There are few fields that are more in-demand than cyber security associate degree jobs. A cyber security associate degree is the quickest route to take to become an expert in the cyber security field. Once you have your degree, a specialist in cyber security assists in many aspects of the cyber security practices of an organization. From testing current processes for weakness to teaching other members of the organization how to use the systems safely, a cyber security specialist is a vital part of any industry.
Cyber Security Associate Degree Jobs
Obtaining a cyber security associate degree takes just two years, so you can start putting your degree to work quickly. Cyber terrorists search out vulnerable companies and it is those vulnerable companies that want to hire you and gain your expertise. What will your job look like once you have your degree?
Associate cybersecurity specialists work under and alongside cyber security engineers. Their goal is to guarantee the protection of their particular company or organization’s computer and network systems. Thus, these specialists often receive tasks from cyber security engineers. Then, they utilize their computer science background and training to complete these tasks.
Cyber security specialists may interact with firewalls, programming languages, and other computer science features. Next, they work to identify threats to information by safeguarding systems before attacks can occur. Associate cyber security specialists assess IT infrastructures. Their job is to locate vulnerabilities and develop stronger security initiatives through internal processes. Often, they are required to work quickly and perform in stressful situations.
On any given day, associate cyber security specialists complete a variety of duties and responsibilities. They complete this work as a team with other associates and cyber security engineers. A cyber security team implements and maintains effective systems. The team’s objective is to keep the organization that they work for safe from hackers, cyber terrorists, and data breaches.
Infrastructures are assessed and tested for potential weaknesses and to identify any system vulnerabilities. Once these vulnerabilities are identified, the team works to secure them.
Cyber Security Certifications
Additionally, you’ll want to further your education after getting your cyber security associate’s degree to include certifications. These cyber security certifications include:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
While not required for many entry-level cyber security associate degree jobs, the certifications are a plus on your resume. They may help you land a better position or move up in your career quicker.
Cyber Security Specialist Job Outlook
Lastly, the demand for associate cyber security specialists is increasing rapidly. Demand for these jobs will only increase further as the demand for senior positions also increases.
Cyber security engineer jobs are expected to increase in demand by as much as 32 percent over the course of the next eight years. The average growth in all industries is 5%. Entry-level cyber security personnel with an associate’s degree should expect a starting salary of about $92,000. As demand for experience increases, the salary should, as well.