Best 5 entry-level cybersecurity jobs: Entry level and beyond in 2024

Entering the cybersecurity field might seem intimidating after achieving key milestones like graduation or entry-level certifications. The next steps can feel uncertain. The Fortinet Cybersecurity Skills Gap report reveals that 90% of leaders prefer hiring candidates with technology-focused certifications, yet 56% of firms find it challenging to attract cybersecurity talent. Despite this, the cybersecurity and IT sectors offer diverse career paths with abundant opportunities. The key is to align your interests with the roles that best suit you, knowing that your skills could meet the demands highlighted in the skills gap report.

Top 5 entry-level positions in cybersecurity

Here are some excellent entry-level cybersecurity positions to launch your career:

Network administrator

Network administrators manage and secure an organization's network infrastructure. Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, CCNA, and CISSP are often essential to validate skills in infrastructure management and security.

Average salaries: $78,801 (£27,000, €31,000)

Security analyst

Security analysts protect organizations by identifying and mitigating security threats. To excel, they typically pursue certifications such as CISSP, CompTIA Security+, and CySA+.

Average salaries: $116,000 (£41,000, €48,000)

Security consultant

Security consultants evaluate organizational security, identifying weaknesses and offering advice on enhancements. Key certifications like CISSP, CEH, and CISM demonstrate proficiency in cybersecurity areas such as risk management and ethical hacking, bolstering credibility and adherence to industry standards.

Average salaries: $101,059 (£55,000, €58,000)

Penetration tester

Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, assess an organization's security by identifying vulnerabilities. Certifications such as CEH, OSCP, and CISSP validate their skills and expertise in cybersecurity, providing a competitive advantage in the field.

Average salaries: $93,784 (£33,000, €38,000)

Security engineer

Security engineers protect organizational systems and data, often holding certifications like CISSP, CEH, CISM, and CompTIA Security+. These certifications demonstrate their proficiency across various cybersecurity domains, increasing their value within the industry.

Average salaries: $107,000 (£52,000, €61,000)

Essential skills to secure your first cybersecurity job

• Programming skills: Proficiency in programming languages like Python, PowerShell, and Bash is crucial for automating tasks and scripting to bolster security measures.
• Cloud security: Understanding how to secure cloud environments is vital as more businesses transition their data and operations to the cloud.
• Risk assessment: Conducting thorough risk assessments is pivotal for effective security planning. This entails identifying and evaluating potential risks and vulnerabilities in systems or networks.
• Encryption: Having knowledge of encryption is fundamental for safeguarding data and maintaining its confidentiality.
• Cyber threat awareness: A comprehensive understanding of cyber threats and attack methodologies enhances defense capabilities.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills: These abilities are indispensable for addressing intricate security challenges and devising innovative solutions to problems.
• Intrusion detection: Developing expertise in intrusion detection is essential for identifying threats. This involves monitoring networks for suspicious activities and responding to potential security breaches.