Information Security Analyst: Salary and Job Outlook

As data breaches and cyberattacks become more common, information security analysts are in high demand. Information security analysts protect a company’s electronic data and ensure computer systems aren’t vulnerable to attacks.

Information security analysts, sometimes called information security managers, protect sensitive information from hackers and data breaches. Organizations, large and small, depend on information security analysts to defend their data from high-tech invasions.

What exactly is an information security analyst and what do they do?

If you’re interested in technology and how to protect systems from cyber attacks, an information security analyst can be an attractive career. As high-tech criminals become more advanced, information security professionals are in demand.  

An information security analyst’s job is to keep a computer system secure and free of vulnerabilities. They analyze risks and take preventive actions, such as installing firewalls and data encryption software, and they are sometimes responsible for taking the lead when a security breach occurs.

As technology changes rapidly, organizations need to keep current with security measures. An information security analyst keeps abreast of changes or threat alerts and takes steps to reduce system vulnerability. 

Information security analysts should maintain a disaster recovery plan if a breach occurs. They need to keep current with operating systems and their vulnerabilities.

Demand is expected to be high.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate is expected to grow 35 percent for information security analysts throughout 2031, primarily as workers retire or leave the workforce for other reasons.

Additionally, as cybersecurity requirements increase, more analysts will be needed. 

Read more: How to Become an Information Security Analyst: Salary, Skills, and More

Information security analyst job titles (with salaries)

When you’re ready to launch a career in information security, you’ll find various job titles and salaries. Some of the more common titles include:

All salary data is sourced from Glassdoor as of September 2023.

IT security engineer

Average annual salary (US): $108,822 [1]

IT security engineers design and build systems to secure information stored in electronic devices. They identify security risks and develop plans to eliminate threats.   

Read more: What Is a Security Engineer? Career Guide

Security systems administrator

Average annual salary (US): $76,353 [2]

As a security administrator, you must ensure secure sensitive information and monitor systems for performance and security.  You’ll troubleshoot any issues that arise and ensure networks are secure.  

Information assurance manager

Average annual salary (US): $107,544 [3]

Information assurance managers are responsible for securing electronic information systems. The position typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.  

Cloud security architect 

Average annual salary (US): $136,687 [4]

A cloud security architect designs security systems and oversees security awareness programs. They perform testing and respond to security breaches.     

Skills required for an information security analyst role

Employers look for communication and analytical skills in prospective candidates wanting to pursue a career as an information security analyst. You should also have the following technical skills and knowledge:

• Security architecture: Experience with computer architecture is critical for securing computer systems and building protection measures. 

• Framework: Another essential component of information security architecture is the framework. Python, Cisco, and Linux are all examples of frameworks you should know.

• Incidence response: Not all information security analysts respond to incidents, but it’s good to know response details should you someday need them.

• Hacking: Information security analysts must understand hacking to prevent attacks and protest computer systems.

Read more: Cybersecurity Terms: A to Z Glossary

Becoming an information security analyst

Education

The typical path to an information security analyst career is obtaining a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed an undergraduate degree. Earning a graduate degree in cybersecurity can boost your resume, and you can gain work experience. 

Some employers may accept a candidate with a high school diploma and certification.

Certifications and experience

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are among the certifications.

To qualify for CISSP certification, you’ll need five years of paid full-time work and sit for a six-hour exam. College graduates can have the work requirement waived. You will need to pay an annual fee to remain certified. 

The certification for Ethical Hacker requires two years of experience and passage of a four-hour proctored exam.

For an entry-level job, your experience can include work in a related field. Certifications can also qualify you for an entry-level position. An acceptable certificate for starting a career in cybersecurity is the CompTIA Security +, which provides basic security knowledge.

Other certifications in information security analysis are available along with the CISSP and CEH. Take a look at some of the options.

• Cyber Security Analyst (CySA+): The exam for CySA+ has no prerequisites. Having four years of experience in information security or a closely related field is recommended. 

• Certified in Risk and Information System Control (CRISC): To sit for this exam, you’ll need three years of experience. To receive certification, you’ll need to pass the exam and submit an application with the appropriate fee. 

• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): To qualify for certification, you’ll need five years of experience and to pass the exam. You'll pay an application fee and an exam fee.

Learn more

If you’re interested in starting a career in cybersecurity, consider the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera. This program is designed ​​to help individuals with no previous experience find their first job in the field of cybersecurity, all at their own pace. The courses cover topics such as security models, tools that are used to access and address threats, networks, and more.