Security Operations Specialist Salary in 2024

Salary details

The average Security Operations Specialist salary lies between USD 101,109 and USD 188,800 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 Specialist roles

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

Incident response | 37 jobs Cloud | 30 jobs Monitoring | 29 jobs AWS | 26 jobs CISSP | 24 jobs SIEM | 22 jobs Firewalls | 22 jobs Linux | 22 jobs IDS | 21 jobs Compliance | 21 jobs Privacy | 20 jobs IPS | 18 jobs Automation | 18 jobs Windows | 16 jobs Vulnerability management | 15 jobs NIST | 15 jobs Computer Science | 15 jobs Vulnerabilities | 14 jobs Python | 14 jobs Forensics | 13 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Security Operations Specialist roles

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

Career development | 37 jobs Health care | 32 jobs Team events | 29 jobs Flex hours | 18 jobs Insurance | 16 jobs Parental leave | 15 jobs Equity / stock options | 14 jobs Medical leave | 14 jobs 401(k) matching | 12 jobs Transparency | 12 jobs Flex vacation | 11 jobs Startup environment | 10 jobs Flexible spending account | 8 jobs Competitive pay | 6 jobs Salary bonus | 5 jobs Wellness | 4 jobs Fitness / gym | 4 jobs Relocation support | 4 jobs Travel | 3 jobs Signing bonus | 1 jobs

Salary Composition for a Security Operations Specialist

The salary for a Security Operations Specialist typically comprises a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The fixed base salary is the largest component and can vary significantly depending on the region, industry, and company size. For instance, specialists in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York may receive higher base salaries compared to those in smaller cities. Performance bonuses are often tied to individual or team performance metrics and can range from 5% to 20% of the base salary. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies, or comprehensive benefits packages that cover health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks.

Steps to Increase Salary from a Security Operations Specialist Position

To increase your salary from a Security Operations Specialist position, consider pursuing advanced certifications or further education, such as a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field. Gaining experience in specialized areas like threat intelligence, incident response, or cloud security can also make you more valuable. Networking within the industry and seeking mentorship can provide insights into higher-paying opportunities. Additionally, taking on leadership roles or projects that demonstrate your ability to manage teams or complex security challenges can position you for promotions or higher-paying roles.

Educational Requirements for a Security Operations Specialist

Most Security Operations Specialist positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Some employers may accept equivalent work experience in lieu of a degree, but having formal education can provide a competitive edge. Advanced positions might require a master's degree or specialized training in cybersecurity.

Helpful Certifications for a Security Operations Specialist

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often sought after by employers. Common and beneficial certifications for a Security Operations Specialist include:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

These certifications demonstrate a solid understanding of security principles and practices and can help in advancing your career.

Experience Required for a Security Operations Specialist

Typically, employers look for candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity roles. Experience in network security, incident response, and security monitoring is particularly valuable. Hands-on experience with security tools and technologies, such as SIEM systems, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, is often required. Demonstrating a track record of successfully managing security incidents and implementing security measures can be crucial.

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