Cybersecurity and IT Career Change Part 2

Information systems security professionals can handle a number of jobs in IT security. Not only are they tasked with designing and implementing security procedures, they are also in charge of enforcing them. From dealing with lost cell phones and laptops holding confidential corporate information, to managing data backup and protecting software systems from hackers and cyber-terrorists, IS security jobs can offer variety and excitement every day.

Duties and responsibilities may vary according to employer and job title. Mid-level IS Security Engineers and IS Security Managers often develop product specifications, plans and schedules. They may perform black box testing, code audits and security design reviews. IS Security Managers often work with software developers and engineers on improving security in a variety of software systems.

Senior-level executives such as IS Security Directors, Chief Information Officers and Chief Technology Officers often take on risk management, strategic planning and supervisory roles. They are responsible for developing an organization’s information systems security protocols, including policy, contingency planning and disaster recovery plans. A typical day in a senior-level IT career could include vulnerability testing, security code reviews and audits and risk analysis.

IS security managers, consultants and analysts may design processes to incorporate custom security solutions into technical designs. They are typically responsible for developing internal security procedures, defining and implementing best practices guidelines for addressing security concerns, and maintaining knowledge of current encryption and authentication technologies as they apply to security issues.

Complexity

IT jobs available today generally require a different set of skills. Employers hiring for IT jobs in information systems security typically look for expert-level knowledge and the latest tactics to combat the computer crimes and cyber attacks that can threaten organizational stability. Understanding security issues in software designs and discovering subtle security issues that appear under sudden threat scenarios can be accomplished through advanced training. The trend in IT jobs is toward specialization; one way to stand out from the crowd is to become highly knowledgeable regarding security issues and regulations, particularly for a specific industry, such as manufacturing, healthcare or finance.

Interface

IT jobs also generally require interfacing with a variety of personnel levels, from upper management to software developers. Communicating through written correspondence or face-to-face with superiors, peers and external advisors is often necessary in security careers. Mid- and senior-level IT professionals may supervise staff or lead project teams. They often consult with other management personnel to guide the analysis of long-term security issues.

IT and Security Jobs: Education and Training

Breaking into the IT business and landing an information systems security job usually requires a minimum level of education and training. These requirements vary, depending on industry, role and employer. Commonly, individuals may enter into IT field with a degree in computer science, engineering, information systems, business, finance or other area of study. Most organizations prefer to hire candidates with at minimum a bachelor’s degree plus additional information systems security training and credentials. Those in executive-level IT positions often hold a master’s degree in computer science or a related discipline.

When launching a security career, it is helpful to know employers often favor candidates with CompTIA Security+™, CISSP^® or SSCP^®certification through ISC^2®. To prepare for these exams and develop the critical skills required in an IS security career, many professionals enroll in continuing professional education – such as the Cybersecurity certificate program offered 100% online by Villanova University.

Professionals who complete Villanova’s Certificate in Cybersecurity have the knowledge and skills to:

• Lead an IT security team against the latest threats and complex cryptographic attacks
• Master critical security concepts impacting today’s businesses
• Create continuity plans for disaster recovery
• Test to earn Security+™, CISSP^® or SSCP^® certification
• Successfully compete for the best IT jobs in information systems security

Villanova’s certificate program consists of three online courses. Students receive a certificate when successfully completing the entire certificate program.

Breaking Into and Successfully Competing For IT Jobs

Professionals who manage information-related tasks and security processes or who are interested in developing security management skills can be well-positioned to break into the IT world with specialty training and certification. If you are an analytical thinker, who is self-directed, flexible, and team-oriented, you can take your career to the next level with Villanova’s Cybersecurity certificate program. Choosing IS security is a smart approach to breaking into the IT field.