How to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer in 2024

Author: University of North Dakota
April 23, 2024

In a world where cybercrimes rack up trillions in damages annually, cybersecurity experts play a crucial role.

They safeguard data, mitigate financial losses, and fortify defensive security systems against evolving threats. 

However, cybersecurity is a broad term that encompasses various career paths and specific roles, each focusing on different aspects of the field. One such path is cybersecurity engineering. But what exactly does this role entail? How to become a cybersecurity engineer? What is the estimated salary for such a role? Well, keep reading to find out as we explore cyber security engineer requirements, day-to-day job duties for these professionals, salary and more.

What is a Cybersecurity Engineer?

A cybersecurity engineer is a specialized professional tasked with creating and managing the implementation of various tools and protocols designed to protect computers, networks, and sensitive data from cyber threats.

Their work involves combining elements of electrical engineering and computer science to understand the complex dynamics of cyberspace. This way, they develop security solutions and ensure their effective deployment and ongoing management to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of digital assets.

Although cybersecurity engineers may go by different titles such as Data Security Engineer or IT Security Engineer, their core responsibilities remain consistent across various organizations. Additionally, these duties may be integrated into broader IT positions in smaller companies where dedicated cybersecurity roles may be scarce.

What Does a Cybersecurity Engineer Do?

A cybersecurity engineer is tasked with various responsibilities to safeguard an organization's digital assets and infrastructure. These duties encompass:

• Assessing the security requirements of the organization and devising relevant best practices and standards.
• Designing, implementing, and maintaining comprehensive security measures to protect the organization's data, systems, and networks.
• Responding promptly to any security breaches to mitigate potential damage and restore normal operations.
• Troubleshooting network and security issues as they arise, ensuring smooth functionality.
• Conducting penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
• Taking proactive measures to safeguard the organization's infrastructure and data from potential threats.
• Performing testing and scans to detect any weaknesses in the network and system.
• Assisting in investigations of security breaches to identify root causes and prevent future incidents.
• Handling routine administrative tasks such as reporting and maintaining communication with relevant departments within the organization.

How to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer?

To excel as a cybersecurity engineer, individuals must possess a strong grasp of computer science principles and proficiency in relevant skills. These competencies can be acquired through various means, such as pursuing traditional degree programs or pursuing relevant certification programs. Attaining expertise in this field typically demands years of dedicated learning and hands-on experience. In the following sections, we will explore in more detail the required paths to becoming a successful cybersecurity engineer. 

Education

Entering the field of cybersecurity requires a strong technical background, encompassing knowledge in computer networks, coding, programming, and encryption, among other areas. While a bachelor's degree in Cyber Security or Computer Science is a common pathway to gain proficiency in these subjects, related fields such as electrical engineering or mathematics can also foster valuable skills. 

Although not mandatory, pursuing a degree is often advantageous, as evidenced by a survey conducted by ISC2, an international nonprofit information security organization. Their findings indicate that 31% of cybersecurity professionals possessed a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a closely related field upon entering the industry.

Additionally, the survey revealed that 20% of respondents obtained an advanced degree, such as a master's or Ph.D., in cybersecurity or a related field, while an additional 16% pursued advanced degrees in a field unrelated to cybersecurity.

Experience

Next, consider seeking entry-level positions in cybersecurity engineering and related fields to gain practical experience and enhance your skills. Various roles are available for newcomers to explore, including cybersecurity specialist, cybercrime analyst, incident and intrusion analyst, and cybersecurity analyst.

Data provided by ISC2 indicates that cybersecurity professionals prioritize experience over formal education when evaluating potential candidates. According to the survey, 86% of professionals value senior-level experience more than doctorate degrees, while 70% prioritize entry-level cybersecurity experience over cybersecurity bachelor's degrees, which are favored by only 30% of respondents. This highlights the importance of hands-on experience in the cybersecurity field, suggesting that employers highly value practical skills and real-world expertise.

Certification

Obtaining cybersecurity certifications can significantly enhance your competitiveness in the job market. As you pursue a career in cybersecurity engineering, consider acquiring certifications such as CompTIA's Security+ and Network+. These certifications strengthen your résumé and fulfill the prerequisites for various positions.

For intermediate-level professionals, options like ISACA's Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer and the Global Information Assurance Certification certifications can further validate your expertise in specific areas. However, the ultimate accolade in the cybersecurity realm is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, which signifies elite expertise and requires a minimum of five years of paid experience, along with a recommendation from a current CISSP holder. 

Notably, according to ISC2’s survey data, 51% of respondents obtained a cybersecurity certification before securing their first job in the field, emphasizing the value and prevalence of certifications in the cybersecurity industry.

Specialization

Specializing in specific areas of cybersecurity offers numerous benefits for professionals in the field. By focusing on a particular niche, such as network security, cryptography, or ethical hacking, individuals can deepen their expertise and knowledge within that domain. 

Specialization allows for targeted skill development and the acquisition of specialized certifications, making professionals more competitive in the job market. Additionally, specializing in a specific area can lead to opportunities for advancement, as employers often seek specialists to address specific cybersecurity challenges and projects.

Networking

Building a professional network and actively participating in cybersecurity communities and events are essential practices for cybersecurity professionals. Networking provides invaluable opportunities to connect with peers, industry experts, and potential employers, fostering knowledge sharing, collaboration, and career advancement. 

By engaging in cybersecurity communities and attending events such as conferences, workshops, and meetups, professionals can stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. Additionally, networking facilitates access to mentorship, job opportunities, and professional development resources, enhancing one's overall career trajectory.

Cyber Security Engineer Salary

The average salary range for cybersecurity engineers in the United States is approximately $102,000 to $142,000 per year. However, the overall average annual pay for cybersecurity engineers nationwide is $122,890. 

Several factors influence salary levels within this range, including years of experience, geographical location, and specialization. For example, professionals with more experience typically command higher salaries, as their expertise and skills are more valued in the market. 

Similarly, location plays a significant role, with salaries varying depending on the cost of living and demand for cybersecurity professionals in different regions. Specialization can also impact salary levels, as specialized skills are often in high demand and command higher compensation. 

How Long Does It Take to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer?

Becoming a cybersecurity engineer typically involves several years of education, experience, and certification preparation. Pursuing a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as cybersecurity or computer science, generally takes around four years to complete. However, pursuing advanced degrees, such as a master's or Ph.D., adds a few more years to the timeline. 

Next, gaining practical experience may take anywhere from one to several years, depending on available opportunities. Additionally, obtaining certifications varies in time based on the certification level and your circumstances, including prior knowledge and study habits. So, ultimately, the timeline to become a cybersecurity engineer varies depending on individual factors, but it typically spans several years of education and training.

Bottom Line

All in all, cybersecurity engineers play a critical role in safeguarding digital assets and infrastructure against ever-evolving cyber threats. Beyond this, a cybersecurity engineering career can also be highly fulfilling and financially rewarding.

With various paths available, including traditional education routes and experiential learning through certifications and hands-on experience, individuals have the flexibility to pursue a path that aligns with their interests and goals. 

If you're intrigued by the prospect of joining this field, consider pursuing it with us at UND. Our Cyber Security degree program and resources can help prepare you for a successful career as a cybersecurity engineer, where you'll have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on securing the digital world.

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