Introduction
More and more companies and governments need help to keep their data safe from hackers. Because of this, the need for cybersecurity workers is growing fast. If you’re new to this field, starting with an entry level cybersecurity jobs is a great way to begin. These jobs give you real experience and can lead to better-paying roles in the future.
In this article, we’ll go over 10 of the best beginner jobs in cybersecurity, what each job involves, what skills you need, how much you can earn and current job openings.
Understanding the Cybersecurity Landscape
Cybersecurity is more important now than ever before. Every day, businesses and governments face more online threats from hackers. To stay safe, they need to protect their data, secure their computer systems, and stop attacks before they happen.
That’s why cybersecurity professionals are so important—they help keep everything running smoothly and protect companies from losing money or damaging their reputations.
Because cyber threats are always changing, companies are hiring more people to help protect their systems. This means there are lots of job openings for people who want to start a career in this field. Entry level cybersecurity jobs are a great way to begin, offering hands-on experience and a path to long-term career growth in a stable and high-demand industry.
Benefits of Pursuing a Career in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity offers job security, especially for those beginning with entry level cybersecurity jobs, and stability due to the high demand for professionals in this field. With cyber threats becoming more advanced, companies and organizations continuously seek skilled individuals to protect their data and infrastructure. This creates numerous opportunities for both beginners and experienced professionals looking to advance in their careers.
In addition to job security, cybersecurity professionals enjoy competitive salaries and ample opportunities for career advancement. The field is diverse, with various specializations such as ethical hacking, security analysis, digital forensics, and cloud security.
Moreover, the industry encourages continuous learning, providing professionals with ongoing training, certifications, and skill enhancement programs to stay ahead of emerging threats.It’s no surprise that many people are starting their entry level cyber security careers and quickly moving into more specialized roles.
Top 10 Entry Level Cybersecurity Jobs
Top companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco actively seek cybersecurity talent, offering competitive salary packages and career growth opportunities. Google’s cybersecurity roles often start at $80,000, while Microsoft and IBM offer entry level cybersecurity jobs ranging from $137,000 to $100,000, depending on experience and location.
Anecdotes from industry professionals reveal how many began as Security Analysts or IT Support Specialists before advancing into specialized roles like Penetration Testing or Digital Forensics. These real-life experiences highlight the accessibility of entry level cyber security careers and the potential for rapid advancement.
A career in cybersecurity begins with foundational roles that provide hands-on experience and exposure to security operations. Security Analysts are among the most sought-after professionals, as they play a crucial role in protecting an organization’s digital assets from cyber threats.
1. Security Analyst
A Security Analyst is one of the most common jobs in entry level cybersecurity jobs. It is responsible for monitoring an organization’s IT infrastructure to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats. They analyze security breaches, implement security measures, and maintain system defenses.
- Responsibilities:
- Monitor security systems and identify vulnerabilities.
- Investigate security incidents and escalate threats.
- Implement firewalls and antivirus solutions.
- Required Skills: Network security, risk assessment, SIEM tools (Splunk, QRadar).
- Salary Range: $60,000 – $90,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
2. IT Support Specialist (Cybersecurity Focus)
IT Support Specialists with a cybersecurity focus help organizations maintain secure IT environments by troubleshooting security-related issues and assisting users in following security best practices.This position is ideal for those starting their entry level cyber security career.
- Responsibilities:
- Provide IT support while ensuring security compliance.
- Help implement security patches and software updates.
- Educate employees on cybersecurity awareness.
- Required Skills: Troubleshooting, network protocols, endpoint protection.
- Salary Range: $45,000 – $70,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
3. Incident Response Analyst
Incident Response Analysts play a critical role in handling cybersecurity breaches and minimizing damage by investigating threats, containing incidents, and preventing future attacks.It’s one of the more dynamic cybersecurity jobs entry level candidates can pursue.
- Responsibilities:
- Investigate security incidents and analyze breaches.
- Work with forensic tools to track cyber threats.
- Develop incident response plans.
- Required Skills: Digital forensics, threat intelligence, scripting (Python, Bash).
- Salary Range: $55,000 – $85,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
4. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
SOC Analysts monitor security alerts in real-time and take immediate action against potential threats, working closely with security teams to protect an organization’s digital assets.This is a fast-paced entry level cybersecurity jobs ideal for individuals who enjoy real-time problem-solving.
- Responsibilities:
- Monitor security logs for suspicious activity.
- Respond to security threats and escalate major incidents.
- Improve security monitoring tools and strategies.
- Required Skills: SIEM platforms, log analysis, threat detection.
- Salary Range: $50,000 – $80,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
5. Penetration Testing Assistant
Penetration Testing Assistants work under ethical hackers to identify weaknesses in an organization’s systems and applications before real attackers can exploit them.
- Responsibilities:
- Assist in running penetration tests.
- Document vulnerabilities and suggest fixes.
- Use ethical hacking tools for security assessments.
- Required Skills: Kali Linux, penetration testing tools (Metasploit, Burp Suite).
