WHAT IS CYBER SECURITY?

To put it simply, it’s the security and protection of networks and computer systems such as computers, mobile phones etc from information disclosure, theft or damage to hardware, software, or electronic data.

It’s one of the fastest growing areas of the tech world. But you should know that you don’t have to be interested in technology to work in this field.

What’s exciting about this industry is that it’s constantly shifting and evolving, so new roles appear almost all of the time!

With a wider range than you might’ve realised, check out some of the typical roles you might find in Cyber Security, below.

Engineering, Architecture and Design - This department is vital in securing codes and applications. Whether that’s architecting a secure system or making new security tools.

This field is forever evolving so you must be adaptable to change with the times and new technologies. Role examples include; software engineer, technical solutions architect, ux designer.

Threat Management & Forensics - Managing and defending networks and devices to keep attackers away, testing and assessing the security of other networks, advising how to improve measures and more. This role involves constantly learning and being on the ball. Roles may include; ethical hacker / penetration tester, digital forensic analyst, digital forensic investigator.

Risk Analytics & Management - Understanding which threats will have the worst impact on business, therefore advising companies on why and how they can reduce these risks. Potential roles are; financial risk analyst, information assurance, performance and risk analyst.

Operations and Support - Consisting of business strategy and operations, IT, supply chain, project and program management. Roles in this sector may involve; technology compliance, systems administrator, tech strategy & solutions lead, integrated business planning, materials program manager.

Education, Training & Awareness - This area involves educating and training newcomers, updating professionals, as well as staff and customers to ensure they fully benefit from their technology. Role examples; IT instructor, IT support, infrastructure and telephone support.

Sales and Marketing - For those who aren’t so much into the tech-side, but passionate about getting the message of security out there. How about these positions? E-commerce marketing specialist, marketing messaging specialist, cyber security consultant, sales account representative, insights lead, testing and personalization program manager.

Human Resources - Consider yourself to be a people person? Be a part of the people’s team and work as a; compensation partner, people services specialist, technical recruiter, sales recruiter, sales enablement manager.

Legal - Lawyers who specialise in the advice and prosecution of data security and internet crime are essential as the need for legal advice is rapidly growing, while crime and penalties happen to organisations that don’t effectively secure and protect their data.

Apprenticeships

If you’re just finishing year 11, it can be a good idea to start out in a level 2 IT apprenticeship so that you can then move onto a level 3 in a cyber security role.

Let’s have a look at some other apprenticeships! (All links will be listed below)

IT Application Specialist

The course includes functional skills in maths and english Level 1 if not previously achieved.

Security Systems Engineer

Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, Science and a technical subject graded 9-4 (A-C) or level 2 equivalent.

Cyber Security Analyst

An A Level in ICT or Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subject, or BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits).

Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship

University teaching classroom alongside lab education with technical training, mentoring, shadowing experts, work-based placements and projects.

Must have exam predictions of BBC A levels or equivalent to 112 UCAS points.
GCSE or equivalent of Maths grade 5 or above.

Software engineering degree apprenticeship

Must have (or expecting) 3 A levels grades BBC or above or equivalent, including 2 A levels in STEM subjects.

If you don’t see a current vacancy that matches your interests you can send an interest form to Escalla who’ll let you know when an opportunity for you comes up!

If you think you’ve got what it takes to defeat the bad guys, you’ve gotta learn to think like one. Understanding how they think and predicting their next move is a key skill for any role in cyber security. Other main qualities include being a proactive learner, remaining cool under pressure, being analytical and versatile.

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