Salary for Mid-level / Intermediate Security Researcher in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average mid-level / intermediate Security Researcher salary lies between USD 98,300 and USD 208,800 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

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 Python, Computer Science and C. 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 | 68 jobs Computer Science | 62 jobs C | 60 jobs Cloud | 44 jobs Linux | 43 jobs Reverse engineering | 43 jobs Vulnerabilities | 42 jobs Windows | 35 jobs iOS | 31 jobs Android | 31 jobs Agile | 29 jobs Malware | 21 jobs Automation | 21 jobs Java | 21 jobs Exploit | 20 jobs Scripting | 18 jobs Machine Learning | 16 jobs SaaS | 15 jobs Mathematics | 15 jobs Threat intelligence | 13 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, Parental leave and Medical leave. 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 | 61 jobs Parental leave | 47 jobs Medical leave | 40 jobs Health care | 35 jobs Team events | 30 jobs Insurance | 28 jobs Flex hours | 26 jobs 401(k) matching | 23 jobs Equity / stock options | 22 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 20 jobs Conferences | 19 jobs Flex vacation | 17 jobs Startup environment | 16 jobs Competitive pay | 12 jobs Relocation support | 10 jobs Salary bonus | 9 jobs Wellness | 5 jobs Flexible spending account | 3 jobs Lunch / meals | 1 jobs Gear | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for a mid-level/intermediate security researcher in the United States typically comprises a base salary, bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The base salary is the fixed component and usually forms the bulk of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company's performance, individual performance, and industry standards. In tech-heavy regions like Silicon Valley, bonuses and stock options might be more substantial compared to other areas. Larger companies often offer more comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities, which can add significant value to the overall compensation.

Increasing Salary Potential

To increase your salary from a mid-level position, consider pursuing advanced certifications, gaining specialized skills, or transitioning into roles with more responsibility, such as a senior security researcher or a security architect. Networking within the industry and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Additionally, exploring opportunities in high-demand sectors like finance, healthcare, or government, where cybersecurity is critical, can lead to better compensation packages.

Educational Requirements

Most mid-level security researcher positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for roles that involve more complex research and analysis. A strong foundation in computer science principles, programming, and network security is essential.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. Some of the most recognized certifications in the field 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 can help validate your skills and knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate for higher-level positions.

Required Experience

Typically, a mid-level security researcher position requires 3-5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. This experience should include hands-on work with security tools, threat analysis, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. Experience in specific industries, such as finance or healthcare, can be advantageous due to the unique security challenges they present.

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