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Running head: The Career of Cybersecurity Specialist Explored
The Career of Cybersecurity Specialist Explored
Name
School of Business, Liberty University
CSIS110: Introduction to Computer Science
Professor
Date
2
Abstract
Modern society cannot function without cybersecurity, and cybersecurity experts and careers are
crucial to safeguarding networks and information systems within enterprises (Forbes Advisor,
n.d.). This review gives a general summary of the career of a cybersecurity specialist, outlining
the duties, salaries, and prospective career path. The job of cybersecurity specialist is defined and
their task and the industries found in a cybersecurity specialist career are discussed. Locations
and options open to cybersecurity experts are also explored (Cybersecurity Specialist Salary and
Job Description 2023, 2023). The education and training needed for a job in cybersecurity are
also covered, including undergraduate and graduate degree programs available for pursuit in
addition to the professional certifications required in this career. The abilities and traits required
for success in cybersecurity are also discussed, like technical proficiency, problem-solving
ability, and attention to detail. Additionally, the wage potential and employment development for
cybersecurity specialists is explored. This paper emphasizes the significance of the career of a
cybersecurity specialist in the current digital age offering a thorough analysis of the knowledge,
credentials, and career options open to individuals with an interest in this area with valuable
resources.
Keywords: Cybersecurity, Technical, Cyber, Information Technology, Information
Security, IT security, Software, Hardware
Running head: The Career of Cybersecurity Specialist Explored
The Career of Cybersecurity Specialist Explored
Cybersecurity is a critical component of society today. As our lives become increasingly
intertwined with digital mediums, the demand for cybersecurity specialists grows. Whether large
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or small, organizations require the expertise of a cybersecurity specialist to oversee and guard
data as cyber threats increase at an alarming rate. The profession of a cybersecurity specialist
should not be confused with an information security specialist as the professionals in question
assist in developing, evaluating, and implementing organizational security systems. They also
test connected computer networks for potential exposure points, record their findings, and
address vulnerabilities (Learn How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist – Forbes Advisor,
n.d.). First, a general review of cybersecurity specialist descriptor and role is explored. Next, we
look at the many tasks performed by cybersecurity experts, salaries and the industries
cybersecurity specialists can find themselves in. Finally, locations, knowledge, credentials and
experience needed to enter and progress in the cybersecurity field is discussed.
Job Description
Description
In general, a cybersecurity specialist oversees and guards against unauthorized access of
an organization’s systems and the unavoidable cyberattacks every firm will experience on its
computer networks and systems. To stop security breaches, they strive to find weaknesses in
systems, evaluate risks, and put security solutions in place. In addition to this, they build and
maintain firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security software. Their job also entails
creating and implementing security policies and procedures and educating the user on these
policies as well. Additionally, they keep an eye out for suspicious activity on networks,
investigate security-related incidents, and work with other information technology experts to
make sure security measures put in place are current and effective (A Day in the Life of a
Security Specialist I CyberDegrees.org, 2022). To keep businesses safe from increasing cyber
threats, cybersecurity experts must keep up with the most recent security risks and technologies.
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They may specialize in areas such as network security, information security, or cybercrime
investigation, and work in a variety of industries, including government, finance, healthcare, and
technology.
Typical Job Tasks of a Cybersecurity Specialist
Implement Security Measures
The implementation of security measures to defend computer networks and systems from
threats is a responsibility of a cybersecurity specialist. By doing this they prevent unwanted
access, detect and respond to assaults, and guarantee the confidentiality, integrity, and availability
of data. To successfully accomplish this, they must employ a variety of security solutions
including firewalls, antivirus software, intrusion detection and prevention systems, access control
mechanisms, encryption technologies, and security protocols.
