Learn more about an information security analyst career, what you can expect to earn, and the career outlook.
IT security analysts protect a company’s electronic data and ensure computer systems aren’t vulnerable to attacks. As data breaches and cyberattacks become more common, information technology (IT) security analysts jobs are in high demand, offering opportunities for those with the skills and interest to enter the profession.
Information security analysts, sometimes called information technology security managers, protect sensitive information from hackers and data breaches. Organizations of all sizes depend on them to defend their data from high-tech invasions.
An information security analyst keeps a computer system secure and free of vulnerabilities. If you’re interested in technology and how to protect systems from cyberattacks, a career as an information security analyst may align well with your goals. As high-tech criminals become more advanced, you, as an information security professional, will work to combat their efforts.
Information security analysts analyze risks and take preventive actions, such as installing firewalls and data encryption software. In this position, you may also lead the company’s incident response strategy if and when a security breach occurs.
As technology changes rapidly, organizations need to keep current with security measures. You must remain abreast of changes or threat alerts and take the necessary steps to reduce system vulnerability.
As an information security analyst, you should develop and maintain a disaster recovery plan in case of a breach. You should also stay current with operating systems and their vulnerabilities.
The Government of Canada Job Bank predicts a shortage of jobs for information security analysts between 2022 and 2031 Roughly 143,700 job openings will become available during that time, with nearly 160,000 new job seekers available to fill them [1]. As a result, information security analysts will need to stand out in their job searches.
Job Bank Canada reports a median hourly wage of $43.59 CAD for information security analysts in Canada [1]. That comes out to roughly $90,667 CAD annually. However, salary wages may range from $59,904 CAD to $143,998 CAD, depending on where you live, your education, skills, and experience.
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 the following.
Average annual CA salary: $104,855 CAD [2]
IT security engineers design and build systems to secure information stored in electronic devices. You will also identify security risks and develop plans to eliminate threats.
Average annual CA salary: $89,841 CAD [3]
IT security specialists secure computer information systems. You will also likely carry out occasional risk assessments and develop security response plans or revise those already in place to contain any damage from a breach and reduce future threats. You will likely need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
Average annual CA salary: $84,585 CAD [4]
A cybersecurity consultant assesses security systems and oversees security awareness programs. You will also perform testing and respond to security breaches.
Employers look for communication and analytical skills in prospective candidates wanting to pursue an information security analyst career. 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. You should know the specific frameworks of Python, Cisco, and Linux.
Incidence response: Not all information security analysts respond to incidents, but it’s good to know response details should you need them someday.
Hacking: Information security analysts must understand hacking to prevent attacks and protest computer systems.
According to Job Bank Canada, the typical path to an information security analyst career begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed an undergraduate degree; however, 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.
You can also earn a certification in the field to broaden your knowledge and make you more attractive to employers. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) from ISC2 and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) from the EC-Council are among possible certifications.
To qualify for CISSP certification, you’ll need five years of work experience and sit for a three-hour exam. College graduates may have one year of work requirement waived. You will need to pay an annual fee to remain certified. According to Payscale, the average CISSP holder earns a base salary of $110,000 CAD in Canada [5].
The certification for Ethical Hacker requires two years of experience or completion of an EC-Council training course. You must also pass a four-hour exam that consists of 125 multiple-choice questions. Payscale reports an average base salary of $93,000 CAD for CEH holders [6].
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, similar to the CISSP and CEH, are available. Take a look at some of the options.
Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+): The CySA+ exam has no prerequisites. However, having four years of experience in information security is recommended.
Certified in Risk and Information System Control (CRISC): You’ll need at least three years of experience before qualifying to sit for this exam. You must pass the exam and apply with the appropriate fee to receive certification.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): To qualify for certification, you’ll need five years of experience and pass the exam. You'll pay an application fee and an exam fee.
Careers in cybersecurity are in high demand, so consider securing an information security analyst role. If you’re interested in starting a career in cybersecurity, consider the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera. This program helps individuals with no previous experience find their first job in the field of cybersecurity at their own pace. The courses cover topics such as security models, tools that help you access and address threats, networks, and more.
Government of Canada Job Bank. “Information Technology (IT) Security Analyst in Canada, https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/wages-occupation/296429/ca.” Accessed January 29, 2025.
Glassdoor. “Cybersecurity Engineer salaries in Canada, https://www.glassdoor.ca/Salaries/cyber-security-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,23.htm.” Accessed January 29, 2025.
Glassdoor. “How much does a Computer Security Specialist make in Canada?, https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/canada-computer-security-specialist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,6_IN3_KO7,35.htm” Accessed January 29, 2025.
Glassdoor. “Cybersecurity Consultant salaries in Canada, https://www.glassdoor.ca/Salaries/cybersecurity-consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,24.htm.” Accessed January 29, 2025.
Payscale. “Salary for Certification: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Certification=Certified_Information_Systems_Security_Professional_(CISSP)/Salary.” Accessed January 29, 2025.
Payscale. “Salary for Certification: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Certification=Certified_Ethical_Hacker_(CEH)/Salary.” Accessed January 29, 2025.
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