Top Cyber Security jobs in 2024

This time last year, Artificial Intelligence was an exciting newcomer in the wider business world with the rapid advent of ChatGPT. Since then, AI has become an inescapable hot topic, as companies around the world seek to safely integrate it into their workflow.

These rapid changes are driving Cyber Security careers to even greater demand. According to a recent ISC2 report, the UK Cyber Security workforce gap is 29.3% greater than last year, with a record 73,439 positions needing to be filled; similarly, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected a 35% growth rate in Cyber Security jobs by 2031.

If you're interested in Cyber Security, there's no better time to upskill!

Here are the top 5 Cyber Security jobs for 2024.

1. Security Administrator

Depending on the size of the company, a Security Administrator role can encompass everything from entry- to mid-level responsibilities. SA is a crucial role that protects companies against threats and attacks and raises Cyber Security awareness among the wider team, creating a cybersafe culture at work.

Most employers require Security Admins to prove their knowledge by attaining Cyber Security certifications such as the well-known Security+ from CompTIA. These industry-recognised certifications attest that you have the knowledge and skills to competently serve as Security Admin across varied environments. 

2. Penetration Tester

Also called Pen Testers, these professionals examine their employer's website or system for weaknesses that could lead to Cyber Security breaches. 

They plan, design, and carry out Penetration Tests and other simulations; following that, they document their findings in reports and recommendations for key decision-makers. If you have an investigative mindset, this could be the right career for you.

To become a Penetration Tester, consider taking a comprehensive certification such as CompTIA PenTest+ or EC-Council Certified Penetration Testing Professional (CPENT).

*You may have come across another well-known certification, the EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH); it's important to note, ethical hacking is not the same as penetration testing! See number 4 for more info.

3. Cloud Security Engineer

Cloud technology is used across all business sectors today; for this reason, this type of Cyber Security Engineer that specialises in Cloud is especially important. 

Cloud Engineers design, manage, and maintain a company's cloud-based systems and services. Depending on company size, Cloud Security Engineers may work closely with Network Security Engineers and Application Security Engineers.

Their role is crucial in ensuring that businesses can scale efficiently across Cloud and that their cloud infrastructure is safeguarded against cyber threats and data breaches. Depending on the industry, they also need to ensure compliance with Cyber Security regulations and standards.

To specialise into this role, you can pursue certifications directly related to your tech stack — for example, if your employer uses Microsoft Azure, a solid choice would be Microsoft Azure Security Engineer Associate.

4. Computer Forensics Analyst

If you have an interest in Cyber Security and Forensics, you could use your tech skills to help law enforcement. 

Computer Forensics Analysts help law enforcement gather, preserve, and examine digital evidence related to criminal investigations. New technologies are constantly evolving — so are the ways to break the law. As a Computer Forensics Analyst, you need to be on top of these changes.

Computer Forensics Analysts often work for law enforcement agencies and governments; depending on their industry, some corporations have in-house Forensics teams.

To upskill into this rewarding career, consider taking the well-known and respected Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) course developed by EC-Council, which we mentioned at number 2; building on that, the comprehensive EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator Certification (CHFI) will teach you the latest forensics examination techniques.

5. Cyber Security Architect

Also known as a Security Architect, this crucial role is responsible for designing and maintaining the security systems within a company's IT network.

Part specialist, part strategist, a Security Architect needs to ensure the flexibility of this system and its adaptability to changing technology and Cyber Security threats. This is a crucial role across many different industries; in the UK, this role is often performed at the Civil Service job grade of HEO (Higher Executive Officer) or SEO (Senior Executive Officer).

This senior position requires professionals to have between 5 and 10 years of experience, with several dedicated to Cyber Security. Such professionals often pursue the industry-recognised Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification developed by ISC2, which attests their knowledge of 8 comprehensive Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) Domains.

*Bonus: Cyber Security Consultant!

Given the increasing demand for Cyber Security specialists, you may be able to secure a consulting gig if you have certified skills and experience. If you've ever thought of going solo, this may be the time to do it!

Get Cyber Security certified with Firebrand

Cyber Security is a lucrative job with many vacancies worldwide. Do you have the skills to benefit from this trend and position yourself for a successful career? 

At Firebrand, we specialise in getting people certified at twice the speed. Cyber Security certifications are our bread and butter; as of 2023, we became the official provider of Cyber Crime Training for UK Law Enforcement.

Perhaps one of our courses is right for you? See how you could save 20% off training fees.