Cybersecurity is a growing industry that has already seen incredible expansion over the last ten years. Increasing reliance on digital technologies is helping to cut costs and maximize convenience, but it’s also leaving businesses vulnerable to hacks and security lapses. Many people are considering cybersecurity as both an interesting and profitable career path. There are a variety of different cybersecurity specialties that you might want to contemplate as you plan your future in this booming industry. 

Penetration Tester

Penetration testing is a popular place to start after getting a certification or degree in cybersecurity. This position involves looking for holes in an organization's network, and seeks to identify improvements for the system. Usually, these testers work with companies with little to no cybersecurity measures in place, making it a great entry level job, at an average salary of $45k.

Information Security Analyst

Security analysts hold a key position, and there are many job vacancies for new graduates to fill after completing the certification process. In this position, analysts work to prevent attacks within a network. Rather than consulting with a slew of companies, a security analyst looks at one company’s policies, and protects it against major threats. This position often has room to grow, which is great for those starting out, and offers competitive salaries.

Lead Software Security Engineer

This is a role to aim for after a few years of experience. Cybersecurity engineers create the software that top companies use to keep hackers out of their files and documents. A lead software security engineer hires and heads a team of security experts that monitors ongoing potential risks. If a threat is identified, the team creates software to protect against it. The annual salary for a position like this runs around $233k, so it’s definitely a more senior position, for those with some experience.

Security Architect

Before getting that security engineer job, you’ll likely be working as a security architect. On this team, you’ll be analyzing threats and recommending solutions. Afterwords, you’ll help to build a solution, which means you’ll need more education and experience before doing this job. You do get paid well for it, anywhere from $81k to $140k.

Chief Information Security Officer

The top of the top, this role puts you in charge of all cybersecurity measures for a particular system, business or organization. This comes with a ton of responsibility, but it also offers a great paycheck. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, chief executive positions usually make over $200,000 annually.

Getting Started

Think one of these roles is for you? Get started on campus or online on a cybersecurity certification or degree at LeTourneau University to jump into the cybersecurity field. With hands-on learning and experts who prepare you for a long career in this growing field, LeTourneau graduates are more likely to find jobs after graduation. In fact, LETU has a 94% graduate placement rate. If these positions sound like a promising and fulfilling career, visit LeTourneau’s website to see all that the University has to offer.