Learn about cybersecurity career paths—from SOC analyst and SOC manager roles to becoming a CISO—and discover how to advance in this high-demand field.
With the rapid advancement of technology, cyber risks have become a prominent concern, making cybersecurity one of the fastest-growing and most crucial industries today. Cybersecurity professionals play a vital role in safeguarding organizations from data breaches and cyberattacks. There are various roles within the cybersecurity field, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Consider the following factors when evaluating a career in cybersecurity:
The cybersecurity industry is growing rapidly due to the rise in cyber threats and digital transformation across all sectors.
Mission-driven and passionate individuals with a love for continuous learning will thrive in this ever-evolving field.
Cybersecurity offers competitive salaries across all levels:
Entry-Level (e.g., SOC Analyst): $111,000 – $145,000 annually
Mid-Level (e.g., SOC Manager): $165,000 – $215,000 annually
Executive-Level (e.g., CISO): $203,000 – $300,000+ annually
(Data from CyberSN Salary Report)
The demand for cybersecurity professionals is outpacing supply. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 33% growth in information security analyst jobs by 2033, much faster than the average for other occupations. This growth reflects the increasing reliance on cybersecurity across industries.
Cybersecurity offers diverse roles that cater to various skills and career stages. Here, we highlight three pivotal roles: SOC analyst, SOC manager, and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Each role supports different aspects of an organization’s security posture, from operational to strategic levels.
SOC analysts are entry-level professionals responsible for monitoring network security, identifying and analyzing threats, and escalating incidents as needed. They work directly with security information and event management (SIEM) tools and need a solid understanding of malware, intrusion detection, and threat analysis. A SOC analyst often progresses to more specialized roles or managerial positions.
SOC Managers oversee a team of analysts, coordinate incident response efforts, and ensure the SOC’s operations align with the organization’s security strategy. They need experience in technical security measures and management to guide the team in developing effective defense tactics. Leadership skills and the ability to communicate technical issues to stakeholders are critical.
CISOs (Chief Information Security Officer) are executives responsible for setting and managing the organization’s security strategy. They work closely with other executives to align security initiatives with business goals, manage security budgets, and oversee risk assessment processes. CISOs must be skilled in risk management, regulatory compliance, and communication at the board level.
The following skills are not specific to any particular role but great to have in the cybersecurity field. We cover role-specific skills in each of our guides.
Success in cybersecurity requires knowledge of threat detection, incident response, SIEM tools, and familiarity with security frameworks such as NIST and ISO 27001.
In addition to technical expertise, cybersecurity professionals need problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. Leadership is essential for managerial and executive roles, as these individuals must inspire and guide their teams.
Certifications demonstrate expertise and can increase job prospects and earning potential. Key certifications include:
• CompTIA Security+
• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
• CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)
Cybersecurity is constantly evolving, with new threats and technologies emerging regularly. Staying current through online courses, webinars, and industry events is crucial for long-term success in this field. Popular learning platforms include Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning.
Check out our playlist of videos from SOC Analyst Appreciation Day to find insightful content for all roles.
Cybersecurity career paths typically start with entry-level roles such as SOC Analyst, progressing to management roles like SOC Manager, and eventually executive roles like CISO. Check out the SOC Career Guide to see examples.
Beginners can take foundational courses, earn entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+, and gain experience through internships or volunteer work in IT or security.
Start with CompTIA Security+ for foundational knowledge. For mid-level roles, consider CISSP or CISM for advanced skills.
