Exploring Cybersecurity Career Paths

With cyber threats growing in complexity, frequency, and severity, high-profile organizations are willing to invest significantly in skilled cybersecurity professionals. The cybersecurity job market is projected to expand rapidly, offering stability and long-term demand for individuals with the right skill set. Whether exploring new roles or advancing in the field, understanding the career landscape and compensation can help you map out your goals.

From safeguarding sensitive data to mitigating security risks, cybersecurity professionals are at the forefront of digital defense, making this field both challenging and deeply rewarding. Kable Academy’s Cybersecurity Program is designed for all experience levels, offering guidance and support throughout the journey to becoming cybersecurity professionals.

Here’s a look at some of the most common roles in cybersecurity, including their responsibilities, what it takes to be qualified, and the salaries you can expect in each position.

Entry-Level Roles in Cybersecurity and Their Salaries

Entry-level cybersecurity roles are ideal for building foundational skills and understanding core security principles. These positions provide the groundwork for more specialized cybersecurity jobs in the future.

• Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity analysts monitor network activity, respond to potential threats, and apply security measures to protect organizational data. With salaries ranging from $60,000 to $90,000, this role requires skills in threat identification, incident response, and application security.

• Incident Responder: Incident responders play a crucial role by containing and mitigating cyber incidents as they occur. They often use forensic techniques and real-time analysis to identify the source of breaches. Salaries for incident responders generally fall between $65,000 and $95,000.

Building experience in these roles can provide a solid foundation for cybersecurity advancement. Developing skills in network troubleshooting, encryption basics, and incident response is crucial for those beginning their cybersecurity journey. Kable Academy offers flexible program options, including online and part-time schedules, making balancing education with other life responsibilities easier for students.

Mid-Level Cybersecurity Positions and Salary Potential

After gaining a few years of hands-on experience, cybersecurity professionals often move into mid-level roles focusing on strategic and technical expertise. These roles require a deeper understanding of risk management, secure network design, and regulatory compliance.

• Security Engineer: Security engineers design and implement network security measures to protect against unauthorized access. Their responsibilities include creating firewalls, setting up intrusion detection systems, and ensuring safe network protocols. Security engineers are key players in maintaining an organization’s secure infrastructure, and their average salary is between $85,000 and $120,000.

• Risk Management Specialist: Risk management specialists focus on identifying and reducing potential security risks. They are skilled in assessing vulnerabilities, enforcing secure practices, and creating long-term security protocols. Professionals in this role earn between $82,000 to $146,000.

• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker): Also known as ethical hackers, penetration testers simulate cyberattacks to expose vulnerabilities. This role requires creative problem-solving, programming skills, and a deep understanding of network systems. With salaries averaging $90,000 to $130,000, penetration testers are highly valued for their ability to identify potential weaknesses before attackers do.

Mid-level roles benefit from certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), which validate skills in risk management, ethical hacking, and advanced security measures. Investing in these certifications can also open doors to more advanced cybersecurity positions. With Kable Academy’s Cybersecurity Program, students can fast-track their education and enter the tech industry within months, making cybersecurity careers more accessible and rewarding.

Advanced-Level Cybersecurity Positions and Compensation

Advanced cybersecurity roles are highly specialized and require comprehensive knowledge of information security frameworks, risk assessment, and incident response. These positions involve more responsibility, with salaries that reflect the critical nature of their work.

• Cybersecurity Architect: Cybersecurity architects develop and oversee an organization’s overall security infrastructure. They design comprehensive security frameworks, manage technical security measures, and work closely with teams to ensure cohesive security practices. Cybersecurity architects typically earn $120,000 to $150,000, with some salaries reaching $170,000.

• Application Security Engineer: Application security engineers focus on securing software applications, collaborating with development teams to implement safe coding practices and identify vulnerabilities. With salaries ranging from $95,000 to $125,000, these professionals are essential in safeguarding an organization’s software products.

• Network Security Engineer: Network security engineers design and maintain the security measures protecting an organization’s network infrastructure. Their work includes configuring firewalls, monitoring network traffic, and quickly responding to threats. These professionals earn between $90,000 and $140,000, with top salaries for those specializing in secure network architecture.

For those in advanced roles, certifications like Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP) are valuable for demonstrating specialized expertise and enhancing earning potential. Professionals in these positions are expected to bring technical skills and strategic insights that align with organizational goals.

Senior Leadership in Cybersecurity: Top Roles and Earnings

For those aiming for the highest-paying positions in cybersecurity, senior leadership roles combine deep technical knowledge with business acumen. These positions are responsible for defining an organization’s cybersecurity strategy and managing security risks at a corporate level.

• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): As the head of an organization’s cybersecurity framework, the CISO is responsible for developing and enforcing security strategies, managing compliance, and leading responses to major security incidents. The average CISO salary is $220,000 to $275,000, making this one of the highest-paid roles in cybersecurity. CISOs work closely with other executives to ensure that cybersecurity measures align with business objectives, which requires a balance of leadership, technical expertise, and strategic vision.

• Information Security Manager: Information security managers oversee teams of security analysts, coordinate security protocols, and align security practices with organizational goals. This role, which offers salaries between $130,000 and $165,000, requires extensive knowledge of incident response, data protection, and risk management. Information security managers are critical for ensuring the consistent application of security practices across departments.

Senior cybersecurity roles require experience in technical domains like incident response and risk management, as well as certifications such as Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) or Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC). As cybersecurity threats become more complex, professionals in these roles must stay current on emerging threats and regulatory changes. 

Your Future in Cybersecurity Starts Here

With the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, there’s never been a better time to enter this dynamic field. Whether you’re starting fresh or transitioning from another career, Kable Academy’s comprehensive program and dedicated support team can help you build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in cybersecurity. The journey to a rewarding career in cybersecurity begins with a single step – take yours today.

Our Career Services team offers ongoing support to help graduates navigate their career journey, including job placement assistance and career coaching. 

Schedule an info session today to learn more about how Kable Academy can help you secure the cybersecurity career you’ve been dreaming of!