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Technology

Information Security Engineers

Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation. May oversee the assessment of information security systems.

Median salary (BLS)

$116,580

10th–90th percentile (BLS)

$56k – $188k

Job outlook

+8% (faster than average)

AI exposure

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports one wage for this occupational group, which covers 9 related roles — so read the median as an approximate group figure, and the range as the truer picture for this specific title. BLS source.

Early-career check: graduates of the matching programs below typically earn $109,000 ten years after starting college — an early-career figure, vs. the all-experience BLS median above. Source: U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.

Plan a path to Information Security Engineers

Qualification costsStack incomeBest cities/statesSchool ROIJob-posting fitTailored resume

Education

Typical entry: Bachelor's degree

Plan my path to this →

Typical progression

  1. Information Security Engineers Intern

    Internship

    $36,000

    ~4 mos to advance

  2. Junior Information Security Engineers

    Entry / Junior

    $55,940

    ~2 yrs to advance

  3. Information Security Engineers

    Established

    $116,580

    ~3 yrs to advance

  4. Senior Information Security Engineers

    Senior

    $152,525

Internships are a common on-ramp here — they speed up landing that first role and improve your odds, which is why the Safe and High-ceiling plans build one in.

Key skills

A typical day

  • •Identify security system weaknesses, using penetration tests.
  • •Coordinate monitoring of networks or systems for security breaches or intrusions.
  • •Assess the quality of security controls, using performance indicators.
  • •Train staff on, and oversee the use of, information security standards, policies, and best practices.
  • •Scan networks, using vulnerability assessment tools to identify vulnerabilities.

Fields of study

Any field

Top colleges for Technology

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Reputation-based selection; stats shown are outcome data per school.