Salary for Senior-level / Expert Security Researcher in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average senior-level / expert Security Researcher salary lies between USD 136,000 and USD 237,000 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: Dec. 15, 2024

Salary trend

Top 20 Job Tags for Senior-level / Expert Security Researcher roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with senior-level / expert Security Researcher job listings are Python, Vulnerabilities and Cloud. 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 | 266 jobs Vulnerabilities | 181 jobs Cloud | 176 jobs Malware | 155 jobs Computer Science | 149 jobs C | 147 jobs Reverse engineering | 129 jobs Linux | 105 jobs Exploits | 104 jobs Windows | 97 jobs Exploit | 89 jobs Scripting | 86 jobs TTPs | 85 jobs Automation | 79 jobs EDR | 79 jobs SQL | 75 jobs XDR | 70 jobs Machine Learning | 67 jobs Application security | 66 jobs Privacy | 63 jobs

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

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with senior-level / expert Security Researcher job listings are Career development, Medical leave and Equity / stock options. 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 | 285 jobs Medical leave | 210 jobs Equity / stock options | 144 jobs Salary bonus | 116 jobs Health care | 113 jobs Flex hours | 75 jobs Parental leave | 65 jobs Flex vacation | 65 jobs Team events | 64 jobs Insurance | 57 jobs Startup environment | 55 jobs Competitive pay | 52 jobs Conferences | 35 jobs Wellness | 34 jobs Transparency | 25 jobs Home office stipend | 21 jobs Relocation support | 19 jobs Gear | 13 jobs 401(k) matching | 11 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 6 jobs

Salary Composition

In the United States, the salary composition for a Senior-level/Expert Security Researcher can vary significantly based on region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary package includes a fixed base salary, which constitutes the majority of the total compensation. This base salary can range from 70% to 85% of the total package. Bonuses, which are often performance-based, can make up 10% to 20% of the total compensation. These bonuses may be tied to individual performance, team performance, or company-wide success metrics. Additionally, some companies offer stock options or equity, especially in tech-heavy regions like Silicon Valley, which can significantly enhance the overall compensation package. Benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and other perks also play a role in the total remuneration but are not typically included in the salary index figures.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary further from a Senior-level/Expert Security Researcher position, consider the following strategies:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in a niche area of cybersecurity, such as threat intelligence, cryptography, or cloud security, which can make you more valuable to employers.
• Leadership Roles: Transition into leadership or managerial roles, such as a Security Director or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), which typically offer higher compensation.
• Consulting: Consider moving into a consulting role, where you can leverage your expertise across multiple projects and potentially earn higher fees.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest technologies and threats in cybersecurity, and pursue advanced certifications or degrees that can justify a higher salary.
• Networking: Engage with professional networks and industry events to increase your visibility and open up opportunities for higher-paying positions.

Educational Requirements

Most Senior-level/Expert Security Researcher positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. However, many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or higher, especially for senior roles. Advanced degrees in cybersecurity or specialized fields can provide a competitive edge and may be necessary for roles in certain industries, such as finance or government.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often required or highly preferred for senior cybersecurity roles. Some of the most valuable certifications include:

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

These certifications demonstrate a high level of expertise and commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate for senior positions.

Required Experience

Typically, a Senior-level/Expert Security Researcher is expected to have at least 7 to 10 years of experience in the cybersecurity field. This experience should include hands-on technical work, such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. Experience in developing security policies, conducting risk assessments, and working with cross-functional teams is also highly valued. Additionally, experience in a specific industry, such as finance, healthcare, or government, can be beneficial depending on the employer's focus.

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