Salary for Senior-level / Expert Security Engineer during 2023

Salary details

The average senior-level / expert Security Engineer salary lies between USD 135,500 and USD 218,000 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 Senior-level / Expert Security Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with senior-level / expert Security Engineer job listings are Cloud, AWS 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:

Cloud | 1897 jobs AWS | 1374 jobs Python | 1334 jobs Automation | 1122 jobs Vulnerabilities | 988 jobs Computer Science | 956 jobs Application security | 834 jobs Compliance | 829 jobs GCP | 749 jobs Azure | 741 jobs Monitoring | 734 jobs Scripting | 700 jobs Incident response | 698 jobs Linux | 676 jobs C | 601 jobs Privacy | 584 jobs Java | 572 jobs Pentesting | 565 jobs Network security | 545 jobs CISSP | 522 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Senior-level / Expert Security Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with senior-level / expert Security Engineer job listings are Career development, Health care and Equity / stock options. 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 | 1479 jobs Health care | 999 jobs Equity / stock options | 829 jobs Flex hours | 780 jobs Team events | 756 jobs Flex vacation | 682 jobs Competitive pay | 579 jobs Parental leave | 568 jobs Startup environment | 564 jobs Salary bonus | 517 jobs Insurance | 463 jobs Medical leave | 408 jobs Wellness | 350 jobs 401(k) matching | 325 jobs Home office stipend | 178 jobs Conferences | 171 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 129 jobs Fitness / gym | 92 jobs Fertility benefits | 84 jobs Gear | 66 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for a Senior-level or Expert Security Engineer in InfoSec/Cyber Security 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 70-80% of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company’s performance and individual achievements, usually 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 or financial institutions, profit-sharing or retirement contributions might be more prevalent. Regional differences also play a role; for instance, salaries in major tech hubs like San Francisco or New York tend to be higher than in smaller cities.

Increasing Salary Further

To increase your salary beyond the current median, consider pursuing leadership roles such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or Director of Security. These positions not only offer higher salaries but also come with greater responsibilities and influence within an organization. Another strategy is to specialize in high-demand areas such as cloud security, AI security, or blockchain security, which can command premium salaries. Additionally, continuous learning and obtaining advanced certifications can make you more competitive. Networking within industry groups and attending conferences can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles.

Educational Requirements

Most senior-level security engineering positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. However, a master's degree in cybersecurity or information security can be advantageous and is sometimes preferred by employers. Advanced degrees demonstrate a deeper understanding of the field and can set candidates apart in a competitive job market. Some roles may also value interdisciplinary studies, such as combining cybersecurity with business administration, to better align security strategies with organizational goals.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications are crucial in the cybersecurity field, as they validate your skills and knowledge. Common and highly regarded certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). For those focusing on specific areas, certifications like Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) can be beneficial. These certifications not only enhance your resume but also provide structured learning paths to deepen your expertise.

Required Experience

Typically, a senior-level security engineer is expected to have at least 5-10 years of experience in the field. This experience should include hands-on work in various aspects of cybersecurity, such as network security, incident response, and vulnerability assessment. Experience in leading projects or teams is also highly valued, as it demonstrates your ability to manage complex security initiatives and mentor junior staff. Exposure to different industries can be advantageous, as it provides a broader perspective on security challenges and solutions.

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