Salary for Senior-level / Expert Cyber Security Analyst in United States during 2021

Salary details

The average senior-level / expert Cyber Security Analyst salary lies between USD 95,000 and USD 150,000 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: Nov. 10, 2024

Salary trend

Salary Composition

The salary for a Senior-level or Expert Cyber Security Analyst in the United States typically comprises a base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or profit-sharing. The base salary is often the largest component, accounting for approximately 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 larger tech companies or startups and can add another 5-10% to the total compensation. Regional differences also play a role; for instance, salaries in tech hubs like San Francisco or New York City tend to be higher due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary beyond the current median, consider pursuing leadership roles such as Cyber Security Manager or Director of Information Security. These positions often come with higher compensation packages. Additionally, specializing in high-demand areas like cloud security, threat intelligence, or incident response can make you more valuable to employers. Networking within the industry and attending conferences can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Finally, negotiating your salary during job offers or performance reviews is crucial; be prepared with market research and a clear understanding of your value to the organization.

Educational Requirements

Most senior-level cyber 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 cyber security or information assurance. Advanced degrees can provide a deeper understanding of complex security issues and demonstrate a commitment to the field, potentially making you more competitive for higher-level positions.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications are highly valued in the cyber security industry and can significantly enhance your qualifications. Common and beneficial certifications include:

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

These certifications demonstrate expertise and commitment to staying current with industry standards and practices.

Required Experience

Typically, a senior-level cyber security analyst position requires at least 5-10 years of experience in the field. This experience should include hands-on work with security technologies, incident response, risk assessment, and vulnerability management. Experience in a specific industry, such as finance or healthcare, can also be advantageous, as it provides insight into industry-specific threats and compliance requirements.

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