IT security expert.

An IT security specialist's specific tasks and responsibilities depend on the industry and the company they work for. Their daily routine typically includes the following:

• Ensuring security during the software development phases: as an IT security expert, you identify vulnerabilities in software or hardware systems. Throughout the development process, you need to recognize potential threats and close security gaps in network systems by implementing firewalls.
• Monitoring suspicious activities: You need to design various security systems that send alerts about intrusions or intruders. For example, you can establish an authorization protocol to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data. If an unauthorized person attempts to gain access, the system will notify you immediately so you can take prompt action.
• Security incident reporting: when monitoring security systems, all incidents must be reported, and strategies should be proposed to reduce future risks. It is also important to document security system updates and to implement new protective measures and protocols for easier tracking.
• Security system checks: cybercriminals are constantly developing new methods to breach computer systems. Keeping up with their tactics is becoming increasingly difficult; therefore, regular security audits are essential. These audits involve diagnosing any changes to identify unknown violations and developing strategies to enhance security. Additionally, continuous monitoring of the effectiveness of protective systems is necessary, along with preparing reports on findings and recommendations.
• Creating and implementing security policies: after identifying security gaps in computer systems, you need to develop security protocols to address them. It’s also your responsibility to raise awareness about security policies and oversee the implementation of security measures.

As an IT security specialist, you can find opportunities across various industries that rely on different technologies. You might work in-house for a specific company, managing all cybersecurity issues, or at an IT consulting firm. Regardless of where you work, most of your tasks are performed in an office environment, involving analyzing computer systems and identifying ways to improve security. If you're employed by an IT consulting company, you typically work on-site at the client's office. However, there are also opportunities to resolve issues within the client's network remotely, without being physically present.

A career in IT security is not your typical 9-to-5 job. Data breaches can happen at any time, and you need to be ready to prevent or respond to them. Most technical and administrative tasks require about 40 hours of work per week. However, during active threats, overtime is often necessary, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Most IT security professionals work full-time, but part-time options are also available. You can work remotely or as a freelancer on individual projects. IT security work generally involves minimal travel unless you work for a consulting firm, in which case you may need to visit clients occasionally.

Due to the increased shift towards online services, cybersecurity experts are in high demand to protect computer systems and prevent data breaches. As an IT security professional, you can focus on general tasks or specialize in specific areas, expanding your career opportunities. By obtaining additional certifications, you can advance to roles such as information security manager or lead cybersecurity risk analyst. Other areas you might specialize in include compliance officer, cloud security analyst, or penetration tester. Alternatively, you could become an independent consultant or start your own business, but success in that path requires exceptional IT security knowledge and experience.

There are several advantages to working with a Randstad consultant when searching for an IT security specialist position

• a consultant who is well-versed in the IT sector of the labor market supports the selection process
• you can find a wide range of job opportunities on our website
• whether you're looking for a fixed-term or permanent position, we help you find the job that best suits you

Most IT security experts enter the field with a degree in information technology. Additionally, backgrounds in mathematics, natural sciences, or network engineering can also provide a solid foundation.

At some universities, IT security expert training is available in the form of a 2-3 semester specialized program. This offers more targeted knowledge in the field compared to undergraduate programs.

More and more opportunities are emerging to learn the fundamentals of IT security through bootcamp-style training programs. For those interested in the field, completing such a few-month course provides a great introductory experience.

You can enhance your skills by obtaining certifications, helping to increase your competitiveness in the market.

• Start with the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification, which is recommended for entry-level cybersecurity analysts.

• With two years of experience, the CEH, CISM, and CISSP certifications are suitable for advancing your career.

• After ten years of experience, earn the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) credential and become an auditor. You can also obtain other certifications related to your field.

As an IT security specialist, your ability to solve problems plays a crucial role in your daily tasks. You need creative problem-solving abilities to address complex security issues within computer systems and digital environments.

Cybersecurity depends on technology, and an IT security professional must possess exceptional computer skills to perform complex tasks such as updating information security systems and designing and implementing measures that provide real-time protection against data breaches.

As an IT security expert, you need to be alert and detail-oriented to notice even the smallest changes in the system. Paying close attention to details helps identify vulnerabilities in IT systems and detect network breaches.

Works closely with various employees to resolve safety issues, so strong communication skills are essential to explain findings and concerns in plain language. This skill is also valuable when developing safety procedures for a company.

An IT security expert monitors computer systems and digital environments to prevent and defend against data leaks and external attacks. Additionally, they analyze the IT infrastructure and assess its vulnerabilities.

Our salary calculator allows you to explore pay ranges and see how much a beginner or experienced IT security professional earns.

A skilled IT security professional possesses exceptional problem-solving abilities and technical expertise. Gaining experience in specialized areas, such as ethical hacking, can advance your career. Such experience helps you understand how to better protect systems from data breaches.

If you have advanced computer skills and/or relevant experience, formal education is not a requirement. However, most professionals enter the field after completing some form of IT training.

Cybersecurity can be challenging if you lack the deep technical knowledge needed for success. It requires a strong professional commitment to stand out as an IT security expert over time with your expertise.

Applying for an IT security specialist position is easy: create your profile on Randstad and browse our job listings near you. Once you're logged in, you can apply with just one click for the opportunity that interests you, directly through our website!