Security Specialist Salary in United States during 2023

Salary details

The average Security Specialist salary lies between USD 62,000 and USD 120,000 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: Dec. 15, 2024

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 Monitoring. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Compliance | 212 jobs Cloud | 134 jobs Monitoring | 123 jobs Risk management | 114 jobs Vulnerabilities | 111 jobs CISSP | 110 jobs Computer Science | 100 jobs NIST | 91 jobs Incident response | 88 jobs Audits | 84 jobs Automation | 81 jobs Risk assessment | 78 jobs Privacy | 75 jobs Governance | 72 jobs Firewalls | 71 jobs SOC | 71 jobs Azure | 68 jobs Linux | 68 jobs Clearance | 68 jobs CISM | 67 jobs

Top 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, Team events and Flex hours. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 214 jobs Team events | 163 jobs Flex hours | 130 jobs Health care | 109 jobs Startup environment | 95 jobs Competitive pay | 92 jobs Equity / stock options | 70 jobs Flex vacation | 55 jobs Insurance | 46 jobs Parental leave | 45 jobs Medical leave | 42 jobs Salary bonus | 35 jobs 401(k) matching | 32 jobs Conferences | 31 jobs Wellness | 26 jobs Home office stipend | 23 jobs Fitness / gym | 16 jobs Gear | 13 jobs Transparency | 11 jobs Relocation support | 11 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for a Security Specialist in the United States typically comprises a base salary, bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. The base salary is the fixed component and usually forms the bulk of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company and industry. For instance, tech companies or financial institutions might offer substantial performance-based bonuses. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech startups, or comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The composition can also vary by region, with higher salaries often found in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or major cities like New York, where the cost of living is higher.

Steps to Increase Salary

To increase your salary from the position of a Security Specialist, consider the following strategies:

• Skill Enhancement: Continuously update your skills and knowledge in emerging technologies and security threats. Specializing in niche areas like cloud security or ethical hacking can make you more valuable.
• Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications that are recognized in the industry, which can lead to higher-paying roles.
• Networking: Build a strong professional network. Engaging with industry groups and attending conferences can open up new opportunities.
• Advanced Education: Pursue further education, such as a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, which can qualify you for higher-level positions.
• Leadership Roles: Aim for leadership or managerial roles within your organization, which typically come with higher pay.

Educational Requirements

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 be advantageous. Advanced positions might require a master's degree or specialized training in cybersecurity.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications are highly valued in the cybersecurity field and can significantly enhance your credentials. Some of the most recognized certifications include:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate for higher-paying roles.

Experience Requirements

Typically, a Security Specialist role requires 2-5 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity. Experience in roles such as network administrator, systems analyst, or IT support can be beneficial. Employers often look for hands-on experience with security tools, incident response, and risk assessment. Advanced positions may require more extensive experience, including leadership roles or project management.

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