Security Engineer Salary in United Kingdom during 2022

Salary details

The average Security Engineer salary lies between USD 55,410 and USD 118,208 in the United Kingdom. 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. 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

In the United Kingdom, the salary composition for a Security Engineer can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary is composed of a fixed base amount, which forms the bulk of the compensation package. This base salary can be supplemented by performance-based bonuses, which are often tied to individual or company performance metrics. Additionally, some companies offer stock options or equity, particularly in the tech industry or startups, as a form of long-term incentive. Benefits such as health insurance, pension contributions, and other perks like gym memberships or travel allowances can also be part of the overall remuneration package. In larger companies or those in high-demand regions like London, the bonus and additional remuneration components might be more substantial compared to smaller companies or those in less competitive areas.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary from a Security Engineer position, consider the following strategies:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in a niche area of cybersecurity, such as cloud security, penetration testing, or threat intelligence, which can make you more valuable to employers.
• Advanced Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications that are recognized in the industry, which can demonstrate your commitment and expertise.
• Networking: Engage with professional networks and attend industry conferences to increase your visibility and learn about new opportunities.
• Leadership Roles: Aim for leadership or managerial positions within your organization, which typically come with higher pay.
• Industry Transition: Consider moving to industries that pay higher salaries for cybersecurity roles, such as finance or technology.

Educational Requirements

Most Security Engineer positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for more senior roles. Relevant coursework in network security, cryptography, and information systems is highly beneficial. Additionally, practical experience gained through internships or cooperative education programs can be crucial in meeting educational requirements.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications are highly valued in the cybersecurity field and can significantly enhance your employability and salary prospects. Some of the most common and respected certifications for Security Engineers include:

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

These certifications demonstrate a solid understanding of security principles and practices and are often required or preferred by employers.

Experience Requirements

Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 2-5 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity roles for a Security Engineer position. This experience should include hands-on work with security technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Experience in incident response, risk assessment, and security policy development is also valuable. For more senior roles, additional years of experience and a proven track record of managing security projects or teams may be required.

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