Security Engineer Salary in 2022

Salary details

The average Security Engineer salary lies between USD 129,300 and USD 185,900 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. 24, 2024

Salary trend

Top 20 Job Tags for Security Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Security Engineer job listings are Cloud, AWS and Python. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2022 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Cloud | 1789 jobs AWS | 1232 jobs Python | 1216 jobs Automation | 1057 jobs Vulnerabilities | 1036 jobs Compliance | 875 jobs Computer Science | 875 jobs Application security | 855 jobs Monitoring | 725 jobs Linux | 707 jobs Incident response | 667 jobs Azure | 641 jobs Scripting | 624 jobs Privacy | 596 jobs Pentesting | 587 jobs GCP | 575 jobs Network security | 536 jobs C | 535 jobs Java | 512 jobs Kubernetes | 501 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Security Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Security Engineer job listings are Career development, Health care and Team events. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2022 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 1350 jobs Health care | 929 jobs Team events | 752 jobs Flex hours | 690 jobs Startup environment | 662 jobs Flex vacation | 589 jobs Competitive pay | 531 jobs Parental leave | 463 jobs Equity / stock options | 447 jobs 401(k) matching | 382 jobs Insurance | 309 jobs Medical leave | 288 jobs Salary bonus | 269 jobs Wellness | 250 jobs Home office stipend | 189 jobs Conferences | 153 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 140 jobs Fitness / gym | 90 jobs Fertility benefits | 73 jobs Snacks / Drinks | 68 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for a Security Engineer in the InfoSec/Cyber Security field 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 largest part of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company's performance, individual performance, and the specific industry. For instance, tech companies or financial institutions might offer higher bonuses compared to other sectors. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech startups or large tech firms, and benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The composition can also vary by region, with tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City offering higher overall compensation packages compared to other areas.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from the position of a Security Engineer, consider pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in emerging areas of cybersecurity, such as cloud security or AI-driven security solutions. Gaining experience in leadership roles or project management can also be beneficial, as it positions you for roles with greater responsibility and higher pay, such as Security Architect or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Networking within the industry and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Additionally, considering a move to a larger company or a different industry that values cybersecurity expertise more highly can result in a salary increase.

Educational Requirements

Most Security Engineer 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 more senior roles. Relevant coursework typically includes subjects like network security, cryptography, and systems architecture. Practical experience gained through internships or cooperative education programs can also be highly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often highly regarded by employers. Some of the most common and valuable certifications for Security Engineers include:

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

These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and a recognized level of expertise.

Required Experience

Typically, a Security Engineer role requires 3-5 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity. This experience should include hands-on work with security technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Experience in scripting or programming, as well as familiarity with operating systems and network protocols, is also important. For more senior positions, additional years of experience and a proven track record of managing security projects or teams may be required.

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