Cybersecurity

How to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer? A Complete Guide

Written by Karin Kelley
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Updated on January 23, 2024

The cyber threat landscape is getting hotter than ever. Did you know that hackers strike, on average, 2,244 times a day? According to the 2023 Cyber Security Report, cyber attacks increased by 38 percent in 2022, leading to a loss of revenue and reputation for businesses. Not surprisingly, the demand for talented cybersecurity engineers is skyrocketing.

If you’re passionate about technology and want to build a career protecting the virtual realm, becoming a cyber security engineer might be your calling.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to become a cybersecurity engineer. From the essential cybersecurity qualifications and certifications to useful resources, get you started in this ever-evolving field.

Who is a Cybersecurity Engineer?

A cybersecurity engineer is a professional who protects computer systems and networks from digital attacks. They are highly skilled in various aspects of cybersecurity, such as network security, threat detection and response, risk assessment, and compliance. They work to identify and mitigate security risks and vulnerabilities and develop effective security strategies and solutions. They also work to ensure that systems comply with legal and industry standards for security and data privacy.

In short, a cybersecurity engineer is responsible for keeping computer systems and networks safe and secure from potential organizational threats.

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Roles and Responsibilities of a Cybersecurity Engineer

Before we go into how to become a cybersecurity engineer, let’s explore what they are expected to do on a day-to-day basis.

Evaluating Security Needs

A cybersecurity engineer’s first responsibility is to evaluate an organization’s security needs. This includes assessing the system’s current state, determining potential risks, and establishing best practices and standards accordingly. They work closely with other IT professionals and management to understand the organization’s operations and objectives to ensure they align with the security plan.

Designing and Implementing Security Measures

Once the security needs have been evaluated, the cybersecurity engineer designs and implements security measures and protocols to safeguard the organization’s data, systems, and networks. This includes developing and installing firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems.

Responding to Security Breaches

In the event of a security breach, the cybersecurity engineer is responsible for responding to the incident promptly. They investigate the cause of the breach, determine the extent of the damage, and take measures to prevent future breaches from occurring. This includes implementing new security measures and protocols to protect the organization’s data and systems.

Troubleshooting Security Issues

The cybersecurity engineer troubleshoots all network and security issues and incidents. This includes addressing system failures, fixing security gaps, and resolving any technical problems that may arise. They are also responsible for ensuring that all security protocols operate correctly, including regular system backups and disaster recovery plans.

Performing Pentesting, Regular Audits, and Assessments

Penetration testing, commonly referred to as pen-testing, is an essential aspect of a cybersecurity engineer’s role. It involves conducting simulated cyber attacks on an organization’s computer systems, networks, and applications to identify vulnerabilities that malicious attackers could exploit.

To stay ahead of potential threats, the cybersecurity engineer routinely conducts security audits and risk assessments. This includes reviewing logs, identifying vulnerabilities, and testing the system’s security through penetration testing.

Staying Up-to-Date with Latest Security Technologies and Trends

Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, and it’s crucial for cybersecurity engineers to stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends. They attend conferences, read industry publications, and engage in ongoing education to ensure they are current on cybersecurity advancements.

Implementing Change Management

The cybersecurity engineer plays an active role in the organization’s change management process. They review proposed changes to systems or networks to ensure they meet the organization’s security requirements. This includes reviewing new software and hardware installations, system upgrades, and changes to policies and procedures.

Handling Routine Administrative Tasks

A cybersecurity engineer is responsible for handling routine administrative tasks such as reporting and keeping open lines of communication with the organization’s appropriate departments. They create reports on system and network security and communicate the results to management and other stakeholders.

Also Read: Highlighting the Ten Best Cybersecurity Courses

Cybersecurity Engineer Skills & Qualifications

Cybersecurity engineers require a unique set of technical and soft skills to effectively protect organizations from cyber threats. If you are an aspiring cybersecurity engineer, here are the skills and cybersecurity qualifications you need to master.

Technical Skills Required to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer

Cybersecurity engineers must possess a range of technical skills to be able to perform their job effectively. Here are some of the technical skills required:

Networking: Cybersecurity engineers should be well-versed in various networking technologies and understand how networks operate, including firewalls, routers, switches, and VPNs. This helps them protect the organization’s networks against cyber threats and mitigate security risks.
Programming: Programming is a key skill required for cybersecurity engineers as they need to have knowledge of programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++, as well as scripting languages like PowerShell and Bash to develop and automate security tools and scripts for testing and securing systems.
Security tools: Cybersecurity engineers should have a solid understanding of various security tools, including intrusion detection systems, antivirus software, firewalls, and other tools used to protect networks and systems from cyber threats.
Operating systems: Operating systems are crucial components of computer systems, and cybersecurity engineers must have a comprehensive understanding of different operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Risk assessment: Cybersecurity engineers should be able to identify potential vulnerabilities and risks in the organization’s network and systems and develop strategies to mitigate them.
Penetration testing: They should be able to perform penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities and test the effectiveness of security measures.
Incident response: Cybersecurity engineers must be able to respond promptly to security incidents and contain any potential threats to the organization’s network and systems.
Cloud security: They should be knowledgeable about cloud security and able to design and implement security measures for cloud-based systems.
Mobile security: Cybersecurity engineers should be able to design and implement security measures for mobile devices and applications.

