A cybersecurity specialist, also known as IT security professional, works hard to protect computers and networks within an organisation from criminal intrusion. Positions in cybersecurity are some of the most sought-after in the tech sector as more and more businesses seek to fight off attacks from cybercriminals and hackers.
What does a cybersecurity specialist do?
If you’re employed as a cybersecurity specialist, you’ll be responsible for building the security aspects during the development stages of software systems, networks and data centres. You’ll also test the systems for vulnerabilities and risks in hardware and software. It’s the job of an IT security employee to set up firewalls into network infrastructures and also monitor the system for intrusions and attacks on a constant basis.
What jobs are related to cybersecurity?
If you’re interested in the field of cybersecurity but not necessarily in the specific role of cybersecurity specialist, you can explore any of the following related occupations:
- Data analyst
Average pay: R442,630 per year
Jobs on offer: 264
- Information systems manager
Average pay: R538,829 per year
Jobs on offer: 270
- Web designer
Average pay: R458,157 per year
Jobs on offer: 606
- Systems developer
Average pay: R556,598 per year
Jobs on offer: 1,849
- Computer scientist
Average pay: R565,356 per year
Jobs on offer: 3,754
- Software developer
Average pay: R561,623 per year
Jobs on offer: 4,352
- Data scientist
Average pay: R592,102 per year
Jobs on offer: 362
- Systems analyst
Average pay: R574,682 per year
Jobs on offer: 266
What are the educational requirements for becoming a cybersecurity specialist?
In order to apply for the role of a cybersecurity specialist, you’ll need to pass matric and have proof of a degree or course in Computer Science or programming related fields at a University. The required subjects that you need to have included in your years of study are mathematics and computer sciences.
What do employment opportunities look like in this sector of the job market?
At the start of February 2020, Adzuna had more than 150 positions on offer for cybersecurity jobs across South Africa. There’s a lot of competition in the market but if you land the right job at the right company, you could be earning up to R590,000 per year.
Where are all the jobs?
The majority of cyber and IT security positions are offered across the Gauteng province with Johannesburg boasting the most positions on offer. Coming in second place is the Western Cape with Cape Town hiring a third of the country’s cybersecurity staff.