Cybersecurity Jobs in the USA Hiring Entry-Level

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Do I Need Experience For Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs?

 No! Employers in the cybersecurity sector are primarily interested in your qualifications and skills when it comes to hiring you for a cybersecurity position. A degree in computer science, a certification in digital forensics or as a Certified Ethical Hacker, technical and soft skills, and a willingness to learn can help you obtain entry-level cybersecurity positions and break into the field.

Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs

There are numerous entry-level jobs in cybersecurity, even for people with no formal degree or experience. Starting with general roles that require a wide range of skills is a fantastic way to get into the profession, but self-initiated study and certifications can also be helpful. Some of the best entry-level positions for novices are as follows:

• Analyst of Information Security

They keep an eye on and safeguard business information and systems by controlling access and assessing security risks. Some of their key skills include Teamwork, analytics, and cloud security. They earn $77k annually.

• Responder/Incident Analyst

 keeps an eye on warnings, looks into occurrences, and aids in stopping breaches in the future. Their skill set includes Stress management, incident response, and CompTIA Security+. They also earn $62k annually.

• IT auditors 

generate reports, prepare for audits, and make sure businesses follow industry standards. He possesses Report authoring, communication, and analytics skills. They earn $79k annually.

• Junior penetration tester 

Simulates cyberattacks to check systems for weaknesses. Junior penetration testers possess reverse engineering, problem-solving, and meticulousness skills.  They earn $80,000 a year.

• Specialist in Security Awareness and Training

They help staff identify and reduce cybersecurity threats by creating and delivering training programs. N/A for communication and instructional design.

How do I Start Entry-level cybersecurity jobs?

As an Entry professional, you might enter the cybersecurity field if you Learn about the various career paths available in the highly sought-after cybersecurity industry. To successfully traverse the terrain, follow this detailed advice.

• Do some study in the field of cybersecurity

Before this, we mentioned a few cybersecurity career roles, beginning with entry-level ones. It is possible to move laterally if you possess technical IT expertise and transferable skills. Learn more about these job options. What abilities do you now possess that fit particular employment requirements? Given that you have an engineering degree, you might like to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Search LinkedIn for people in positions you want to have. What credentials do they possess? Are they certified in any particular field or hold a master’s degree?

• Improve your abilities

You can begin developing the abilities you need once you’ve determined the kinds of cybersecurity jobs as an entry-level professional that you’re interested in. Generally speaking, you should be well-versed in the following: Administration of networks and systems, because for every entry-level job,  having a solid understanding of networks and systems is essential. Also, the Knowledge of operating systems. Computer forensics, cybersecurity research and analysis, and penetration testing all require proficiency with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. Also, be familiar with Google Cloud, AWS, and Azure. Furthermore, coding abilities like Python, C and C++, JavaScript, and SQL are among the languages you should be at ease using. Security audits and risk analysis are essential for planning how to counter possible threats.

• Expand your network

This can be done by introducing yourself through a mutual relationship or by giving your name a face. Networking can help you stand out from the competition. You might already know someone who works in cybersecurity who could recommend you for a position at their organisation or offer you insightful advice. Send a message to hiring managers to express your interest in a position you have applied for, or reach out to cybersecurity experts on LinkedIn for informative interviews. Joining a professional network on Facebook or Meetup to get in touch with local cybersecurity experts is another way to expand your network.

• Become familiar with cybersecurity software and technologies

Along the road, you’ll probably learn about some cybersecurity hardware, software, and tools as you learn some of the abilities. Learning the fundamentals of using at least one cloud program, such as Azure, is a smart idea. This should help you comprehend how AWS and Google Cloud operate. Free trials are available for several programs, so you can get a feel for them. Businesses will probably want to know how to use any tools and software they use, so it’s best to be ready for anything in your entry-level role. 

• Get a little experience in the workplace

One of the best ways to learn and showcase your skills in your entry-level job seeking stage to potential employers is to gain practical experience working on cybersecurity initiatives. If auditing, consulting, or incident response are your areas of interest, you should seek internships and entry-level jobs that focus on these areas, or at the very least, one where you can collaborate with others who do.

• Think of a certification

Having a cybersecurity certification shows hiring employers that you possess a real qualification and a specific amount of experience. For instance, the well-liked entry-level job certification CompTIA Security+ attests to your possession of the fundamental abilities required for a cybersecurity job. Another certification that shows your competence to evaluate security flaws and compliance reports is the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) accreditation.

• Apply for jobs and update your resume

 Lastly, add all of your new certificates, abilities, and experience to your resume. To show that you possess the particular skills listed in the job description, it is advisable to customise your cover letter and resume for every position you apply for. Moreover, apply for jobs now. Before you discover the appropriate job, you might need to apply to a number of them and go through the interview process, but that’s common. You will eventually land the cybersecurity job of your dreams if you don’t lose sight of your aim. 

11 Highest Paying Cybersecurity Jobs in the USA

• A penetration tester 

Penetration testers, sometimes referred to as ethical hackers, model cyberattacks to assess how secure networks and computer systems are. They deliberately attempt to disable or get around security measures to find vulnerabilities. Penetration testers obtain unauthorised access through hacking methods such as social engineering, SQL injection, and port scanning. They record vulnerabilities that have been exploited and offer suggestions for enhancing security. Strong analytical, communication, and technical abilities are required. Penetration testers can obtain certification from groups such as the EC-Council. The average wage is $118,128 annually, and over the next ten years, employment is expected to increase by 33%.

