Security Lead Salary in 2024

Salary details

The average Security Lead salary lies between USD 97,300 and USD 196,500 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 Security Lead roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Security Lead job listings are Compliance, Cloud and CISSP. 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:

Compliance | 274 jobs Cloud | 199 jobs CISSP | 189 jobs Risk management | 163 jobs Vulnerabilities | 149 jobs NIST | 147 jobs Strategy | 146 jobs Computer Science | 146 jobs Monitoring | 142 jobs Incident response | 129 jobs CISM | 122 jobs Audits | 112 jobs Risk assessment | 101 jobs ISO 27001 | 100 jobs Governance | 92 jobs Application security | 89 jobs Privacy | 81 jobs Vulnerability management | 79 jobs Firewalls | 72 jobs Security assessment | 69 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Security Lead roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Security Lead 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 2024 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 242 jobs Health care | 171 jobs Flex hours | 123 jobs Competitive pay | 96 jobs Team events | 96 jobs Insurance | 90 jobs Medical leave | 76 jobs Equity / stock options | 71 jobs Startup environment | 70 jobs Flex vacation | 69 jobs Parental leave | 62 jobs Wellness | 53 jobs Salary bonus | 53 jobs 401(k) matching | 51 jobs Fitness / gym | 31 jobs Home office stipend | 17 jobs Gear | 12 jobs Relocation support | 12 jobs Fertility benefits | 12 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 10 jobs

Salary Composition for a Security Lead

The salary composition for a Security Lead can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary is divided into three main components: a fixed base salary, a performance-based bonus, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits.

• Fixed Base Salary: This is the guaranteed portion of the salary and usually constitutes the largest part. In regions with a high cost of living, such as major metropolitan areas in the United States, the base salary might be higher to compensate for living expenses.

• Performance-Based Bonus: This component is often tied to individual performance, team performance, or company-wide success. In industries like finance or technology, bonuses can be substantial, sometimes reaching 20-30% of the base salary.

• Additional Remuneration: This can include stock options, especially in tech companies, as well as benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and other perks. Larger companies might offer more comprehensive packages compared to smaller firms.

Steps to Increase Salary from a Security Lead Position

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

• Pursue Advanced Certifications: Obtaining advanced certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) can enhance your qualifications and make you eligible for higher-paying roles.

• Expand Your Skill Set: Learning new technologies or methodologies, such as cloud security or ethical hacking, can make you more valuable to your current or potential employers.

• Seek Leadership Roles: Transitioning into higher-level management positions, such as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), can significantly increase your earning potential.

• Network and Build Industry Connections: Engaging with industry professionals through conferences, seminars, and online forums can open up new opportunities and provide insights into higher-paying roles.

Educational Requirements for a Security Lead

Most Security Lead 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 roles in larger organizations or those with a strategic focus. Relevant coursework includes network security, cryptography, and risk management.

Helpful Certifications for a Security Lead

Certifications are highly valued in the cybersecurity field and can significantly enhance your credentials. Some of the most beneficial certifications for a Security Lead include:

• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): Recognized globally, this certification demonstrates a deep understanding of cybersecurity practices and principles.

• CISM (Certified Information Security Manager): Focuses on management and governance aspects of information security.

• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): Provides skills in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities.

• CompTIA Security+: A foundational certification that covers essential security concepts and practices.

Experience Required for a Security Lead

Typically, a Security Lead position requires several years of experience in the cybersecurity field. This often includes:

• 5-10 years of experience in roles such as security analyst, security engineer, or similar positions.

• Experience in managing teams and projects, as leadership skills are crucial for this role.

• Hands-on experience with security technologies and tools, as well as a strong understanding of security protocols and best practices.

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