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Leveraging professional networks can be particularly useful in finding job opportunities in AI security. Many positions are typically filled via referrals or internal recruitment before public advertisement. Additionally, job seekers should utilize specialized job boards and recruitment agencies focusing on cybersecurity and AI roles.

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Learn what it takes to get into the in-demand field of cybersecurity, featuring career paths, skills, certifications, and a step-by-step guide. No matter the size of the business, cloud security specialists will play a part in planning secure cloud system requirements and constructing, validating, and deploying the system. Cloud security specialists are also tasked with monitoring and detecting malicious activity once the system is deployed. The safeguards that cloud security offers can help in preventing data thefts, unwanted deletion of data or data breach incidents.

The demand for AI Security Specialists is rising, particularly in tech hubs across the U.S., such as Silicon Valley, New York City, and Boston. However, opportunities are also expanding globally in Europe and Asia due to the increasing reliance on AI technologies in various sectors. Specialists should identify the industries that most align with their skills and interests, such as finance, healthcare, or government, where AI security is crucial.

Is it hard to become a cloud security engineer?

Most companies hiring a network security specialist are seeking someone with a bachelor’s degree in computer-related fields like computer science, information technology, or management information systems. A network security specialist is a mid-level role that typically requires 2 to 3 years of experience working in networking systems. Cybersecurity professionals tend to get paid well for their skills, even at the entry level. As you gain experience and move into more advanced roles, salaries also often increase. To give you an idea of what’s possible, here’s a look at the average total pay of several cybersecurity jobs in the US in May 2025, according to Glassdoor. Starting with internships or entry-level positions in cybersecurity or AI-focused companies can provide practical insights and a foundational understanding of the security landscape.

Since cybersecurity professionals frequently work with teams to resolve and prevent issues, you’ll also want to develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, and adaptability. Any combination of CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Cloud+, and CompTIA PenTest+ could be exactly what you need to land a job as a cloud security specialist. Cloud security is a rising industry, growing in response to companies embracing cloud computing, networking, and infrastructure. The global cloud security market was worth an estimated $30.0 billion in 2024 and is slated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 22.5 percent to reach $148.3 billion by 2032, according to Market.US .

Additionally, given the interdisciplinary nature of AI Security, degrees in mathematics or engineering can also be beneficial, particularly when paired with specialized courses in AI and security. For those aiming to excel in AI Security, pursuing further education, such as a master’s degree in cybersecurity focusing on artificial intelligence, can be advantageous. These advanced programs often cover specific topics like machine learning, data protection, ethical hacking, and cryptology, which directly apply to an AI Security Specialist role. Educational institutions in the United States, such as MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon, offer cutting-edge programs that are highly regarded globally. These programs deliver in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical experience via labs, projects, and internships.

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Network security specialists have an in-depth knowledge of the effect of malicious threats to systems, can access the risk level, and develop suitable ways to counter them. Your responsibility also includes ensuring that both the hardware and software systems can handle security requirements. Expert knowledge of the tactics and methods used for attempted unauthorized system access is necessary to carry out security upgrades accordingly.

How to become a cloud security specialist

This involves conducting background checks, evaluating risks, and implementing security measures. Personnel security specialists work with management to develop policies that minimize risk and protect sensitive information. They also investigate security breaches and work with law enforcement agencies to prosecute perpetrators.

• Since cybersecurity professionals frequently work with teams to resolve and prevent issues, you’ll also want to develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, and adaptability.
• Working in security at the executive level often means managing operations, policies, and budgets across the company’s security infrastructure.
• In these roles, you’ll gain similar experience and skills to help you decide if cloud security is the right specialization for you.
• A Cloud Security Specialist is an expert focused on securing cloud environments such as public, private, and hybrid clouds.

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In this role, you’ll help design, test, and plan the processes and procedures that keep business information, network, and other assets safe and secure. Cloud security engineers work to prevent cybercrime on company assets in the cloud. Discover the education, skills, and experience you’ll need to start a career in this growing field.

It’s wise to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job that you apply for to demonstrate that you have the specific qualifications they’re looking for in the job description. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of cybersecurity jobs is expected to increase by 33 percent from 2023 through 2033. Cybersecurity is the process of protecting an organization’s computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access or damage. Cyberattacks and threats can access, change, or destroy sensitive information such as passwords, financial information, medical records, and other confidential data. A cloud security specialist will likely partner with cloud engineers and cloud architects to deliver complete cloud security solutions.

• If you enjoy the challenge of keeping bad actors at bay, a network security specialist may be a good next step for you.
• A personnel security specialist ensures the safety and security of an organization’s employees, assets, and information.
• After the 9/11 terrorist attacks, it took upon itself the task of training and certifying information security professionals.
• A cybersecurity analyst plans, implements, upgrades, and monitors security measures to protect computer networks and information.

If you’re interested in starting a career in cybersecurity, consider the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. You’ll learn the importance of protecting networks, devices, people, and data from unauthorized access and cyberattacks using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. In an analyst role, you can take your career in a few different directions, depending on your interests and goals. You may pursue security engineering and architecture if you enjoy planning and building. Maybe you enjoy the thrill of incident response, or perhaps you’d prefer to hone your hacking skills to stay one step ahead of bad actors. While you don’t necessarily need a degree to get a job in cybersecurity, having one or some form of structured training, such as certificate programs or online classes, might accelerate your path toward a job.

This hands-on knowledge is crucial for those aiming to progress in their careers and significantly contribute toAI security. Additionally, various certifications can further bolster a candidate’s credentials in this specialized field. Moreover, specialized courses and certifications tailored to AI Security are becoming more prevalent. For example, courses on AI risk management, secure machine learning implementation, and ethical AI use are essential for those seeking to specialize. Finally, staying current in this rapidly evolving field requires ongoing education. AI Security Specialists must continually update their knowledge through workshops, seminars, and courses on current AI developments, security threats, and mitigation strategies.

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You’ll play the how to become a security specialist part of the intruder, trying to find vulnerabilities before the bad guys do. The field of incident response involves the next steps after a security incident. As an incident responder, you’ll monitor your company’s network and work to fix vulnerabilities and minimize loss when breaches occur. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take the next step, there are multiple directions for your career, each with its own focus, challenges, and opportunities. In the sections below, we’ll break down five key career paths in cybersecurity.

The average senior security specialist salary in the United States is $106,764 per year or $51 per hour. Senior security specialist salaries range between $72,000 and $156,000 per year. A senior security specialist is responsible for controlling the security arm of any establishment or firm. The specialist’s duty is to prevent criminal activity by setting the security objectives of the organization.

Job duties might include reviewing security clearance information and personnel reports, assisting experienced specialists with inspections, evaluating findings and recommending changes. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or security-related field can help aspiring physical security specialists prepare for their careers. A criminal justice bachelor’s degree program may provide coursework in law and ethics, corrections and criminology.

If you’re already in IT or a junior cybersecurity role but can’t land your dream role right now, be patient. You could take on freelance or volunteer roles in the meantime to build the right experience. Certifications in cybersecurity prove to hiring managers that you have a tangible credential and a certain level of expertise. For example, the CompTIA Security+ is a popular entry-level certification that validates you have the core skills needed for a cybersecurity job. Another certification is the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) credential which demonstrates your ability to assess security vulnerabilities and report on compliance.