Conduct Security Audits
To find vulnerabilities and potential flaws that cyber attackers might exploit,
cybersecurity specialists are required to routinely conduct security audits to assess the efficacy of
current security measures and pinpoint areas that require improvement. This entails assessing and
analyzing security policies, procedures, and systems. They also oversee enforcing legal,
regulatory, and industry-specific security requirements for their organization. Additionally, they
make suggestions and create plans to close any security gaps found during the audit. They also
must have the capability as the subject matter expert to inform their leadership and other
stakeholders of audit findings so that they are aware of potential security concerns.
Keeping up with current Cybersecurity News
Keeping abreast of the most current cybersecurity news allows the specialist to stay
updated about the newest cyberthreats, attack methods, and security trends. This is important as
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techniques on both sides of the aisle are ever changing. This would call for the specialist to
routinely check industry news sources, participate in cybersecurity networking groups, and even
attend conferences and webinars. They would need to stay up to date on things like ransomware
attacks, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and cyberattacks.
Educating Users in Organization
Teaching organization users about cybersecurity best practices and potential dangers
linked with their behavior creates an additional layer for the specialist to use in securing their
organization. Delivering training courses instructing staff on spotting things like phishing emails,
using secure passwords, identifying cyber risks, and other critical security-related subjects. Not
only arms the user with the information to protect themselves at their level, but also the
organization as a whole.
Typical Job Advertisements
Cyber Security SME, TRADOC G-2
Yorktown Systems Group, Inc.
Hoopes Landing, VA
Summary: Yorktown systems Group is seeking highly qualified Cyber Security SME to
provide professional services, with an emphasis in Risk Management, and support to the
TRADOC G-2. The TRADOC G-2 facilitates and acts as the principal enabler for continuous
learning across all TRADOC lines of effort through acquiring, analyzing, creating, organizing,
applying and transferring data, information, and knowledge in the context of current and future
operations. The G-2 is responsible for delivering the Operating Environment to facilitate the
training of deploying units on joint, national and interagency information, emerging asymmetric
capabilities gleaned from world-wide operations; integrating processes, practices, concepts and
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materiel capabilities into Joint and Service DOTMLPF solutions; and coordinating with the
training centers to provide realistic enemy and environmental signatures into models and
simulations in support of realistic training.
This role supports the IT Infrastructure team which builds, maintains, and supports the IT
infrastructure. The team ensures all workstations, servers, networks, peripherals, and applications
are functional and remain operational to keep data and information flowing between the G-2 and
their customers. As a cybersecurity specialist, your role will be in analyzing, tracking, and
reporting on cyber risks within the various IT systems.
You will also assist in package preparation for application and software accreditation. The
environment is varied with a multitude of system types and operating systems, primed for a
continual development of skills. The ideal candidate will be one who likes to learn and grow
through supporting the full IT spectrum.
Specific duties may include, but are not limited to: Be a member of a cybersecurity team
responsible for assessing information systems for compliance with the DoD Risk Management
Framework (RMF). Assist with security assessments and tasks related to the RMF authorization
process. Prepare artifacts needed for Security Authorization packages, to include System
Security Plans (SSPs), architectural overviews, system categorizations, Security Assessment
Plans (SAPs), Security Assessment Reports (SARs), Risk Assessment Reports (RARs), Plans of
Actions & Milestones (POA&M) summaries and continuous monitoring plans.
Use Defense Information Systems Administration (DISA) Security Requirement Guides
(SRGs), Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and Security Content Automation
Protocol (SCAP) tools to perform system validations, assess security controls, and conduct
security scans. Required Qualifications: Must be a U.S. citizen Must possess COMPTIA Security
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+ upon hire and earn Operating System and/or 2nd technical certificate within six months of start
date (IAT II level compliance with DoD 8570.01) Bachelor's degree in Computer Science,
Information Technology, IT Security, or a related technical area.
