How To Get a Cyber Security Job

Find a Job in Cyber Security

With an increased level of cyber crime and even internet espionage and terrorism from other countries, the demand for cyber security experts is likely to increase. This high paying field is demanding and requires security experts to constantly keep up with growing computer threats, attacks and changing technology. The great majority of companies have computer networks and must have cyber security personnel to protect themselves.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Specialized education
• Knowledge of computer networks

1. Get the facts on the potential job duties. Cyber security experts guard computer systems, networks and data accessible on the Internet. They install, tweak and monitor computer systems and online networks. They also might be involved in software development that improves or enhances computer security.

2. Focus on the education needed. Most of the jobs in computer security require an undergraduate degree in software engineering or computer science. Government, software companies and consulting firms seek out people with advanced degrees in computer science or system design. Many community colleges offer two-year associate's degrees or certificate programs. Some basic classes cover training in Windows or Linux networks, computer programming, local area networks, intrusion detection, wide area networks and network protocols. Classes in criminal justice, business and ethics are sometimes part of the curricula.

3. Leverage your existing experience with certification. If you already have a bachelor's degree in computer science or something related, think about taking a shorter certification class or apply for certification. It might be possible if you have the right job to get your employer to pay for the certification also.

4. Specialize in a subset of cyber security such as cyber forensics, which is also known as digital forensics. Data forensics experts track down cyber criminals. There is opportunity in government agencies and the FBI for these jobs, especially in anything involving Homeland Security.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a security clearance, you will have an advantage in finding a job

References

• United States Department of Labor Bureau Statistics: Jobs in Homeland Security
• GCN; How DOD's Cybersecurity Certification Program for Personnel Works; Ben Bain; June 30, 2009