"Underrated" Job Pays $100K and Has Huge Job Market Demand
When you're choosing a career path, it pays to ask yourself a few key questions: What are you good at? What do you enjoy? What will give you the lifestyle you envision? What does the world need more of? In response to the final question, experts say there's one emerging field—cybersecurity—in which demand is drastically outpacing supply. And, paying an annual salary of over $100,000 in many instances, it can present a lucrative career path with minimal training.
Wondering whether it might be right for you and how to get started? Here's everything you need to know about this "underrated" job field, which experts say won't be slowing down any time soon.
RELATED: Side Hustle Pro Shares "Super Simple" Way to Make $750 a Week.
Cybersecurity jobs are in serious demand.
Tech is booming—and with it, so is the shadow side of the industry. In fact, according to Security Magazine, during the pandemic in 2022, global cyberattacks increased by 38 percent compared with the previous year.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the number of cybersecurity jobs will increase by 32 percent over the coming decade in response to these growing threats. However, even if you're submitting your application today, there are more than enough positions to go around. According to Statista, there are over 755,000 open cybersecurity jobs in the U.S. right now.
The field pays uniquely well.
Cybersecurity is an important job—and its compensation tends to reflect its value. In exchange for protecting computers and data from unauthorized access or digital damage, many businesses, organizations, or cybersecurity firms are willing to pay upwards of $100,000 per year.
According to the job site Indeed, certain specialties within the cybersecurity field could fetch you even more than that. For example, the average application security engineer makes over $128,000 annually, while a software architect can earn over $135,000.
RELATED: The 13 Best Ways to Make Money Online, Experts Say.
Many cybersecurity jobs don't require higher education.
Usually, making a six-figure salary hinges on having acquired higher education—a bachelor's or even a master's degree. However, this isn't necessary in the world of cybersecurity. Instead, you'll need a high school diploma or GED and to have completed an online "boot camp" program or training in the field of cybersecurity.
"Employers are really struggling to find people who are comfortable working in cybersecurity, but there's this incredible need and demand for people with these skills," Lisa Gevelber, Google's chief marketing officer for the Americas, recently told CNBC. "Companies just can't fill these jobs fast enough."
Here's how to start your career in cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity isn't one single job—there are many possible avenues to take within several different sectors. However, you don't need to choose your path upfront; you just need to acquire the core skills of the trade.
In particular, you'll need to master systems administration, network security, defensive security and monitoring, and offensive security, the curriculum for Columbia University's 24-week boot camp program suggests. Additionally, cybersecurity experts are typically well-versed in programming, risk management, data management and analysis, tech troubleshooting, and more.
To become certified, most people aim to pass the Security+ exam for entry-level positions, or the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam for more advanced positions. A good boot camp program will help you prepare for both the exam itself and your future career in the field.
For more career tips sent directly to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
Lauren Gray Lauren Gray is a New York-based writer, editor, and consultant.Read moreFiled UnderCareer • NewsRead This Next3 Jobs That Can Make You Rich
No one's learning to do them anymore—which is where you come in.November 26, 2023Never Accept a Job Without Doing This First
Here's how to avoid a dangerous job scam, says the FTC.January 17, 2022"Lazy" Side Hustle Can Make You $1,000 a Month
A recommended tactic uses AI tools to generate passive income—but does it work?September 26, 2023Side Hustle Pro Shares Way to Make $750 a Week
Experts weigh in on whether or not the seemingly easy way to make cash online will actually pay off.September 14, 2023How a Finance Expert Is Making Her Kids Rich
A Wall Street insider shares her top tips for growing generational wealth.November 23, 2023The Smart Man's Guide to Spotting Counterfeit Wine
That $2,000 bottle of Bourdeaux might be worth $20. Here’s how to be sure it’s the real thing.April 13, 2017The 5 Best Light-Bodied Red Wines for Extending Your Summer
Don't let September ruin a killer party. August 25, 201717 Insanely Cool New Luxury Bicycles for Spring
Meet the bikes that cost more than a car.March 31, 2017Best Life Essentials
You deserve the best. Live life to the fullest with these ultimate essentials.October 21, 2016This Is the Safest Way to Store Meat
Don't let that filet set you up for food poisoning. February 7, 2018