Extensive industry certification history will be considered in lieu of degree A team player
who works well with others Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively both orally and in
writing Ability to prioritize several tasks at once, able to solve problems individually and as a
team Desired Qualifications: Working knowledge of cloud-based computing platforms,
specifically the Microsoft Azure environment. Knowledge of web server software to include
Apache HTTP, Microsoft IIS, nginx, etc. Knowledge of SQL Databases and administration; to
include MySQL or PostgreSQL Experience with virtual environments such as VMware vSphere
Knowledge of Application server software such as Apache, Wildfly, or GlassFish.
Clearance: Must possess a SECRET security clearance Location: FT Eustis, VA Travel:
Some travel may be required
Yorktown Systems Group, Inc.
Address
Hoopes Landing, VA
23604 USA
Industry
Technology
Cyber Security Engineer
Agile Defense, Inc.
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Hampton, VA
Requisition #:CYBER003795
Job Title:Cyber Security Engineer
Location:22 Rickenbacher Rd, Langley AFB, Virginia 23665
Clearance Level:Active DoD -Top Secret SCI
Required Certification(s): DoD 8570 compliance at the IAT Level III, IAM Level II, and
CSSP Infrastructure Support levels within 6 months of hire, IAT level II at time of hire.
SUMMARY: Maintain and operate legacy IaaS hardware footprint located at AOC's
Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS) as well as within the Continental United
States (CONUS).
Maintain and operate legacy IaaS hardware footprint located at AOC's Outside the
Continental United States (OCONUS) as well as within the Continental United States (CONUS).
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Ensure Compliance with KesselRun and DoD cyber security policies and procedures.
Review IaaS related software release notes and provide feedback for approval to load
from a security related perspective.
Draft and brief reports on cyber security status, findings, and remediation results.
Review SIEM, Syslog, and other monitoring tools for security alerts, misconfigurations,
or possible security related events.
Support Infrastructure team members on security related questions, product reviews, and
security related implementations to ensure an ever-increasing security posture.
Configuration and use of security related tools in Cloud and OnPremise environments.
Examples are ACAS, HBSS, CloudWatch, LogRhythm, MS System Center, etc.
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Support Cloud and OnPremise Hybrid Cloud Infrastructure security using a mixture of
Industry Best Practices, Vendor specific security documentation, DISA STIG guidance, and KR
policies and procedures to ensure the most secure computing environments to ADCP customers
and team members.
Work with KR security personnel to ensure compliance with ATO conditions and DoD.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Certifications
DoD 8570 compliance at the IAT Level III, IAM Level II, and CSSP Infrastructure
Support levels within 6 months of hire, IAT level II at time of hire.
Education, Background, and Years of Experience
Three-plus (3+) years of demonstrated experience working as a cyber security
professional.
Resume demonstrates deep understanding of modern security best practices for hybrid
cloud-based infrastructure and networks.
Resume demonstrates familiarity with RMF, Industry Best Practice Security,
securitybased policy and procedure creation, or DoD Security practices.
Three-plus (3+) years of demonstrated experience enabling security in a Hybrid Cloud
Infrastructure based environment.
Resume has at least two (2+) or more examples of daily use of security tools such as
HBSS, ACAS, Antivirus, SIEM tools, Firewalls, or other types of security related monitoring
tools.
ADDITIONAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Required Skills
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Resume demonstrates a deep understanding of modern security best practices for hybrid
cloud-based infrastructure and networks.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions
Contractor site with 0%-10% travel possible. Possible off-hours work to support releases
and outages. General office environment. Work is generally sedentary in nature, but may require
standing and walking for up to 10% of the time. The working environment is generally favorable.
Lighting and temperature are adequate, and there are not hazardous or unpleasant conditions
caused by noise, dust, etc. Work is generally performed within an office environment, with
standard office equipment available.
Strength Demands
Sedentary - 10 lbs. Maximum lifting, occasional lift/carry of small articles. Some
occasional walking or standing may be required. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are
required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Physical Requirements
Stand or Sit; Walk; Repetitive Motion; Use Hands / Fingers to Handle or Feel; Stoop,
Kneel, Crouch, or Crawl; See; Push or Pull; Climb (stairs, ladders) or Balance (ascend / descend,
work atop, traverse).
