Security experts are in demand for every asset that can be considered valuable. Like the military prevents nationwide breaches, cybersecurity deals with digital threats that may try to steal or access confidential data. The cyber-war has been raging for several decades now. However, considering the progress technology has made thus far, the need for cybersecurity is now at an all-time high. Since you’re here, you likely are interested in a similar career path. Hence, here is a list of careers in cybersecurity that have tremendous growth in the future.

Network Engineer & Architect

An imperative job that every organization requires, the role of a Network Engineer is quite intricate. Network Engineers have the responsibility of designing, constructing, and establishing computer networks. These systems include local-area networks (LANs), wide-area networks (WANs), and several other communication systems. Network Architects are responsible for upgrading the hardware and software of the organization, as well as ensuring security measures. These individuals are known to protect the system and organization from cyber threats.

Some other vital roles fulfilled by Network Engineers are to research modern technology. They also evaluate how the growth of the organization can affect the system. Furthermore, the career path requires an extensive educational background and a decent amount of experience. Network Engineers/Architects are among the most highly-paid individuals in the cybersecurity industry. If the profession interests you, you must be wondering how to become a network architect? The answer is to start with your educational background, as the job requires at least a master’s degree. After that, proceed to gain experience in the field of work. 

Cybersecurity Administrator

The responsibilities of this profession are quite similar to that of an average administrator. These professionals are responsible for monitoring and implementing cybersecurity systems and networks for a given organization. Many companies and organizations even demand multiple administrators to oversee specific sections of their security programs. These managers and administrators also supervise their designated area, compliance with policies, and maintaining their security.

While often considered the same, some organizations branch out the occupation into two roles: program security managers and technical security managers. The former is more focused on the vendor and program-related risk management. The latter caters more to monitoring security systems, as well as the teams handling them. 

Moreover, this profession requires considerable knowledge and technical expertise, alongside impressive management skills. The growth of this career path is relatively high, even though there are options with higher growth expected in the future.

Cybersecurity Consultant

With cyber threats continuously evolving, cybersecurity consultants play a crucial role in protecting an organization’s network and systems. Cybersecurity consultants are experts who incorporate a mix of aggression and defense to exploit the vulnerabilities of the organization. However, the profession is not limited to an in-house job. These professionals are either self-employed or work with third-party consultants. 

The chances of getting employed depend entirely on the client and their requirements. While some accept entry-level consultants, most prefer an intermediate consultant. Additionally, clients are likely to demand a degree, some experience, as well as technical skills before hiring you. The demand for consultants is still on the rise, mainly because of the importance cybersecurity professions have seen as of late. Many companies and organizations solely depend on cybersecurity consultants to manage their complex ventures. Therefore, cybersecurity consultants are likely to see constant growth over the years.

Cybersecurity Engineer

Widely considered the most in-demand profession in recent years, the cybersecurity engineer deals with highly advanced tasks in an organization. These engineers design and establish cybersecurity systems while incorporating an engineer’s approach to the system. These specialists are hired to erect security systems and plans, dealing with breaches, and moderating system vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity engineers are often called upon to counter the up surging security threats.

Similar to dealing with the tasks, the profession requires an extensive educational background and knowledge. The individual must be capable of handling complex tasks. These include identifying and resolving system weaknesses, track problems, and improving the systems overall. Likewise, most organizations require the engineer to have at least three years of field experience. While a bachelor’s degree may suffice, a master’s degree will significantly increase your chances of landing a job. Nevertheless, certifications always go a long way in technical fields. Therefore, obtaining certificates like CISSP, GIAC, or CEH will impact your salary and employment chances.

Cybersecurity Analyst

The analyst’s occupation often comes in a close second to cybersecurity engineers. Cybersecurity analysts supervise the organization’s network and report potential threats. They are also responsible for keeping an eye out for possible vulnerabilities in the network/system. Cybersecurity analysts use a set of threat detecting tools for gathering data and inspecting the system for any breaches. Cybersecurity engineers currently earn more than analysts; the trend is likely to change in the next few years.

Furthermore, analysts also install robust software and encrypt data. They also educate the organization on security procedures and IT trends. Cybersecurity analysts are also known to simulate cyber-attacks to pinpoint and unravel the weaknesses of the system. While analysts try preventing cybersecurity breaches, if a successful breach occurs, the analyst is responsible for devising a contingency plan. Therefore, cybersecurity analysts are required to have a profound knowledge of information systems and cryptography. Similarly, they must possess traits such as risk assessment and project management to direct the organization fittingly.

Conclusion

The continually evolving and growing field of technology will likely bring forth many new career options in the future. Likewise, as the world gets digitized with each passing day, the demand for cybersecurity is likely to rise as well. With trends showing tremendous growth in the next ten years or so, now is the optimal time to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Alas, this list of career options is likely to assist you in making that decision.