Salary for Mid-level / Intermediate Security Researcher during 2023

Salary details

The average mid-level / intermediate Security Researcher salary lies between USD 80,000 and USD 225,000 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: Nov. 17, 2024

Salary trend

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

The three most common job tag items assiciated with mid-level / intermediate Security Researcher job listings are Vulnerabilities, Reverse engineering and Python. 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:

Vulnerabilities | 11 jobs Reverse engineering | 6 jobs Python | 5 jobs Cloud | 5 jobs Malware | 4 jobs Automation | 4 jobs C | 4 jobs Linux | 4 jobs Exploit | 4 jobs Application security | 4 jobs Scripting | 4 jobs Computer Science | 4 jobs IDS | 3 jobs Audits | 3 jobs Threat intelligence | 3 jobs Red team | 3 jobs TCP/IP | 3 jobs Windows | 3 jobs Exploits | 3 jobs Privacy | 3 jobs

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

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with mid-level / intermediate Security Researcher 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 | 8 jobs Health care | 5 jobs Flex hours | 4 jobs Competitive pay | 4 jobs Team events | 3 jobs Equity / stock options | 2 jobs Flex vacation | 2 jobs Wellness | 2 jobs Startup environment | 2 jobs Medical leave | 2 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 2 jobs Parental leave | 1 jobs Conferences | 1 jobs Relocation support | 1 jobs Yoga | 1 jobs Insurance | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for a mid-level/intermediate security researcher typically comprises a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or profit-sharing. The fixed base salary is the largest component, often accounting for 70-80% of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company and industry, ranging from 10-20% of the base salary. Additional remuneration, such as stock options, is more common in tech companies and startups, especially in regions like Silicon Valley. In larger corporations, especially in finance or healthcare, bonuses might be more substantial, reflecting the critical nature of cybersecurity in these industries.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from a mid-level position, consider pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in emerging areas of cybersecurity, such as cloud security or AI-driven threat detection. Networking within the industry and attending conferences can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Additionally, gaining experience in leadership or project management can position you for senior roles, which typically offer higher compensation. Exploring opportunities in high-demand regions or industries, such as finance or tech hubs, can also lead to salary increases.

Educational Requirements

Most mid-level security researcher 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, especially for roles that involve complex research or development of new security technologies. A strong foundation in computer science principles, programming, and network security is essential.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often valued by employers. Some of the most beneficial certifications for a security researcher include:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and a deep understanding of security principles and practices.

Required Experience

Typically, a mid-level security researcher is expected to have 3-5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. This experience should include hands-on work with security tools, threat analysis, and vulnerability assessment. Experience in specific areas such as penetration testing, incident response, or malware analysis can be particularly valuable. Employers often look for candidates who have demonstrated the ability to work independently and as part of a team to solve complex security challenges.

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