About Us!
Agile Defense provides leading-edge Digital Transformation solutions to support and
advance our customers' mission. We deliver innovative and high-quality services to our
customers worldwide through an empowered and engaged workforce.
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Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on
our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its
roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great
things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our
employees and the culture we create together. We believe several attributes are the root of our
very best employees and extraordinary culture. We have named these attributes "The 6 H's" -
Happy, Helpful, Honest, Humble, Hungry, and Hustle.
Happy: We exhibit a positive outlook in order to create a positive environment.
Helpful: We assist each other and pull together as teammates to deliver.
Honest: We conduct our business with integrity.
Humble: We recognize that success is not achieved alone, that there is always more to
learn, and that no task is below us.
Hungry: We desire to consistently improve.
Hustle: We work hard and get after it.
These Core Values are present in all our employees and our organization's aspects. Learn
more about us and our culture by visiting us here.
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements
Agile Defense is subject to federal vaccine mandates or other customer/facility
vaccination requirements as a federal contractor. As such, to protect its employees' health and
safety and comply with customer requirements, Agile Defense may require employees in certain
positions to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination requirements will depend on the
status of the federal contractor mandate and customer site requirements.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees
or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay
of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation
information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot
disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have
access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal
complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action,
including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal
duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Agile Defense, Inc.
Address
61 Tuskegee Airman Blvd
Hampton, VA
23665 USA
Industry
Technology
Information Security Risk Specialist
Booz Allen Hamilton Inc.
Hampton, VA
Information Security Risk Specialist
The Opportunity:
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Cyber threats are everywhere, and the constantly evolving nature of these threats can
make understanding them seem overwhelming to our Government clients and stakeholders. In all
of this "cyber noise," how can these organizations understand their risks and how to mitigate
them? The answer is you. We need your knowledge as an information security risk specialist to
help break down complex threats into manageable plans of action.
As an information security risk specialist on our team, you'll work with our team to
discover their cyber risks, understand applicable policies, and develop a mitigation plan. You'll
get technical, environmental, and personnel details from project-specific subject-matter experts,
decision-makers, and leaders to assist in the development and execution of technical and
nontechnical recommendations to assess the entire threat landscape. Then, you'll help your team
guide your client through a plan of action with presentations, white papers, and milestones.
You'll work on translating security concepts for your client so they can make the best decisions to
secure their mission-critical systems and critical infrastructure. This is your opportunity to take
an active role in information security while growing your skills in cybersecurity and Risk
Management Framework. Join us as we protect our military's communications and our nation's
cyber infrastructure.
Join us. The world can't wait.
You Have:
7+ years of experience working in cybersecurity
Experience with the Risk Management Framework, developing procedures and standard
operating procedures
Knowledge of Microsoft suite
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Ability to identify security requirements for connected and non-connected systems and
unclassified and classified systems
Secret clearance
HS diploma or GED
CYSA+, CASP+, or Security + certification
DoD 8570 IAT or IAM Level II certification
Nice If You Have:
Experience as an operating system administrator, systems engineer, requirements analyst,
ISSO, or ISSE
Ability to create tactics, techniques, white papers, workflows, system data flow, and
architectural diagrams and RMF
Bachelor's degree
CISSP, CISM, or CCSP certification
Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet
eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Secret clearance is required.
Create Your Career:
Grow With Us
Your growth matters to us-that's why we offer a variety of ways for you to develop your
career. With professional and leadership development opportunities like upskilling programs,
tuition reimbursement, mentoring, and firm-sponsored networking, you can chart a unique and
fulfilling career path on your own terms.
A Place Where You Belong
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Diverse perspectives cultivate collective ingenuity. Booz Allen's culture of respect,
equity, and opportunity means that, here, you are free to bring your whole self to work. With an
array of business resource groups and other opportunities for connection, you'll build your
community in no time.
