Security Specialist Salary in 2024
💰 The median Security Specialist Salary in 2024 is USD 111,812
✏️ This salary info is based on 460 individual salaries reported during 2024
Salary details
The average Security Specialist salary lies between USD 83,090 and USD 144,325 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.
- Job title
- Security Specialist
- Experience
- all levels
- Region
- global/worldwide
- Salary year
- 2024
- Sample size
- 460
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- Top 25%
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- Median
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- Bottom 25%
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All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.
Last updated:Salary trend
Top 20 Job Tags for Security Specialist roles
The three most common job tag items assiciated with Security Specialist 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 | 902 jobs Cloud | 656 jobs CISSP | 567 jobs Vulnerabilities | 545 jobs Monitoring | 530 jobs Risk management | 499 jobs Computer Science | 470 jobs NIST | 449 jobs Audits | 418 jobs Clearance | 415 jobs Risk assessment | 389 jobs Incident response | 365 jobs Governance | 337 jobs Firewalls | 335 jobs Network security | 303 jobs Strategy | 291 jobs CISM | 277 jobs ISO 27001 | 270 jobs Azure | 269 jobs SIEM | 264 jobsTop 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Security Specialist roles
The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Security Specialist 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 | 868 jobs Health care | 585 jobs Flex hours | 445 jobs Team events | 356 jobs Competitive pay | 322 jobs Equity / stock options | 286 jobs Insurance | 286 jobs Startup environment | 235 jobs Medical leave | 193 jobs Flex vacation | 192 jobs 401(k) matching | 190 jobs Parental leave | 189 jobs Salary bonus | 160 jobs Wellness | 156 jobs Relocation support | 56 jobs Fitness / gym | 47 jobs Flexible spending account | 40 jobs Gear | 32 jobs Conferences | 30 jobs Transparency | 27 jobsSalary Composition for a Security Specialist
The salary composition for a Security Specialist can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary is composed of a fixed base salary, which forms the bulk of the compensation package. In the United States, for instance, the base salary might 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 range from 10% to 20% of the total salary. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies, and benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development allowances. In regions with a high cost of living, such as the San Francisco Bay Area or New York City, salaries might be higher to compensate for living expenses. Similarly, larger companies or those in high-demand industries like finance or technology may offer more competitive compensation packages.
Steps to Increase Salary from a Security Specialist Position
To increase your salary from a Security 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 penetration testing, 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. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity will also make you a more attractive candidate for salary negotiations.
Educational Requirements for a Security Specialist
Most Security 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. Continuous learning is crucial in this field, so engaging in workshops, seminars, and online courses can also be beneficial.
Helpful Certifications for a Security Specialist
Certifications are highly valued in the cybersecurity field and can significantly enhance your qualifications. Some of the most recognized certifications include:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, often leading to better job prospects and higher salaries.
Experience Required for a Security Specialist
Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 2-5 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity roles. Experience in roles such as network administrator, systems analyst, or IT support can provide a solid foundation. Hands-on experience with security tools, threat analysis, and incident response is crucial. Employers also value experience in specific industries, as different sectors may have unique security challenges and compliance requirements.
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