Salary for Entry-level / Junior Security Researcher during 2024

Salary details

The average entry-level / junior Security Researcher salary lies between USD 107,400 and USD 160,004 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: Dec. 22, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Entry-level / Junior Security Researcher roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with entry-level / junior Security Researcher job listings are Python, Computer Science and Cloud. 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:

Python | 14 jobs Computer Science | 13 jobs Cloud | 12 jobs C | 10 jobs Vulnerabilities | 9 jobs Pentesting | 7 jobs Linux | 6 jobs Windows | 6 jobs Exploit | 6 jobs SQL | 6 jobs Automation | 5 jobs Exploits | 5 jobs SDLC | 5 jobs Threat intelligence | 4 jobs Malware | 4 jobs APT | 4 jobs Scripting | 4 jobs Reverse engineering | 4 jobs IPS | 3 jobs DNS | 3 jobs

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

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with entry-level / junior Security Researcher job listings are Career development, Medical leave and Startup environment. 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:

Career development | 10 jobs Medical leave | 10 jobs Startup environment | 5 jobs Team events | 4 jobs Equity / stock options | 3 jobs Health care | 3 jobs Salary bonus | 3 jobs Conferences | 2 jobs Parental leave | 1 jobs Flex hours | 1 jobs Flex vacation | 1 jobs Signing bonus | 1 jobs Yoga | 1 jobs Insurance | 1 jobs Fertility benefits | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for an entry-level or junior security researcher can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary is composed of a fixed base amount, which forms the bulk of the compensation package. In regions with a high cost of living, such as major tech hubs in the United States, the base salary might be higher to accommodate living expenses. Bonuses are often performance-based and can vary from 5% to 20% of the base salary, depending on the company's profitability and individual performance. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech startups, or other benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development allowances. Larger companies might offer more comprehensive benefits packages, while smaller companies might provide more flexibility or equity options.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from an entry-level position, consider gaining specialized skills or certifications that are in high demand. Pursuing advanced certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), can make you more valuable to employers. Additionally, gaining experience in niche areas like cloud security, threat intelligence, or penetration testing can set you apart. Networking within the industry, attending conferences, and contributing to open-source projects can also enhance your reputation and lead to higher-paying opportunities. Seeking roles in industries with higher security demands, such as finance or healthcare, can also result in better compensation.

Educational Requirements

Most entry-level security researcher positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. Some positions might accept candidates with degrees in mathematics, engineering, or other technical disciplines, provided they have relevant skills or experience. A master's degree can be advantageous and may be required for more advanced positions, but it is not typically necessary for entry-level roles. Practical experience, such as internships or participation in cybersecurity competitions, can also be highly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can play a crucial role in establishing credibility and expertise in the field of cybersecurity. Some common and helpful certifications for entry-level security researchers include:

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential security concepts and practices.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques.
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Validates knowledge of information security concepts and practices.
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Known for its rigorous hands-on testing, it is highly regarded in the industry.

These certifications can help demonstrate your commitment to the field and your technical capabilities.

Required Experience

For entry-level positions, employers typically look for candidates with some practical experience, which can be gained through internships, co-op programs, or personal projects. Experience with programming languages, network security, and operating systems is often required. Familiarity with security tools and platforms, such as intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and vulnerability scanners, is also beneficial. While direct work experience in a security role might not be mandatory, demonstrating a strong understanding of security principles and a proactive approach to learning can be advantageous.

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