Support Your Well-Being
Our comprehensive benefits package includes wellness programs with HSA
contributions, paid holidays, paid parental leave, a generous 401(k) match, and more. With these
benefits, plus the option for flexible schedules and remote and hybrid locations, we'll support you
as you pursue a balanced, fulfilling life-at work and at home.
Your Candidate Journey
At Booz Allen, we know our people are what propel us forward, and we value
relationships most of all. Here, we've compiled a list of resources so you'll know what to expect
as we forge a connection with you during your journey as a candidate with us.
Compensation
At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and
choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial,
and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance,
worklife programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges
employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and
part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to
participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only
eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more
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about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our
Employee Benefits page.
Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to
location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies,
and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The
projected compensation range for this position is $58,300.00 to $133,000.00 (annualized USD).
The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one
component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees.
Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of flexibility and collaboration, whether
that happens in person or remotely.
If this position is listed as remote or hybrid, you'll periodically work from a Booz Allen
or client site facility.
If this position is listed as onsite, you'll work with colleagues and clients in person, as
needed for the specific role.
EEO Commitment
We're an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that empowers our
people to fearlessly drive change - no matter their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including
pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, or related medical conditions), national origin, ancestry, age,
marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, veteran status,
military or uniformed service member status, genetic information, or any other status protected
by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.
Booz Allen Hamilton Inc.
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Address
Hampton, VA
USA
Industry
Technology
Career Possibilities
Salary Range
The pay scale for a cybersecurity specialist is not only dependent on the role itself but also
experience, education, and location. On average annual wage for a cybersecurity specialist in the
United States is $94,252. Entry-level positions can start at about $55,000, with senior-level
incomes going up to $170,000 (Learn How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist – Forbes
Advisor, n.d.). Certain specialized industries, like finance, healthcare, and government, can allow
a cybersecurity specialist to see an increase in salary due to the nature of the industry (Your next
Move: Cybersecurity Specialist, n.d.). Location also has a considerable impact on this topic with
urban such as California, Virginia, and New York paying more than rural ones (Cybersecurity
Specialist Salary and Job Description 2023, n.d.). Cybersecurity experts are fairly compensated
for their expertise and skills.
Types of Industries
Government
Government cybersecurity requires the specialist to be able to recognize and counter a
variety of potential risks, including insider threats, state-sponsored assaults, and advanced
persistent threats. Government cybersecurity specialists can find themselves collaborating and
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initiating communication with various levels of government and agencies. They also need to be
dedicated to keeping up with new threats and technologies.
Financial
Cybersecurity for finance is a crucial and active field. Financial cybersecurity experts
block and protect from things like insider threats, phishing attacks, and financial fraud. They
have a firm understanding of legal requirements which mandate protection of private financial
information. Not only should they have technical proficiency, but they also need good
interpersonal and teamwork abilities to collaborate with stakeholders across their organization.
Healthcare
Cybersecurity has an important role in healthcare, and it is growing. Healthcare
organizations are prime for cyberattacks due to the vast amounts of personal information they
have access to. Specialists in this industry must be capable of identifying and stopping threats
such as ransomware attacks, data breaches, and phishing schemes. Additionally, they also adhere
to the HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), demanding strict patient
data protection.
Geographic Locations
Virginia
Virginia is situated in the southeast U.S. Richmond, which serves as the state's capital,
with its largest cities being not only the capital, but also Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and
Chesapeake. The government, military, healthcare, and technology sectors are among the key
industries in Virginia, which is also renowned for its robust economy (Charles Loreaux
Quittmeyer & Norrell, 2019). The state has several significant military strategic installations, and
is a major location for tech behemoths like Amazon.
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Texas
Texas is the second-most populous state in the nation as of 2020 as it was projected in the
year 2018 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2018), It is a state in the southern part of the United States. The
key sectors of Texas' economy include oil, healthcare, technology, and agriculture. Several
significant technology firms, including Dell, IBM, and AT&T, are based in the state.
