Securing your first cyber security job: 3 things you need to know

Find out how to secure your first cyber security job from our business director for cyber security, James Walsh.  

Digital transformation is continuing to accelerate, and organisations are increasingly looking for people who can keep their data and systems secure. With cyber security professionals in high demand, there’s never been a better time to make the move into a cyber role. 

So, how do you secure your first cyber job? James Walsh, our business director for cyber security, connects tech and cyber professionals with career-defining roles across Ireland and the UK on a daily basis; we’ve asked James the questions on every aspiring cyber security expert’s lips. 

Securing your first cyber security job at a glance 

In this blog, you’ll find out the answers to questions that are important to consider before starting your career in cyber security: 

• What’s the best thing about working in cyber security? 
• What qualifications are needed for a cyber security job? 
• What should you include on your CV when applying to your first cyber role? 

You can browse the latest cyber security roles on our website. 

‘Cyber is one of the most diverse areas of technology, in terms of the skillsets needed and the types of people working in the space.’ 

What’s the best thing about working in cyber security? 

One of the best things about working in cyber security is that no two days are the same – you constantly need to have your finger on the pulse when it comes to the latest technology trends and vulnerabilities. Cyber is one of the most diverse areas of technology, in terms of the skillsets needed and the types of people working in the space. The impressive salaries are an added bonus! 

What qualifications are needed for a cyber security job? 

While there are some cyber security-specific degrees available in Ireland, generally we find people wanting to work in cyber are those who have developed advanced computer skills from a young age. Often these people will make for the best penetration testers, despite not having formal qualifications in cyber security. 

Alternatively, there are some cyber security apprenticeships. Places are limited and highly sought-after, with apprenticeship schemes looking for top-tier students from leading schools and universities across the country. 

What should you include on your CV when applying to your first cyber role? 

If you’re looking for your first cyber security job, chances are you may not have specific cyber skills or experience in the field. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have anything to shout about – maybe you’ve worked on a cyber-based project at school or university, or perhaps you’ve attended a tech conference recently? Anything that demonstrates your enthusiasm and interest in the cyber space will be looked upon favourably by a hiring manager. 

Reflect on previous roles you’ve had, tech-focused or otherwise, and think about any examples of when you’ve learned how to use new tools or systems without prior knowledge. These instances will demonstrate to a hiring manager that you are adaptable and willing to learn, two qualities that are very important when working in the ever-changing cyber space.

Securing your first cyber job: next steps 

Feeling inspired to enter the cyber security space? If you’re looking for a diverse career in which you can develop your tech skills and be at the forefront of tackling cyber-crime then take your first steps to secure your first cyber security job today.