior Security Consultant roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with entry-level / junior Security Consultant job listings are Career development, Competitive pay and Flex hours. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 42 jobs Competitive pay | 31 jobs Flex hours | 30 jobs Team events | 30 jobs Equity / stock options | 25 jobs Home office stipend | 17 jobs Health care | 15 jobs Startup environment | 8 jobs Salary bonus | 6 jobs Travel | 3 jobs Relocation support | 3 jobs 401(k) matching | 1 jobs Flex vacation | 1 jobs Conferences | 1 jobs Medical leave | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

In the United States, the salary composition for an entry-level or junior security consultant typically includes a fixed base salary, which forms the bulk of the compensation package. This base salary can vary significantly depending on the region, industry, and company size. For instance, tech hubs like San Francisco or New York may offer higher base salaries compared to smaller cities due to the higher cost of living and demand for talent.

In addition to the base salary, many companies offer performance-based bonuses. These bonuses can be tied to individual performance, team performance, or company-wide success metrics. While not as substantial as the base salary, bonuses can add a significant amount to the total compensation package.

Some companies, particularly larger ones, may also offer additional remuneration in the form of stock options, profit-sharing plans, or other financial incentives. Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off are also common components of the overall compensation package.

Steps to Increase Salary

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

• Skill Development: Continuously improve your technical skills and stay updated with the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies. This can make you more valuable to your current employer or attractive to potential employers.

• Certifications: Obtaining advanced certifications can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, potentially leading to higher-paying opportunities.

• Networking: Build a strong professional network within the cybersecurity community. Networking can lead to new job opportunities and provide insights into industry salary standards.

• Experience: Gain diverse experience by working on different projects or in various industries. This can broaden your skill set and make you more competitive in the job market.

• Advanced Education: Consider pursuing further education, such as a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, which can open doors to higher-level positions.

Educational Requirements

Most entry-level security consultant positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. Some employers may accept candidates with degrees in other disciplines if they have relevant experience or certifications. A strong foundation in computer systems, networks, and security principles is essential.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications for a junior security consultant role. Some of the most recognized and beneficial certifications include:

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential cybersecurity concepts and practices.
• 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.
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Useful for those looking to move into management roles in the future.
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Validates a practitioner's knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts.

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 security tools, understanding of network protocols, and familiarity with operating systems are often expected. While direct work experience in cybersecurity is ideal, related experience in IT or software development can also be valuable.

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