Businesses are crying out for cybersecurity workers. According to Cybersecurity Ventures,
the number of unfilled cybersecurity jobs worldwide grew by a whopping 350% between 2013 and 2021 — exploding from 1 million to 3.5 million.
In the U.S., the cybersecurity workforce had more than 950,000 workers in 2021, reporting that 500,000 jobs were yet to be filled.
If the predictions are accurate, the sector will only grow. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that “information security analyst” will be the 10th fastest growing occupation over the next decade, with an employment growth rate of 31%. This compares to an average growth rate of 4% across all occupations.
You’re probably not surprised. From preventing attacks to keeping systems safe to designing and building systems with different applications, there is a huge range of career opportunities in the cybersecurity industry.
Salaries are high, but the skill set is rapidly evolving, too, as every new technology needs to have a digital security component.
Top Cybersecurity Skills
So, if your resume is going to stand out, you’ll need to understand the top five cybersecurity skills employers demand in 2024. Below you’ll learn about each one, so you can prepare for your next job today.
You can also start searching for cybersecurity roles by visiting the Hackr.io Job Board.
1. Cybersecurity analytics
Understanding cybersecurity and data analytics are at the top of employers' demand lists for people who can help safeguard digital assets. This helps you track and spot trends. You can also better understand system behaviors to help you identify and investigate security threats. Whether it’s external malware, targeted attacks, and malicious insiders, being skilled with analytics can help you potentially prevent breaches from happening in the first place.
2. Network security and infrastructure design
Network security and infrastructure design skills are essential in this field. New devices and network systems are always being created and ripe for cyber exploitation. Employers need talented people who can securely set up networks and systems, so they don't have to worry about hackers attacking their data.
The Cybersecurity Engineer - Lead role at Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority will build a state-of-the-art cybersecurity program to better protect the critical transit infrastructure supporting Washington, DC. You’ll be responsible for determining system security requirements, designing the security layout or architecture of the system or network, and determining the required security tools and existing tool functionality. Find out more.
Suggested Course
Cyber Security: From Beginner to Expert (2024)
3. Cryptography/Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
A cryptography or PKI specialist is generally required for applications that transmit sensitive data. This is a particularly good skill if you want to work in Fintech, financial services, Medtech, or pharma, all of which require stringent measures to control access to sensitive information.
In addition, this skill set is vital when establishing secure connections between two computers, mobile devices, or other electronic equipment. Cryptography specialists are expected to continue playing a critical role in developing new solutions to address emerging threats such as cybersecurity breaches involving ransomware and cryptojacking.
In the role of Cybersecurity Sustainment Engineer - NISSC at Zivaro Inc, one of your responsibilities will be to identify, report, track, and prepare recommendations for mitigation of cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities. Want to know more? Read the full job description here.
4. Privacy law and information governance
This area will only become more important as privacy laws tighten and information governance is scrutinized. The availability of personal data is exploding, which will increase the potential for privacy breaches, fines, and other complications. Companies may also find it useful to hire professionals with these skills because they can help determine if something is legal or not before launching an app or service.
If your skills are more towards project management, this IT Project Manager - Cybersecurity at Tellus Solutionsmay be a good fit. You will work with the Cybersecurity team to oversee a variety of projects dedicated to the task of reducing risk in our environment. Find out more here.
5. Threat intelligence
Threat intelligence professionals search for vulnerabilities in data networks and research the latest cyber threats. They work with cybersecurity professionals, law enforcement, and government agencies to help ensure data is safe from hackers.
One of the most important things they do is uncover the specific strategies cybercriminals are using so that corporations can defend themselves. They also work to develop predictive models to show where future attacks may occur based on trends.
Are you looking for a new programming career? Check out the latest listings on the Hackr.io Job Board.
