Get Ahead of the Threat – Federal Cybersecurity Careers

One of the most rapidly expanding fields today is cybersecurity. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the demand for Information Security Analysts is projected to grow by 33% over the next 10 years. As the federal government faces increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks from criminal organizations, state actors, and hacktivists, there is an urgent need for cybersecurity talent across all levels and technical capabilities. Federal Agencies aggressively recruiting for cybersecurity talent include (but are not limited to): Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, National Security Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to name a few. The following post will focus on the cybersecurity needs of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Cybersecurity Service

DHS Cybersecurity Service’s mission is to

  • Secure federal government information systems
  • Assess and counter evolving cybersecurity risks
  • Respond to cybersecurity incidents
  • Prevent and disrupt criminal use of cyberspace
  • Strengthen the security and resilience of critical infrastructure

Did you know? Binghamton University has been designated by DHS and the National Security Agency as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research (CAE-R). On top of that, The Watson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers an Advanced Certificate in Cyber Security for masters level students. Two amazing reasons to dig more deeply into this career path! 

DHS Cybersecurity employees work across 17 specializations from Cybersecurity Architecture, Cybersecurity Defensive Operations and Engineering, to Policy, Vulnerability Assessment and Program Management. 

The following Capabilities Guide provides a common language and a clear framework for each specialization and the associated competencies of each. This Capabilities Guide framework is integrated into the selection, development and performance management of all employees and can be used as a self-assessment tool when considering the types of positions to pursue, and a skill development plan for the future!

DHS hires employees in 5 different tracks from entry level to leadership roles and has provided fact sheets for each level of interest. You can even get in touch with a recruiter directly by emailing:  cybersecurityservice@hq.dhs.gov 

The Entry Level and Developmental Career Tracks are for students and recent graduates who are just starting out – Entry Level positions require no experience necessary to apply! 

Entry-Level Track Guide

  • Cybersecurity Specialist: An entry-level cybersecurity professional who is primarily a learner participating in a formal development program to gain technical expertise
    • Typical Experience: 0–2 years of work experience—exclusive of internships
    • Typical Starting Salary Range: $66,200 – $86,000

Developmental Track Guide:   

  • Associate Cybersecurity Specialist: A cybersecurity professional with some experience who applies still-burgeoning technical expertise to perform routine work with significant supervision and clear guidance
    • Typical Experience 3+ years of cybersecurity work experience
    • Typical Starting Salary Range: $80,800 – $105,500

Educational Requirements: Most cybersecurity roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. However, for advanced roles like Penetration Tester or Policy Analyst, a master’s degree or specialized certifications like these found on the online learning platform Coursera: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)) can be advantageous. 

Professional Networks: Engage with cybersecurity communities and attend conferences like DEFCON, Black Hat, and Federal Cybersecurity Summits. These events can provide networking opportunities and help you stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and solutions.

Cybersecurity is the fastest-growing field in the federal government, with the Department of Homeland Security leading the charge. The variety of cybersecurity roles at DHS means there are numerous pathways to making an impact in this critical field. Whether you’re interested in ethical hacking, policy development, or managing large-scale cybersecurity efforts, DHS offers opportunities for you to protect the nation from an ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

By Jessica Lane-Rwabukwisi
Jessica Lane-Rwabukwisi Senior Academic Partnerships Specialist