California
California is a state that was projected to be the most populated state in the nation, with
an anticipated population of approximately 39.5 million as of 2020 (United States Census
Bureau, 2021). The biggest economy industries are technology, entertainment, agriculture, and
aerospace. Several significant technology firms, including Apple, Google, and Facebook, call
California home.
Preparation
Training
An education, certification, and practical experience are often combined in training to
become a cybersecurity professional. A bachelor's degree in computer science, information
technology, or a closely related discipline is the entry point for many cybersecurity specialists. A
master's degree or related job experience may also be required by some employers
(Cybersecurity Specialist Salary and Job Description 2023, n.d.).
In addition to a formal education, cybersecurity specialists also gain certifications from
organizations like CompTIA, ISC2, and ISACA (TechRepublic, 2018). With these credentials,
specialists demonstrate understanding of cybersecurity ideas and technologies, required for
specific job tasks.
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Practical experience is also essential skillset. Specialists will initially find themselves in
entry-level professions like security analyst or network administrator before moving up to more
complex ones. Internships are often useful for gaining experience. Maintaining current with the
newest threats, technologies, and market trends requires continual education and training.
Education
A formal education is often needed to prepare for a career as a cybersecurity professional
(Learn How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist – Forbes Advisor, n.d.). A majority of
businesses favor applicants with a bachelor's degree in computer science, information
technology, cybersecurity, or a related discipline. While this is important and often a
conventional route, it is important to note that some opt to take the path of certifications and will
be able to secure employment based on experience and technical skill as evidenced by the
certifications they may hold. These certifications one can pursue demonstrate expertise in
specific cybersecurity areas, such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, and risk management.
They are also platform specific at times which plays a factor in the employment of a specialist.
An aspiring cybersecurity specialist should be mindful of this when considering their
certification path.
Work Experience
An essential component of being ready for a career as a cybersecurity specialist is work
experience (Your Next Move: Cybersecurity Specialist, n.d.). Potential employers look favorably
on, not only a formal education, but also the certifications to support the breadth of experience
one may have.
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Another great way to get practical experience and learn from experts is through
internships, co-op programs, and apprenticeships (Your Next Move: Cybersecurity Specialist,
n.d.). These opportunities expose participants to a variety of cybersecurity activities and
technologies and provide beneficial networking opportunities for their career.
After some time collecting expertise in entry-level roles, cybersecurity specialists may
look to be hired for more specialized positions like a security engineer or security architect.
These kinds of roles require strong communication and problem-solving skills in addition to a
greater understanding of cybersecurity principles and technologies.
Fulfillment of Giftings (SWOT Analysis)
Giftings
Due to my military experience and athletic background, I have developed a strong ability
for critical thinking and problem-solving. These are essential skills required in cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity professionals must be capable of analyzing complex systems and data, identifying
potential vulnerabilities and threats, and developing effective solutions to mitigate those risks.
Communication skills are also crucial for a career in cybersecurity. Due to the nature of
my profession, I have developed these skills through my military services, whose primary role is
storytelling and communication. Cybersecurity professionals may be required to communicate
technical information to non-technical stakeholders in a clear and concise manner. This is akin to
when I must brief a senior leader on a situation, advise them on how to address the situation and
control the information surrounding the situation. They must also be able to work effectively in
teams and collaborate with colleagues from different departments and backgrounds, which is
similar to how the miliary is built.
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Attention to detail is important in cybersecurity as well. This is a vital skill not only in my
current profession, but in the military as a whole. Cybersecurity professionals must be able to
identify even the smallest discrepancies or anomalies that could indicate a potential security
breach. Not doing so could potentially be costly either financially or depending on the industry
fatally costly.
