Information Security Analyst Jobs

Latest Information Security Analyst Jobs Listings

What is an Information Security Analyst?

Information Security Analyst is a technology-based job in the field of cybersecurity. They work to keep a company’s data and information networks protected from cyberattacks.

Information Security Analysts  implement protective measures, such as firewalls, and keep security protocols relevant to modern threats, such as ransomware attacks, social engineering attacks, and data theft of vulnerable financial and/or personal information. They are also known by the titles of Security Analyst and Cybersecurity Analyst.

Information Security Analysts may work with other positions, such as Security Engineers, Security Architects, lawyers, and management, to monitor potential threats throughout the network and to plan proactive responses. They may work with other cybersecurity team members to identify and respond to security breaches.

Information Security Analyst is often an entry-level position. However, candidates will be more competitive with additional resume highlights, such as specialized certifications, internships, or experience.

Gaining several years of experience as an Information Security Analyst can lead to opportunities to become Network Architects, Security Managers, Information Researchers, Security Consultants, Network Administrators, Software Developers, Security Directors, and Chief Information Security Officers.

What is an Information Security Analyst responsible for?

Information Security Analysts keep a company’s vulnerable information safe from cyberattacks. They should have a good understanding of network architecture, including local area networks, wide area networks, and intranets.

Information Security Analysts should understand how data is stored, managed, and breached, and they are typically responsible for the upkeep and protection of the company’s hardware and software. Information Security Analysts should be familiar with major operating systems and database platforms. The Analysts implement protective measures within these systems and networks, such as firewalls and anti-virus software.

Information Security Analysts may work with other cybersecurity team members to perform ethical hacking of company networks to identify and offer solutions to system vulnerabilities. Hackers are continually evolving, so one of the most challenging aspects of the position is the need to stay aware of current technology and methods of cyberattack, and the evolving defensive solutions for these attacks. If a breach or attack is detected, the Analyst may help conduct an investigation and take appropriate action.

Information Security Analysts may be responsible for training the company on security issues and communicating potential threats or needs to management. They may also assist with developing metrics and reports that help to elucidate cybersecurity issues.

On the job, an Information Security Analyst can expect to:

• Problem-solve
• Manage network
• Control file access
• Install firewalls and software
• Encrypt data transmissions
• Update software
• Study current cyberattacks
• Credentialing
• Maintain firewalls
• Run penetration testing
• Perform network updates
• Hack to find vulnerabilities and weaknesses
• Train other employees
• Lead projects or investigations
• Complete daily administrative tasks, such as reports

Where does an Information Security Analyst work?

Nearly every industry needs cybersecurity in the modern world. Information Security Analyst opportunities are vast because so many different industries need assistance with data protection and information security management.

Information Security Analysts have many options when deciding on the preferred industry to enter. For example, the military, technology, energy, finance, insurance, law, banking, music, travel, retail, communications, education, and government all rely on information system maintenance and protection.

Information Security Analysts are needed in businesses of every size. There are opportunities to work alone or in small groups with smaller companies or to work on a team with various levels of security professionals in a larger company.

Information Security Analyst jobs are found everywhere in the world in every type of location and population. Individuals do not necessarily need to focus on technology-driven cities for Information Security Analyst positions. However, these cities may pay higher and provide more opportunities for jobs and job growth.

What qualifications and experience are required to be an Information Security Analyst?

At a minimum, an Information Security Analyst should have a Bachelor’s Degree in an area of study such as computer science, information security, information management, or cybersecurity. A Master’s degree in Information Security, Cybersecurity, or an MBA can help a candidate be more competitive for positions with top companies.

Cybersecurity is a broad field that serves many industries. Obtaining certifications in information management-related topics will showcase special skills, qualifications, and knowledge to prospective employers. As with many professions, certifications may be useful and necessary to advance in the career.

Certifications also provide networking opportunities and encourage continued education to maintain the certification, which helps Information Security Analysts stay relevant in the field. Professional credentials for Information Security Analysts include certified information systems security professional, global information assurance certification, or certified information systems auditor.

Information Security Analysts should have programming experience and be familiar with programming languages. They will need to know computer coding, anti-virus software, and firewall maintenance.

Because the job is to anticipate, locate, and defend against attacks and breaches, the Information Security Analyst should have a highly analytical and detail-oriented mind. Problem-solving is also a crucial skill, and analysts must stay level-headed and be flexible on the job as cyberattacks can come unexpectedly and require immediate action at the expense of all other work.

How much can an Information Security Analyst earn? 

See our salary guide detailed information on information security analyst salaries.

Information Security Analysts are in demand, and some companies are actively recruiting for cybersecurity positions. Companies offer additional benefits like mentorships and guaranteed promotion tracks to entice applicants into Information Security Analyst positions.

The average salary for an Information Security Analyst, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $103,590, or $49.80 per hour. Information Security Analyst jobs are projected to grow by 33% between 2020 and 2030, compared to 8% for all jobs. It is estimated that 47,100 additional jobs will be created by 2030, and there will be about 16,300 open positions each year due to general attrition and retirement.

Some locales may offer better pay and opportunity in the cybersecurity field. In California, Information Security Analysts make an average annual salary of $125,990.  Although the position is in demand in various industries, the online shopping, information services, and electronic component manufacturing industries pay Information Security Analysts higher, on average, than other industries.