Soft Skills Required to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer

In addition to technical skills, cybersecurity engineers should also possess certain soft skills essential for success in this field. Some of the essential soft skills include:

Communication: Cybersecurity engineers must have excellent communication skills to effectively communicate complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
Problem-solving: Cybersecurity engineers should be able to think critically and solve complex problems.
Teamwork: Cybersecurity engineers should be able to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with other professionals.
Attention to detail: Cybersecurity engineers should be detail-oriented and able to identify potential security risks.

Educational Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is typically required to become a cybersecurity engineer. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, some employers may prefer or require a master’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field. This can provide a more specialized and advanced understanding of cybersecurity concepts, technologies, and practices. Pursuing higher education in this field can also help cybersecurity engineers stand out from other candidates and open up more opportunities for career advancement.

Available Certifications for Cybersecurity Engineers

Certifications are also essential for cybersecurity engineers. Here are some of the top certifications that cybersecurity engineers can pursue:

Security+ offered by CompTIA

This certificate covers a broad range of topics, including attacks, threats, vulnerabilities, architecture and design, implementation, operation and incident response, and governance, risk, and compliance. The certificate is universally recognized and is an excellent starting point for those entering the cybersecurity field.

Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP) offered by ISC2:

This certification is considered one of the foremost cybersecurity certifications and covers various concentrations. ISC2 provides information on who the certifications are best suited for and how you can benefit from them.

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) offered by CompTIA

This advanced level certification requires an understanding of risk management, enterprise security architecture & operations, enterprise security integration, research, development, and cooperation. It is an excellent choice for those who are seeking to further their knowledge in the cybersecurity field.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Certification offered by the EC Council

This certification focuses on commercial hacking techniques, tools, and methodologies modern hackers use. The program offers hands-on hacking challenges that can be an eye-opener and is important for those who want to specialize in penetration testing and ethical hacking.

Also Read: The Top Cybersecurity Interview Questions

How to Become a Cybersecurity Engineer: 5 Key Steps

Step 1: Develop the necessary technical skills and knowledge

To become a cybersecurity engineer, you will need a solid foundation in technical skills such as networking, programming, and operating systems. Here are some ways you can develop these skills:

Take online courses or attend cybersecurity bootcamps to learn about topics such as network security, cryptography, and penetration testing.
Practice using different cybersecurity tools and technologies in a simulated environment.
Build your own cybersecurity projects and experiment with different techniques.

Step 2: Obtain a relevant degree or certification

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field can help you develop a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of cybersecurity. You can try your hands at certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) to demonstrate your expertise.

Step 3: Gain experience in the cybersecurity field

Many cybersecurity jobs require some level of experience, so it’s important to gain practical experience through internships, entry-level jobs, or volunteer work. Some ways to gain experience include:

Working as a security analyst, network administrator, or other entry-level cybersecurity positions.
Participating in cybersecurity competitions and challenges to sharpen your skills.
Contributing to open-source cybersecurity projects to gain exposure and build your portfolio.

Step 4: Network with other cybersecurity professionals

Networking with other cybersecurity professionals can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the field. A great way to do this is to join cybersecurity communities, attend industry conferences and events, and participate in online forums and discussion groups.

Step 5: Keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies

Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field, so it’s important to stay informed about the latest developments and trends. Some ways to keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies include:

Reading cybersecurity blogs, news sites, and publications.
Following cybersecurity experts on social media and professional networks.
Participating in cybersecurity training programs and webinars.

The Scope of Cybersecurity Engineer as a Career

Demand for Cybersecurity Engineers in Various Industries

As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more complex, the demand for cybersecurity engineers is growing rapidly across various industries.

Some of the industries where cybersecurity engineers are in high demand include:

Financial services
Healthcare
Information technology
Manufacturing
Retail
Government

Potential Cybersecurity Career Paths and Job Opportunities

Cybersecurity engineering offers a wide range of career paths and job opportunities. Here are some of the most common roles to help you understand how to become a cybersecurity engineer:

Security analyst: Analyzes an organization’s systems and data to identify vulnerabilities and threats and develops strategies to mitigate them.
Security consultant: Provides expert advice and recommendations to organizations on their security needs and the measures they can take to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
Security architect: Designs and implements secure systems and network architectures.
Penetration tester: Conducts simulated cyber attacks on an organization’s systems to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
Incident responder: Responds to security incidents and breaches and takes appropriate steps to contain and mitigate the damage.
Security manager: Oversees an organization’s cybersecurity strategy and implementation.

Salary Expectations for Cybersecurity Engineers

Cybersecurity engineers are in high demand, and as a result, they command high salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for information security analysts, which includes cybersecurity engineers, is $102,600. The salary range can vary depending on various factors, such as experience, industry, location, and certification.

Also Read: Is Cybersecurity a Good Career?

Take the Right Course to Build Your Career As a Cybersecurity Engineer

Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field with a high demand for skilled professionals. Becoming a cybersecurity engineer requires a combination of formal education, practical experience, and certifications. Taking the right courses and obtaining the necessary certifications are essential to stand out in the job market.

For an aspiring professional in this field, joining a cybersecurity bootcamp can be a great place to start on your quest to become a cybersecurity engineer. This program offers the latest tools and technologies in offensive and defensive cybersecurity, digital forensics, and more. With a course duration of just six months, this online bootcamp is an excellent opportunity to fast-track your career in this field. Join now to master cybersecurity skills and build a successful career in this exciting industry.