Professional Need Analysis
Gifts needed in cybersecurity are analytical thinking, attention to detail, communication
skills, problem solving skills, technical skills and an ethical mindset. Cybersecurity professionals
need to be able to think analytically in order to analyze complex systems and data, identify
potential vulnerabilities and threats, and develop effective solutions to mitigate those risks. This
requires the ability to think critically and logically.
Cybersecurity professionals must have a keen eye for detail and be able to identify even
the smallest discrepancies or anomalies that could indicate a security breach. They must also be
able to quickly identify and solve complex problems, often under time pressure as there is never
a set time when an attack occurs. Usually, security breaches occur when least expected.
Having a strong understanding of technical concepts and tools is critical in cybersecurity,
due to the nature of what a cybersecurity specialist does and what they may face. They need to
also have the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies as procedures and threats
alike can change rapidly. Finally, specialist must adhere to strict ethical standards and maintain a
strong sense of integrity, as they are responsible for protecting sensitive information and assets in
various industries which may call for these ethical standards to go beyond the pillars of the
organization itself.
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Gifting Gap Analysis
Despite the increased demand for cyber security specialists, there is a shortage of
qualified workers, (Learn How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist – Forbes Advisor, n.d.).
Another shortfall within cybersecurity is a lack of women and minorities. Both groups are
underrepresented in the field, which is an indicator of a serious lack of diversity in the career
field (A Day in the Life of a Security Specialist I CyberDegrees.org, 2022). Another shortfall,
depending on the aspirations of the individual is that although cyber security specialists earn high
wages, there may not be much opportunity for advancement without extra training or
certifications (Cybersecurity Specialist Salary and Job Description 2023, 2023). Other cautions
include high levels of job stress that can result in burnout, turnover, poor work-life balance and
inadequate support networks (TechRepublic, 2018).
There are many opportunities for education and skill development in the field of
cybersecurity. The importance of earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity,
or a similar field is stressed by Forbes Advisor (Learn How to Become a Cybersecurity
Specialist – Forbes Advisor, n.d.). While a degree is an important initial start to the cybersecurity
career field, it is also advised to pursue certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Certified
Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) to gain real-world experience and to be
considered for employment with organizations. It is important for an individual seeking this path.
The significance of continued education and remaining current with the ever-changing threat
environment is vital to being proficient in this field.
Kingdom Mission
By providing security and safety for Christian organizations and institutions, which may
face challenges from cybercriminals looking to steal sensitive information, disrupt services, or
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spread damaging messages, cybersecurity specialists may advance the kingdom by protecting it.
For churches and other religious organizations to operate effectively, sensitive data pertaining to
financial records, member information, and its locations need to be protected, especially in areas
where it is not safe to worship freely. Specialist can assist in preventing cyber-attacks on
religious websites and social media accounts, which are crucial resources for spreading the
gospel and fostering community among believers. For religious institutions, however, issues
including tight funds, old equipment, and a lack of knowledge about cybersecurity dangers can
be problematic. Jesus says that Christians shouldn't accumulate wealth Matthew 6:19-21 (ESV)
states: "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where
thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor
rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your
heart will be also," (Matthew 6:19-21 ESV - - Bible Gateway, n.d.). This passage focuses on the
importance of safeguarding spiritual treasures rather than physical, Cybersecurity specialist can
advance this with their career by assisting ministries where they may not get paid as well, but
their mission and calling would be great.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is impossible to overestimate the importance of cybersecurity in the
world or our current digital era. The demand for cybersecurity specialists continues to arise as
businesses continue to rely more and more on technology. These specialists are essential in the
design, implementation, and testing of security solutions that protect sensitive data from online
attacks. With attractive pay and benefits, the cybersecurity sector provides a wide range of
options and employment opportunities. People who want to work in this field need to have a
solid grasp of computer networks and security as well as a dedication to staying current on
25
emerging trends and security threats. Cybersecurity experts can further their careers and aid in
defending enterprises against potential cyberattacks with the appropriate training, qualifications,
and experience.
Running head: The Career of Cybersecurity Specialist Explored 2
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