A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) manages an information security team for a private company or government organization. As more and more companies rely on technology for record-keeping and transactions, cybercrime becomes more of a threat to our economy. For this reason, there is a huge job market for a certified chief information security officer.
For those with a strong passion for online security, and a background in white hat hacking, this can be a very fulfilling and profitable career option. Even if you don’t have a background in cyber security, you can start in this industry.
So exactly what does a CISO do? How much money can you make in this field? What training and education do you need? Keep reading to find out what you need to know to land a chief information security job.
Why Would I Want To Become a Certified Chief Information Security Officer?
In today’s high-tech world, protecting information is of the utmost importance. Companies need training and skilled security information specialists who can safeguard their businesses from cyber-attacks. These cyber-attacks can include attacks on digital assets, entire information systems, sensitive intellectual property as well as other online information. Protecting this information is of utmost importance to a company’s long-term success. So, these companies are willing to pay skilled individuals very well to provide protection and security for their businesses.
CISO Salaries
If you have computer skills, seeking out a chief information security officer certification could be a very profitable career move. Because of the importance of protecting online information and digital assets today, CISO salaries have been on the rise. The crazy thing is that this is a great career option that does not take years and years of training. So, what does a chief information security officer’s salary look like?
According to LinkedIn, which is an online leader in career information, a chief information security officer’s salary can range from $114,000 to $200,000 a year. By any standard of living, in any state in the U.S. this is a great salary. Although, how much you make should not be your sole reason for choosing a career, it does help that chief information security officer salaries are some of the highest in the country.
When choosing a career path it is also important to make sure this particular field is something you are naturally skilled at as well as passionate about.
What Does a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Do?
So, what exactly is the chief information security officer job description? These professionals are trained in information security and cyber security. The chief information security officer’s job is to manage the information security team. These individuals may work in the private sector, government, educational organizations, or any entity which needs their online information secured. Obtaining a chief information security officer certification is one step toward a career in this exciting and well-paying industry.
How Do I Obtain a CISO Certification?
How do you become a chief information security officer? Most companies list in their job description that a qualified applicant will have at least a cyber security degree as well as a chief information security officer certification. It is usually a prerequisite before certification that you have a bachelor’s degree in cyber security. Many of the professionals which enjoy the high-end salaries, will also have a master’s degree in this field.
In addition to prior education and certification, qualified applicants will also possess natural skills in the technical field, experience with up-to-date online security tools and systems, a background in STEM, and an understanding of white hate hacking. Prospective CISOs should consider a Cybersecurity MBA, which combines expertise in security with managerial and business skills.
In addition to these skills, most people who enjoy this position and salary have strong ties to the digital intelligence community. Some of these skills come from a lifetime of interest and application of online security activities. Other important skills include strong communication skills as well as leadership skills.
How Can You Get Started in This Career?
Pursuing a degree in cyber security is a great start. However, most people who excel in this field have a strong passion for online security and white hat hacking. But, even if you don’t have this background, a degree in cyber security can start you in a rewarding career and salary.
Related:
- Top 10 Highest-Paying Security Careers
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- Top 10 States for Security Careers
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- Top 10 National Security Jobs
