What Are the Main Types of IT Security Engineers?

To become an IT security engineer means that you have to be responsible for implementing secure systems to protect an organisation’s digital assets, monitoring security breaches, and responding to cyber-attacks. The field is broad and offers different specialisations based on the type of security systems and areas of focus:

• Network Security Engineer: This is an all-encompassing broad category focusing on ensuring the organisation’s network infrastructure is secure. The network security engineer designs and implements firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security measures to safeguard against unauthorised access and cyberattacks.
• Application Security Engineer: Application security engineers shore up an organisation’s software. They find vulnerabilities within applications and then figure out how to mitigate the risk of those attacks so that the application doesn’t have exploits.
• Cloud Security Engineer: Since cloud computing has become mainstream, a cloud security engineer is responsible for securing data and services stored in the cloud. They ensure that cloud environments—such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud—have proper configurations and encrypted data and comply with all industry standards.
• Incident Response Engineer: Engineers devoted to responding to security breaches. They are tasked with identifying the cause of a breach, mitigating damage, and taking steps to prevent similar breaches from happening again.
• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker): Penetration testers or ethical hackers simulate a cyberattack on an organisation’s system to pinpoint vulnerabilities and make recommendations for security improvement.
• Identity and Access Management (IAM) Engineer: These engineers are responsible for managing and securing the access of a system’s users. They manage the types of user access allowed to a system’s data, often accomplished through technologies such as multi-factor authentication and single sign-on (SSO).
• Compliance and Risk Engineer: These security engineers check that an organisation’s IT estate complies with industry standards and legislation. They audit the risks and design and implement controls to meet compliance standards, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

What Does an IT Security Engineer Do?

IT Security Engineers are responsible for ensuring the security of an organisation’s systems and networks by implementing various measures to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats. Their duties include configuring security systems, monitoring for breaches, and responding to incidents when they occur. Here’s a breakdown of the key responsibilities of an IT Security Engineer:

• Design and Install Security Systems: IT Security Engineers design and install security measures to protect an organisation’s IT infrastructure, including firewalls, encryption protocols, intrusion detection systems, and the like.
• Monitor Network Traffic: They monitor network traffic for malicious activity and potential security breaches. This includes reviewing log data, conducting vulnerability assessments, and utilising security tools to identify threats.
• React to security incidents: In the event of a security incident, IT security engineers identify the source of the attack, contain the damage, and initiate recovery. They also investigate how the breach occurred and recommend changes to mitigate the risks in the future.
• Conduct Vulnerability Assessments: An IT Security Engineer regularly performs vulnerability assessments against the systems in the organisation. This can be achieved through a penetration test, an automated scan, or a manual review of security rules and protocols.
• Set up Access Controls: They manage access to the company’s systems by designing user authentication processes, controlling permissions, and ensuring that sensitive data is only accessible by authorised users.
• Maintain Security Documentation: IT security engineers must ensure that all documentation related to security policies, procedures, and incident reports is up-to-date and in compliance with industry standards.
• Stay Updated on Cybersecurity Trends: Staying up-to-date on cybersecurity trends is essential because the cybersecurity industry is constantly evolving, with new threats, security trends, and best practices emerging regularly. To stay current, IT security engineers regularly attend training, workshops, and conferences to gain access to the latest developments.

Average IT Security Engineer Salary

IT Security Engineer salaries in the UK differ according to experience, industry, and location. You can earn more in financial hubs such as London or in industries that rely heavily on client/patient data, such as finance and healthcare. Below is a summary of typical IT security engineer salaries.

• Entry-Level IT Security Engineer: Entry-level IT Security Engineers can expect to earn between £30,000 and £45,000 per year.
• Senior IT Security Engineer: An experienced IT Security Engineer can earn around £50,000 to £70,000 annually.
• Senior IT Security Engineer: Senior engineers, especially those at big organisations or those working in in-demand industries, can make between £70,000 and £100,000+ per year.

IT Security Engineer Skills

To succeed as an IT Security Engineer, you need a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure. IT Security Engineers must understand complex security technologies and stay current with the latest cyber threats. Here are the key skills required for a career as an IT Security Engineer:

• Network Security: IT Security Engineers can benefit from a thorough knowledge of network security, including firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), and intrusion detection systems (IDS). They will also develop a fine-grained understanding of common network protocols, such as TCP/IP.
• Encryption and Cryptography: Understanding how encryption works is the key to protecting your data at rest and in transit. You should know how to configure and manage encryption protocols such as SSL/TLS, AES, and RSA.
• Vulnerability Management: An IT Security Engineer should be able to identify weaknesses in a system or application’s design or implementation by running vulnerability scans, penetration tests, and other assessment tools.
• Incident Response: When a security incident occurs, engineers must respond to prevent further damage. This often requires forensics, threat detection, and other incident response skills.
• Scripting and Automation: Scripting is the way security tasks can be automated. For example, many security tasks, such as monitoring, patch management, and others, can be automated. IT security engineers should be comfortable with scripting languages such as Python, Bash, and others.
• Risk Assessment: To manage cybersecurity, the IT security engineer must assess the organisation’s system and network. The candidate will need to have an idea of how risk can be assessed and prioritised in this task. For instance, should boiling the kettle for a cup of tea require the same security measures as dealing with a bomb?
• Knowledge of Compliance Standards: IT security engineers must have a working knowledge of relevant compliance standards, such as GDPR, PCI DSS, ISO 27001, and NIST. Maintaining compliance with such standards is an integral part of the job.

