Security Researcher Salary in Canada during 2024

Salary details

The average Security Researcher salary lies between USD 120,000 and USD 186,000 in Canada. 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. 17, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Security Researcher roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Security Researcher job listings are Python, Vulnerabilities and Cloud. 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:

Python | 342 jobs Vulnerabilities | 242 jobs Cloud | 221 jobs Computer Science | 218 jobs C | 214 jobs Malware | 169 jobs Reverse engineering | 167 jobs Linux | 147 jobs Windows | 130 jobs Exploits | 125 jobs Exploit | 121 jobs Scripting | 109 jobs Automation | 100 jobs TTPs | 89 jobs SQL | 88 jobs Java | 82 jobs Machine Learning | 80 jobs Pentesting | 76 jobs EDR | 75 jobs Application security | 73 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Security Researcher roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Security Researcher job listings are Career development, Medical leave and Equity / stock options. 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 | 346 jobs Medical leave | 248 jobs Equity / stock options | 164 jobs Health care | 151 jobs Salary bonus | 122 jobs Parental leave | 118 jobs Flex hours | 109 jobs Team events | 95 jobs Flex vacation | 88 jobs Insurance | 83 jobs Startup environment | 69 jobs Competitive pay | 61 jobs Conferences | 54 jobs Wellness | 45 jobs 401(k) matching | 34 jobs Home office stipend | 29 jobs Relocation support | 28 jobs Transparency | 27 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 23 jobs Gear | 16 jobs

Salary Composition

In Canada, the salary composition for a Security Researcher 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 range from 70% to 85% of the total compensation. Bonuses are also a common component, often tied to performance metrics or company profitability, and can account for 10% to 20% of the total salary. Additional remuneration may include stock options, especially in tech companies or startups, and other benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development allowances. In larger companies or those in high-demand regions like Toronto or Vancouver, the bonus and additional remuneration components might be more substantial.

Increasing Salary

To increase your salary further from the median of USD 152,500, consider pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in emerging areas of cybersecurity, such as cloud security or AI-driven threat detection. Networking within the industry and attending conferences can also open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Additionally, gaining experience in leadership roles or project management can position you for senior or managerial roles, which typically offer higher compensation. Exploring opportunities in high-demand sectors, such as finance or healthcare, where cybersecurity is critical, can also lead to higher salaries.

Educational Requirements

Most Security Researcher positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for more advanced roles. A strong foundation in programming, networking, and systems architecture is essential. Additionally, coursework or experience in cryptography, ethical hacking, and threat analysis can be highly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications and are often valued by employers. Some of the most recognized certifications in the field include:

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

These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and a recognized level of expertise.

Required Experience

Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 3 to 5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. Experience in roles such as penetration testing, security analysis, or network administration can be particularly relevant. Hands-on experience with security tools, incident response, and vulnerability assessment is often required. Demonstrating a track record of successfully identifying and mitigating security threats can be a significant advantage.

Related salaries

Want to contribute?