Salary for Mid-level / Intermediate Information Security Engineer during 2021

Salary details

The average mid-level / intermediate Information Security Engineer salary lies between USD 119,000 and USD 120,000 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.

Salary trend

Salary Composition

The salary for a Mid-level/Intermediate Information Security Engineer typically consists of a base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The base salary is the fixed component and usually makes up the majority of the total compensation package. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company’s policies and your individual performance. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies, or benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

The composition can vary based on several factors: - Region: Salaries in major tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City tend to be higher due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. - Industry: Industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology often offer higher salaries due to the critical nature of information security in these sectors. - Company Size: Larger companies may offer more comprehensive benefits and bonuses, while startups might offer equity as part of the compensation package.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from a Mid-level Information Security Engineer position, consider the following steps: - Skill Enhancement: Continuously update your skills and knowledge in emerging technologies and security practices. Specializing in areas like cloud security, penetration testing, or threat intelligence can make you more valuable. - Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CEH, which can enhance your qualifications and bargaining power. - Networking: Engage with professional networks and attend industry conferences to increase your visibility and learn about new opportunities. - Leadership Roles: Aim for roles with more responsibility, such as team lead or project manager, which often come with higher pay. - Negotiation: When changing jobs or during performance reviews, negotiate for a higher salary based on your contributions and market research.

Educational Requirements

Most mid-level information security positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree in cybersecurity or information assurance. A strong educational background provides a solid foundation in the principles of information security and related technologies.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications are highly valued in the information security field and can significantly enhance your career prospects. Some common and beneficial certifications include: - Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) - Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) - Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) - CompTIA Security+ - Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate to employers.

Required Experience

Typically, a mid-level information security engineer is expected to have 3-5 years of relevant experience. This experience should include hands-on work with security technologies, incident response, risk assessment, and familiarity with security frameworks and compliance standards. Experience in specific industries or with certain technologies can also be advantageous.

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