IT Security Engineer Tips

Here are some practical tips for aspiring IT Security Engineers who want to build a successful career:

• Get Cybersecurity Certifications: Consider certification through industry-recognised bodies such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or CompTIA Security+.
• Get Hands-On Experience: Working as an intern, co-op, entry-level IT worker, network administrator, system administrator, or help desk support will help build the technical skills for your intended role as an IT security engineer.
• Pen Testing Practice: Practise penetration testing using Kali Linux, Metasploit, or Burp Suite to check for system vulnerabilities and learn ethical hacking techniques.
• Stay informed about cybersecurity developments: Cybersecurity is evolving rapidly. Attend webinars, take online courses, and read industry blogs to stay current on new threats, tools, and best practices.
• Build a Home Lab: Create a home cybersecurity lab where you can experiment with security configurations, firewalls, and penetration testing and get hands-on experience.

IT Security Engineer Requirements

An IT security engineer must have strong IT and cyber security certifications, a solid educational background, and previous work experience. Below, discover the most common job requirements for becoming an IT security engineer.

• Bachelor’s in IT or Cybersecurity: Most IT security engineers have a bachelor’s in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. Some employers might accept candidates with other technical undergraduate degrees so long as they have strong cybersecurity skills.
• Cybersecurity Certifications: CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+, or similar industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications Indicate that you know what you’re doing and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that you stay current in your knowledge of the latest developments in cybersecurity.
• Relative experience: Employers will want to see that you have a few years of experience in IT—as a network administrator, system administrator, or in a security operations centre, for example. IT security is all about the details; you can’t forget them.
• Knowledge of Security Tools: IT Security Engineers must be well-versed in tools such as Wireshark, Splunk, Nessus, and Snort. Knowing these tools will help them monitor the network and detect possible security threats.

How to Become an IT Security Engineer

Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming an IT security engineer in the UK:

• Earn a Degree in IT or Cybersecurity: Start by earning a degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field. This provides a solid foundation in IT principles and security practices.
• Get IT Experience: As a network administrator or systems administrator, begin that experience in managing and securing systems, as this is key to being an IT Security Engineer.
• Earn Cybersecurity Certifications: Consider acquiring certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or CompTIA Security+.
• Develop Hands-On Skills: Build practical skills in areas such as network security, encryption , and vulnerability management. You can gain these skills by setting up a home lab, participating in cybersecurity competitions (such as Capture the Flag (CTF) events), or completing hands-on training courses.
• Get Hands-On Cybersecurity Experience: Transition into a security-focused role, such as a security examiner or incident responder. These roles will give you the hands-on IT security experience you need.
• Keep Up To Date With Industry Trends: The cybersecurity field is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay current with evolving threats, technologies, and regulations. Subscribe to cybersecurity publication channels, attend webinars, and follow cybersecurity leaders on social media.
• Sow your network: It’s a good idea to always look for new opportunities for your career. Attend cybersecurity organisations such as ISACA or (ISC)² to discuss the latest trends and join online forums for professionals in the same field.
• Earn Advanced Certifications: As you gain more experience, seek out the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), allowing you to move into more senior roles.
• Apply for IT Security Engineer Positions: Once you have the necessary education, certifications, and experience, start applying for IT Security Engineer positions. Tailor your CV to highlight your technical skills, certifications, and relevant hands-on experience.
• Keep Learning and Evolving: Cybersecurity is an evolving field. Stay active in the cybersecurity community by taking more advanced courses, earning new certifications, and keeping up with the latest developments.

Get Qualified as an IT Security Engineer

Ethical Hacking: Network Security Essentials, Online Electrical Engineering Course, Basics of Electrical Engineering, Network Engineering Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Become an IT Security Engineer?

If you’re looking for a vibrant, exciting role with excellent job stability, good pay, and opportunities for career progression, then a career as an IT security engineer could be your path. As a security engineer, you’ll be responsible for systems that range from cyber-attack threats to their digital assets. With the demand for cybersecurity professionals set to increase in the next couple of years, there has never been a better time to delve into a career in this field.

Is Being an IT Security Engineer a Good Career Choice for You?

Becoming an IT security engineer might be a great career path if you like solving skills and are interested in cybersecurity. The job requires you to keep up with the latest technologies and threats, work under pressure, and be proactive about security.

IT Security Engineer Salaries

Salaries for IT Security Engineers in the UK vary based on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically pay £30,000 to £45,000, while experienced engineers can earn £50,000 to £70,000. Senior engineers in high-demand industries may earn upwards of £100,000+.

Which Qualifications Can Help with a Career as an IT Security Engineer?

A degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity is often required. Additionally, certifications such as CISSP, CEH, and CompTIA Security+ can significantly improve your career prospects.

Do I Need Experience to Get Started as an IT Security Engineer?

Yes, you need to have experience in IT roles like network admin or systems admin before moving into a role more focused on cybersecurity. Also, the certifications help. Experience in IT matters, and certifications help make you an IT Security Engineer.

IT Security Engineer Career Outlook

As cyber threats become more threatening to organisations, there’s a growing demand for IT security engineers. The role comes with excellent job security, and you could qualify in specific areas such as cloud security, penetration testing, or incident response. The prospects are strong, with a good chance of progression to senior security or cybersecurity leadership roles.

IT Security Engineer Hierarchy and Progressing Within the Role

Once you become an IT security engineer, you can further your career to become a senior security engineer, security architect, or even a chief information security officer (CISO). As your career progresses, you may move towards managing teams of security engineers, building strategies for an organisation, or consulting major companies.

IT Security Engineer Exit Options and Opportunities

For IT security engineers with some experience, the career exit opportunities are many. Some enter the niche fields of cybersecurity consultancy, penetration testing (or ‘pen testing’), or compliance management. Others enter management as security managers or CISOs. Still, others go freelance or start their cybersecurity consulting firms.