Salary for Entry-level / Junior Security Researcher in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average entry-level / junior Security Researcher salary lies between USD 107,400 and USD 160,004 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: Dec. 15, 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 | 13 jobs Computer Science | 12 jobs Cloud | 11 jobs C | 9 jobs Vulnerabilities | 8 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 IPS | 3 jobs DNS | 3 jobs Firewalls | 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

In the United States, the salary composition 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. This base salary can range widely depending on the cost of living in the area and the demand for cybersecurity professionals. In addition to the base salary, many companies offer performance-based bonuses, which can be a percentage of the base salary or a fixed amount. These bonuses are often tied to individual performance metrics or company-wide goals. Additional remuneration may include stock options, especially in tech companies, and benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development allowances. Larger companies or those in high-demand industries like finance or technology may offer more competitive packages compared to smaller firms or those in less lucrative sectors.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from an entry-level position, consider pursuing advanced certifications and further education, such as a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field. Gaining specialized skills in areas like penetration testing, threat intelligence, or incident response can make you more valuable to employers. Networking within the industry and attending conferences can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Additionally, gaining experience in a variety of cybersecurity domains and demonstrating leadership potential can position you for promotions to senior roles, which typically come with higher salaries. Seeking opportunities in high-demand regions or industries can also lead to better compensation.

Educational Requirements

Most entry-level security researcher positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Some employers may accept candidates with equivalent experience or certifications in lieu of a formal degree. A strong foundation in computer science principles, programming, and networking is essential. As the field is highly technical, coursework or projects that demonstrate practical skills in cybersecurity can be advantageous.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often sought after by employers. Some common and helpful certifications for entry-level security researchers include:

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential cybersecurity concepts.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques.
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Validates knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Although more advanced, it is highly regarded and can be pursued as you gain experience.

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, programming languages, and operating systems is often required. Demonstrating hands-on experience with cybersecurity tasks, such as vulnerability assessments or security audits, can be beneficial. While direct work experience may not be extensive, showcasing a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and a proactive approach to learning can make you a competitive candidate.

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