Security Engineer Salary in United Kingdom during 2023

Salary details

The average Security Engineer salary lies between USD 79,976 and USD 145,800 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: Dec. 15, 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 2023 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Cloud | 2556 jobs AWS | 1736 jobs Python | 1616 jobs Automation | 1419 jobs Computer Science | 1341 jobs Vulnerabilities | 1339 jobs Compliance | 1229 jobs Application security | 1085 jobs Monitoring | 1025 jobs Azure | 1012 jobs Incident response | 939 jobs GCP | 926 jobs Scripting | 915 jobs Linux | 908 jobs Network security | 800 jobs CISSP | 780 jobs C | 772 jobs Privacy | 764 jobs Pentesting | 763 jobs Java | 704 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 Flex hours. 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 | 2098 jobs Health care | 1417 jobs Flex hours | 1112 jobs Team events | 1056 jobs Equity / stock options | 1007 jobs Flex vacation | 886 jobs Competitive pay | 801 jobs Startup environment | 796 jobs Parental leave | 704 jobs Salary bonus | 679 jobs Insurance | 639 jobs Medical leave | 495 jobs Wellness | 472 jobs 401(k) matching | 464 jobs Home office stipend | 232 jobs Conferences | 221 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 174 jobs Fitness / gym | 126 jobs Gear | 103 jobs Fertility benefits | 96 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 divided into a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits.

• Fixed Base Salary: This is the guaranteed portion of your salary and usually constitutes the majority of your total compensation. In London and other major cities, the base salary tends to be higher due to the increased cost of living and demand for skilled professionals.

• Bonuses: Performance bonuses are common and can be based on individual performance, team performance, or company profitability. These bonuses can range from 5% to 20% of the base salary, depending on the company and industry.

• Additional Remuneration: This may include stock options, especially in tech companies or startups, as well as benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development allowances. Larger companies often offer more comprehensive benefits packages.

Increasing Salary

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

• Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focus on niche areas within cybersecurity, such as cloud security, penetration testing, or threat intelligence, which are in high demand and can command higher salaries.

• Pursue Advanced Certifications: Obtaining advanced certifications can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you more attractive to employers.

• Gain Leadership Experience: Transitioning into a leadership role, such as a Security Architect or Security Manager, can significantly increase your earning potential.

• Network and Stay Informed: Engage with professional networks and stay updated on industry trends to identify opportunities for advancement and salary negotiation.

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 includes network security, cryptography, and information systems.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can enhance your qualifications and are often highly regarded by employers. Some of the most beneficial certifications for a Security Engineer include:

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

These certifications validate your skills and knowledge in various aspects of cybersecurity and can be pivotal in career advancement.

Required Experience

Typically, employers look for candidates with 2-5 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity roles. Experience in network administration, systems analysis, or software development can be advantageous. Practical experience with security tools and technologies, as well as a strong understanding of security protocols and best practices, is essential.

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