• Engineer for Network Security 

An organization’s network security systems are designed, constructed, and maintained by network security engineers. They set up intrusion detection systems, firewalls, VPNs, and other security software. To identify irregularities and look into breaches when they happen, network security engineers also keep an eye on networks. Proficiency in troubleshooting and familiarity with protocols such as TCP/IP are crucial. The average salary for this position is $115,949 annually, and as cyber dangers rise, it is expected to expand by 33% this decade.

• Software Developer for Security 

To assist in preventing unwanted access to computer systems, networks, and data, security software engineers design and maintain security software. They review the needs of the system and create security measures, including firewalls, encryption, and authentication. Strong programming abilities and familiarity with various networks, operating systems, and programming languages such as C++ and Java are essential for security software engineers. They constantly examine software for vulnerabilities and work with other IT specialists to comprehend security requirements. With an average annual salary of $119,166, this position is expected to increase by 22% over the next ten years.

• Analyst for Identity and Access Management 

Analysts of identity and access management are in charge of user authorisation and authentication. Moreover, they guarantee that networks, systems, and data are only accessible by authorised users. Analysts set up login procedures, change passwords, grant access, keep an eye out for odd activities, and remove permissions as necessary. It is beneficial to be familiar with identity management programs such as SailPoint and CyberArk. Over the next ten years, employment is expected to increase by 14%, and the average wage is $104,722 per year.

• Risk Analyst for Security 

Data, facilities, and computer systems within an organisation are all at risk of security breaches, which security risk analysts evaluate and record. They carry out risk assessments to find weak points and calculate possible effects on the company. Also, security risk analysts provide policy, training, and other risk-reduction strategies. They keep up with emerging technologies and security threats. It is necessary to have strong communication and analytical abilities. The average yearly pay is $114,330, and over the next ten years, employment is predicted to increase by 33%.

• Cybersecurity Expert 

Cybersecurity professionals defend a company’s networks and computer systems from online threats. In addition to configuring firewalls, they also monitor network traffic, identify intrusions, and implement security policies and controls. To avoid malware and hacking and to investigate sophisticated persistent threats, cybersecurity professionals need to possess good technical capabilities. Certifications that demonstrate knowledge include the CompTIA Security+. The employment rate is expected to increase by 33% this decade, and the average wage is $107,569 annually.

• The Digital Forensic Investigator 

Computer forensics specialists, sometimes known as digital forensic investigators, find and save digital data for use in investigations and court cases. They handle issues involving data breaches and cybercrime. Digital evidence analysis, file recovery, data decryption, and device collection are the responsibilities of forensic investigators.

• Analyst of Incident Response 

In an organisation, incident response analysts identify and address cybersecurity incidents or breaches. Also, utilising security tools, they keep an eye on networks, get alerts, and look into questionable activities. They lessen the effects of incidents by separating impacted systems and gathering digital proof.

• Analyst for Information Security 

Information security analysts design and implement security measures to safeguard computer networks and systems within an organisation. Monitoring systems for security risks, looking into breaches, and analysing data to find weaknesses are some of their responsibilities. They also create best practices and standards for information security, test defences, and suggest security improvements. Certifications such as the CISSP aid in the employment eligibility of information security analysts. This decade, employment is expected to increase by 33%, and the average wage is $92,509 annually.

• Analyst for Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity analysts defend an organization’s data and computer infrastructure from online attacks. To keep an eye on network activity and spot intrusions, they install and utilise security technologies. In order to spot trends and questionable activity, analysts evaluate vulnerabilities, react to security incidents, and examine data. Furthermore, knowledge is visible through certifications like the EC-Council’s CEH. The average wage is $99,538 annually, and over the next 10 years, employment will increase by 33%.

• Operator of Security 

To keep an eye on an organization’s security infrastructure, security operators employ software tools and applications. They keep an eye out for threats, policy infractions, malicious code, and unusual activity in real time. Security operators handle incident triage and preliminary investigations. Additionally, they create tickets and alerts to inform the relevant teams about problems. Over the next 10 years, employment will increase by 33%, and this job pays an average of $90,265 annually.

How Much Does an Entry-Level Cybersecurity Person Make in the USA?

In the USA, an entry-level cybersecurity analyst makes, on average, $99,400 annually as of June 11, 2025. In case you require a basic pay calculation, that comes to about $47.79 per hour. This amounts to $1,911 each week or $8,283 per month. The top earners make $137,500 annually, while the majority of entry-level cybersecurity analysts make between $79,500 and $115,500, despite ZipRecruiter showing annual salaries as low as $43,000 and as high as $150,000.

Given the wide range of average salaries for entry-level cybersecurity analysts (up to 36,000), there may be plenty of room for growth and higher compensation depending on factors like years of experience, location, and skill level. Recent ZipRecruiter job posts indicate that there is a high level of activity in the entry-level cybersecurity job market in Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding area. On average, an entry-level cybersecurity job in your region earns $102,396 a year, which is $1 (0.014%) higher than the $99,400 national average. Ranked first out of 50 states in the country for the salary of entry-level cybersecurity jobs.

Conclusion

In today’s digital-first world, entry-level cybersecurity jobs in the U.S. are more than just a stepping stone; they are a critical first line of defense in protecting data, systems, and people. While breaking into the field can feel overwhelming at first, especially with its evolving tools and jargon, there’s never been a better time to start. With the right blend of foundational knowledge, certifications, curiosity, and hands-on practice, you can land a role that not only pays well but also makes a real impact. Moreover, whether you’re transitioning from another career or just starting, the path into cybersecurity is wide open and constantly growing. The key is to stay curious, keep learning, and don’t underestimate what you bring to the table.