Security Researcher Salary in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average Security Researcher salary lies between USD 125,100 and USD 233,200 in the United States. 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: Jan. 12, 2025

Salary trend

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 | 385 jobs Vulnerabilities | 264 jobs Cloud | 247 jobs Computer Science | 239 jobs C | 237 jobs Reverse engineering | 194 jobs Malware | 190 jobs Linux | 166 jobs Windows | 149 jobs Exploits | 132 jobs Exploit | 128 jobs Scripting | 116 jobs Automation | 110 jobs TTPs | 100 jobs Machine Learning | 93 jobs SQL | 91 jobs Java | 88 jobs EDR | 86 jobs Pentesting | 83 jobs Threat intelligence | 82 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 | 390 jobs Medical leave | 282 jobs Equity / stock options | 180 jobs Health care | 169 jobs Salary bonus | 134 jobs Parental leave | 128 jobs Flex hours | 118 jobs Team events | 107 jobs Flex vacation | 96 jobs Insurance | 90 jobs Startup environment | 79 jobs Competitive pay | 68 jobs Conferences | 64 jobs Wellness | 46 jobs 401(k) matching | 38 jobs Relocation support | 32 jobs Home office stipend | 31 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 28 jobs Transparency | 27 jobs Gear | 17 jobs

Salary Composition

In the United States, the salary composition for a Security Researcher 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 profit-sharing.

• Fixed Base Salary: This is the guaranteed portion of your salary and usually constitutes the majority of your total compensation. In tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City, the base salary might be higher due to the cost of living and competitive job market.

• Bonuses: Performance bonuses are common and can be based on individual performance, team performance, or company-wide success. These bonuses can range from 10% to 20% of the base salary, depending on the company and industry.

• Additional Remuneration: This can include stock options, especially in tech companies or startups, and profit-sharing plans. Larger companies might offer more comprehensive benefits packages, including retirement plans and health insurance, which can add significant value to the overall compensation.

Increasing Salary

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

• Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focus on niche areas within cybersecurity, such as threat intelligence, malware analysis, or cloud security, 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 valuable to employers.

• Gain Leadership Experience: Transitioning into a leadership role, such as a team lead or manager, can significantly increase your earning potential.

• Network and Build a Reputation: Attend industry conferences, contribute to open-source projects, and publish research to build your reputation and network within the cybersecurity community.

Educational Requirements

Most Security Researcher 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 advanced roles. Relevant coursework in network security, cryptography, and computer forensics can be particularly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. Some of the most recognized certifications in the field include:

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

Required Experience

Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 3-5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. Experience in roles such as penetration testing, security analysis, or incident response can be particularly valuable. Hands-on experience with security tools and technologies, as well as a strong understanding of network protocols and security architectures, is often required.

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