They make sure that the systems perform the way they are supposed to, and that they are safe from attack. There are a number of network-oriented professional cybersecurity organizations and groups that are specifically designed to alert members about job openings and professional development opportunities. Since cybersecurity how to become a security specialist professionals frequently work with teams to resolve and prevent issues, you’ll also want to develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, and adaptability. Cybersecurity is the process of protecting an organization’s computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access or damage.

• Undergraduate majors like cybersecurity, computer science, and computer forensics can provide candidates with the skills to pursue security specialist jobs.
• Welcome to ITCareerFinder, a website designed to help IT pros advance their careers.
• Start your journey to becoming a security specialist by earning one of these certifications.
• The job often entails coaching and training co-workers on security best practices.
• Learn more about the responsibilities, duties, and daily tasks of security specialists and how they make a difference in their companies.
• In all professions, networking offers a reliable pathway to finding job opportunities.

Internships can help security specialist hopefuls gain the experience needed for certification and high-level positions. Since most employers expect certification, the first step involves experience. Candidates with a college degree may enjoy higher pay and more advancement potential.

How to Get a Cybersecurity Job in Chicago

Since most businesses store financial, statistical, and customer data online, cybersecurity specialists — also called security specialists — can work in many industries. Entry-level positions often involve developing code, troubleshooting problems, and testing malware. Chicago, a city with its iconic skyline, stands as a testament to progress and innovation. Amidst the architectural marvels, Chicago’s cybersecurity landscape thrives, offering a wide range of opportunities for professionals seeking impactful careers. Due to the delicacy of digital assets, entry-level cybersecurity jobs require more technical expertise than other fields.

You can also check out these in-demand cybersecurity jobs and entry-level jobs, and this career guide that points you toward detailed articles on specific entry-, mid-, and senior-level roles. Today, hackers are growing more sophisticated and security breaches are becoming more frequent. There is a need to protect against risks and threats to an organization’s data. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reports that 47 percent of adults in the US have had their personal data exposed by cyber criminals [1]. If you take into account that a data breach can cost an average of $9.44 million in the US, it’s clear why there is high demand for cybersecurity [2].

Become an IT Security Specialist

These companies may hold job fairs, put on conferences and provide resources for connecting with peers and employers. Consider some of the following professional organizations for cybersecurity workers. As a discipline within network engineering, this field covers protection against breaches for interconnected electronics https://remotemode.net/ rather than individual databases or devices. Network security professionals use firewalls, physical hardware and education efforts to safeguard against intrusions and retain lost data. Some experts say the fields of cybersecurity, network security, information security and infrastructure security are all different.