- Salary Range: $55,000 – $85,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
6. Compliance Analyst
Compliance Analysts help ensure organizations meet cybersecurity standards. This role is a strategic choice for those seeking entry level cybersecurity jobs, offering experience in audits, risk assessments, and regulatory documentation.
- Responsibilities: Conduct internal audits, assist in risk assessments, maintain regulatory documentation.
- Required Skills: Attention to detail, knowledge of compliance standards, documentation skills.
- Salary Range: $50,000 – $75,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
7. Junior Cybersecurity Consultant
Junior Cybersecurity Consultants assess systems and support policy implementation. It’s one of the cybersecurity jobs entry level professionals can grow into quickly, combining technical skills with client-facing experience for rapid career development.
- Responsibilities: Assist in assessments, gather client requirements, support implementation of security solutions.
- Required Skills: Strong analytical and interpersonal skills, familiarity with risk frameworks.
- Salary Range: $60,000 – $85,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
8. Cloud Security Associate
With the rise of cloud platforms, Cloud Security Associate roles are among the top entry level cybersecurity jobs, helping organizations secure environments like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud through monitoring, configuration, and compliance support.
- Responsibilities: Support secure cloud deployments, monitor for vulnerabilities, help enforce identity and access management policies.
- Required Skills: Understanding of cloud platforms, IAM, cloud security tools.
- Salary Range: $55,000 – $90,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
9. Digital Forensics Assistant
Digital Forensics Assistants help investigate cybercrimes by recovering data, analyzing devices, and preserving digital evidence—making it a valuable starting point for entry level cybersecurity jobs focused on law enforcement or private investigations.
- Responsibilities: Recover deleted files, analyze logs, assist in forensic reporting.
- Required Skills: Use of tools like EnCase, Autopsy; attention to detail.
- Salary Range: $55,000 – $80,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
10. Cybersecurity Awareness Trainer
Cybersecurity Awareness Trainers educate staff on best practices, helping build a human firewall. It’s ideal for those seeking entry level cybersecurity jobs that emphasize communication over technical skills.
- Responsibilities: Design awareness programs, conduct training sessions, evaluate learning outcomes.
- Required Skills: Communication, presentation, and a strong grasp of cybersecurity fundamentals.
- Salary Range: $50,000 – $75,000.
Click here for more info: Indeed Jobs
Education and Certifications for Cybersecurity Careers
Cybersecurity education is crucial for aspiring professionals pursuing entry level cybersecurity jobs, as it provides the essential skills and knowledge to secure digital assets. From top universities to online courses, there are options to fit every budget and learning style.
Top Universities Offering Cybersecurity Degrees:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Offers advanced programs covering network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking.
- Stanford University: Provides comprehensive courses in cybersecurity principles, including hands-on experiences.
- Carnegie Mellon University: Known for its Information Networking Institute, offering specialized cybersecurity degrees.
- Western Governors University (WGU): Offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, focusing on risk management, security compliance, and digital forensics.
Online Platforms Offering Cybersecurity Courses:
- Coursera: Partners with universities and organizations to offer courses in penetration testing, cloud security, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Course durations and fees vary;
- Udemy: Provides budget-friendly, self-paced courses on various cybersecurity topics. Prices range from $20 to $200, with frequent discounts available.
- TryHackMe: Offers hands-on, interactive cybersecurity training suitable for beginners and advanced learners. Subscription plans start at $10 per month.
Essential Certifications:
- CompTIA Security+: Covers fundamental cybersecurity concepts, ideal for beginners. The exam fee is approximately $392.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques. In India, the exam voucher costs around $950 (approximately ₹78,000). Training programs vary, with online courses ranging between ₹25,000 and ₹40,000, and classroom training from ₹30,000 to ₹50,000.
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Validates technical skills in cybersecurity fundamentals. The exam consists of 106 questions with a time limit of 4 hours and a minimum passing score of 73%.
- AWS Certified Security – Specialty: Demonstrates expertise in securing AWS cloud environments. The exam fee is approximately $300.
What to Do After Completing Your Education
After completing a cybersecurity degree or certification, the next step is gaining practical experience and preparing for job interviews. While some candidates immediately apply to large companies like Google, Microsoft, and IBM, others build their portfolios first.
Working on personal cybersecurity projects, participating in bug bounty programs, and contributing to open-source contributions are great ways to gain visibility in the entry level cybersecurity jobs market.
Networking is also a key factor in securing a job. Attending cybersecurity conferences, joining professional associations like (ISC)² and ISACA, and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn can open up job opportunities. Aspiring cybersecurity professionals should also consider entry-level positions or internships before transitioning into full-time roles to gain industry exposure.
Conclusion
Breaking into cybersecurity doesn’t require years of experience—just the right skills, certifications, and dedication. These entry level cybersecurity jobs offer excellent career opportunities, competitive salaries, and long-term growth potential. By obtaining relevant education, gaining hands-on experience, and networking you can unlock the doors to entry level cyber security careers and thrive in a secure and rewarding industry, Start your journey today!
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