Salary for Mid-level / Intermediate Security Engineer during 2023

Salary details

The average mid-level / intermediate Security Engineer salary lies between USD 100,000 and USD 175,000 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. 15, 2024

Salary trend

Top 20 Job Tags for Mid-level / Intermediate Security Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with mid-level / intermediate Security Engineer job listings are Cloud, Compliance and Computer Science. 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 | 297 jobs Compliance | 184 jobs Computer Science | 180 jobs Vulnerabilities | 174 jobs AWS | 174 jobs Firewalls | 147 jobs Monitoring | 145 jobs CISSP | 138 jobs SIEM | 135 jobs Incident response | 133 jobs Python | 126 jobs Automation | 124 jobs Network security | 117 jobs Azure | 111 jobs Linux | 102 jobs Scripting | 102 jobs NIST | 100 jobs Vulnerability management | 98 jobs Application security | 94 jobs Pentesting | 90 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Mid-level / Intermediate Security Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with mid-level / intermediate Security Engineer job listings are Career development, Health care 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 | 272 jobs Health care | 215 jobs Flex hours | 154 jobs Team events | 139 jobs Competitive pay | 111 jobs Startup environment | 98 jobs Flex vacation | 97 jobs Insurance | 89 jobs Salary bonus | 83 jobs 401(k) matching | 76 jobs Equity / stock options | 68 jobs Parental leave | 58 jobs Wellness | 43 jobs Medical leave | 34 jobs Home office stipend | 25 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 20 jobs Conferences | 18 jobs Gear | 17 jobs Relocation support | 16 jobs Fitness / gym | 15 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for a Mid-level/Intermediate Security Engineer typically comprises a base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The base salary is the fixed component and usually constitutes the majority of the total compensation package. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company's profitability and individual performance metrics. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies, or benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off. The composition can vary by region, with tech hubs like Silicon Valley offering higher base salaries and stock options, while other regions might offer more in bonuses. Industry also plays a role; for instance, financial services might offer higher bonuses, while smaller companies might compensate with equity.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from a Mid-level Security Engineer position, consider pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in emerging areas like cloud security or AI-driven security solutions. Gaining expertise in niche areas can make you more valuable to employers. Additionally, taking on leadership roles or projects that demonstrate your ability to manage teams or complex security challenges can position you for promotions. Networking within the industry and staying updated with the latest trends can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Finally, consider exploring opportunities in different industries or regions where demand for cybersecurity expertise is higher.

Educational Requirements

Most Mid-level Security Engineer positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers might prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for roles that involve more complex security challenges or leadership responsibilities. A strong foundation in computer science principles, networking, and systems architecture is essential. Additionally, coursework or experience in cybersecurity-specific topics, such as cryptography, ethical hacking, and risk management, is highly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications for a Mid-level Security Engineer role. Common and highly regarded certifications include:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• CompTIA Security+
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and provide validation of your skills and knowledge in cybersecurity.

Required Experience

Typically, a Mid-level Security Engineer is expected to have 3-5 years of experience in information security or a related field. This experience should include hands-on work with security technologies, incident response, and vulnerability assessment. Experience with specific tools and platforms, such as SIEM systems, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, is often required. Additionally, experience in developing and implementing security policies and procedures is valuable.

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