Salary for Entry-level / Junior Systems Engineer during 2024

Salary details

The average entry-level / junior Systems Engineer salary lies between USD 60,000 and USD 124,000 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: Dec. 22, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Entry-level / Junior Systems Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with entry-level / junior Systems Engineer job listings are Computer Science, Clearance and Security Clearance. 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:

Computer Science | 9 jobs Clearance | 8 jobs Security Clearance | 8 jobs DoD | 8 jobs Cloud | 6 jobs Compliance | 5 jobs Audits | 4 jobs Python | 4 jobs Linux | 4 jobs Firewalls | 3 jobs DoDD 8570 | 3 jobs Windows | 3 jobs Risk management | 3 jobs DevSecOps | 3 jobs Agile | 3 jobs DNS | 2 jobs Incident response | 2 jobs Ecommerce | 2 jobs Splunk | 2 jobs Encryption | 2 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Entry-level / Junior Systems Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with entry-level / junior Systems Engineer job listings are Career development, Health care and Equity / stock options. 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 | 6 jobs Health care | 5 jobs Equity / stock options | 4 jobs Competitive pay | 4 jobs Relocation support | 2 jobs Parental leave | 1 jobs Flex hours | 1 jobs Flex vacation | 1 jobs Wellness | 1 jobs Startup environment | 1 jobs Transparency | 1 jobs Team events | 1 jobs Salary bonus | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for an entry-level or junior systems engineer in InfoSec/Cyber Security typically comprises a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The fixed base salary is the most significant component, often accounting for 70-85% of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary widely depending on the company and industry, ranging from 5-15% of the base salary. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies, or benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development allowances. Regional differences also play a role; for instance, salaries in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City might be higher due to the cost of living and demand for talent. Similarly, larger companies or those in high-stakes industries like finance or defense may offer more competitive compensation packages.

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 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can make you more valuable to employers. Additionally, gaining experience in niche areas like cloud security, penetration testing, or threat intelligence can set you apart. Networking within the industry, attending conferences, and participating in professional organizations can also open up opportunities for advancement. Seeking roles with more responsibility, such as a senior systems engineer or a security analyst, can lead to higher pay. Finally, consider pursuing further education, such as a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, to enhance your qualifications.

Educational Requirements

Most entry-level positions in InfoSec/Cyber Security require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. 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. Coursework in programming, network security, cryptography, and risk management is often beneficial. As the field evolves, some employers may also value knowledge in emerging areas like artificial intelligence or blockchain technology.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your employability and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Some common and helpful certifications for entry-level positions include:

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential security concepts and practices.
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Useful for roles involving auditing, control, and assurance.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques.
• Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate: Provides knowledge in security operations and monitoring.

These certifications not only validate your skills but also keep you updated with the latest industry standards and practices.

Required Experience

For entry-level roles, 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 administration, system configuration, or security tools can be advantageous. While direct work experience in cybersecurity may not be mandatory, familiarity with security concepts and a demonstrated interest in the field are crucial. Participation in cybersecurity competitions, hackathons, or open-source projects can also provide valuable experience and showcase your skills to potential employers.

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