Security Operations Lead Salary in 2024

Salary details

The average Security Operations Lead salary lies between USD 95,550 and USD 177,450 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. 17, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Security Operations Lead roles

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

Cloud | 33 jobs Compliance | 28 jobs Incident response | 26 jobs Monitoring | 25 jobs Vulnerabilities | 23 jobs SIEM | 19 jobs CISSP | 18 jobs SOC | 18 jobs NIST | 17 jobs Threat intelligence | 16 jobs CISM | 16 jobs AWS | 14 jobs Malware | 13 jobs Computer Science | 13 jobs Governance | 12 jobs Audits | 11 jobs Strategy | 11 jobs Firewalls | 11 jobs Vulnerability management | 10 jobs ISO 27001 | 10 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Security Operations Lead roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Security Operations Lead job listings are Career development, Flex hours and Team events. 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 | 36 jobs Flex hours | 21 jobs Team events | 19 jobs Competitive pay | 15 jobs Health care | 14 jobs Equity / stock options | 10 jobs Wellness | 10 jobs Parental leave | 9 jobs Flex vacation | 8 jobs Salary bonus | 8 jobs Medical leave | 7 jobs Insurance | 6 jobs Home office stipend | 4 jobs Startup environment | 3 jobs Conferences | 3 jobs 401(k) matching | 2 jobs Gear | 1 jobs Relocation support | 1 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 1 jobs

Salary Composition for a Security Operations Lead

The salary for a Security Operations Lead typically comprises a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The fixed base salary often constitutes the majority of the total compensation package, usually ranging from 70% to 85%. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company's performance and individual achievements, often making up 10% to 20% of the total salary. Additional remuneration, such as stock options, profit-sharing, or comprehensive benefits packages, can account for the remaining 5% to 10%.

Regional differences can influence these percentages. For instance, in tech hubs like Silicon Valley, stock options might play a more significant role, while in regions with a lower cost of living, the base salary might be more competitive. Industry also plays a part; financial services and tech companies often offer higher bonuses compared to other sectors. Company size can affect the composition as well, with larger companies typically providing more structured bonus schemes and benefits.

Steps to Increase Salary from a Security Operations Lead Position

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

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

• Expand Your Skill Set: Develop expertise in emerging areas like cloud security, AI in cybersecurity, or threat intelligence. This can make you more valuable to your current employer or attractive to potential employers.

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

• Network and Build Industry Connections: Engaging with professional networks and attending industry conferences can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions.

• Negotiate Effectively: When discussing salary, be prepared with market research and a clear understanding of your value to the organization.

Educational Requirements for a Security Operations Lead

Most Security Operations 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, particularly in Information Security or Business Administration with a focus on technology. A strong educational background provides a foundation in technical skills and strategic thinking necessary for the role.

Helpful Certifications for a Security Operations Lead

Certifications are crucial in the cybersecurity field, and several are particularly beneficial for a Security Operations Lead:

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

• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Focuses on managing and governing information security programs, aligning with leadership roles.

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Provides skills in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities, which is valuable for operational security roles.

• CompTIA Security+: An entry-level certification that covers essential security concepts and is often a stepping stone to more advanced certifications.

Experience Required for a Security Operations Lead

Typically, a Security Operations Lead is expected to have 5 to 10 years of experience in the cybersecurity field. This experience should include hands-on technical roles, such as a security analyst or engineer, as well as experience in leadership or management positions. Experience in incident response, threat analysis, and security architecture is often required, along with a proven track record of managing security teams and projects.

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