The Top In-Demand Cybersecurity Jobs and How to Get Them

Cybersecurity jobs are booming, with over 450,000 open roles in the U.S. from 2023 to 2024, according to Cyberseek. But how do you land one, especially without a tech degree or cyber experience?

What You’ll Learn

In this blog, you’ll get a better understanding of:

• The top cybersecurity jobs for 2025 and beyond and what they pay

• Which certifications align to get you started in these roles

• What kind of experience you’ll need to get the job

The Top Cybersecurity Jobs in 2025

According to CyberSN’s 2024 U.S. Cybersecurity Job Posting Data Report—which analyzed over 140,000 monthly postings from Fortune 500 companies and 30+ major job boards—the roles on this list are among the 10 most in-demand cybersecurity roles in the U.S. These roles give us insight into the current hiring market and the changing priorities in cybersecurity like threat detection, incident response and risk management.

If you’re a complete beginner to tech, you may want to consider first taking our IT Support Specialist program to learn the basics before starting in cyber.

Here’s a closer look at four of the most in-demand cybersecurity roles and how you can break into each one.

1. Security Analyst

• Median Salary: $124,910*

• Certifications to Start: CompTIA Security+, EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND), ECCouncil Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Security Analysts are like the digital security guard for a company. They keep an eye on systems and networks, watching for anything suspicious like unusual login attempts or unexpected traffic. When something looks off, they dig in to figure out what’s going on and stop any potential threats. It’s part detective work, part problem-solving and it’s a crucial first line of defense in cybersecurity. If you love solving tough puzzles and spotting the difference, this is the role for you.

You can start your path to becoming a Security Analyst by enrolling in ACI Tech Academy’s Information Security Analyst program, where you’ll prepare for several certifications relevant for this role. After completing the program, gain hands-on experience in entry-level roles such as IT support, network technician, or SOC analyst (Tier 1) to build your skills with real-world tools and systems. With around 6–12 months of experience and your certifications in hand, you’ll be ready to apply for Security Analyst positions and step into one of the most in-demand roles in tech.

*According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

2. Cybersecurity Specialist

• Average Salary: $93,170*

• Certifications to Start: CompTIA Security+, EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND), EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Cybersecurity Specialists are the hands-on defenders in an organization’s security team. They help set up secure systems, monitor networks for vulnerabilities, and respond quickly to threats like malware, phishing attacks, or unauthorized access. This role often involves configuring firewalls, managing antivirus software, and performing routine security audits. It’s a great fit for someone who wants to combine technical skills with a proactive, protective mindset.

To become a Cybersecurity Specialist, enroll in our Information Security Analyst program. You’ll prepare for the Security+, CND and CEH certifications to help you build your foundation in cybersecurity. After completing the program, look for roles like IT technician, junior security specialist, or SOC analyst (Tier 1) to gain valuable, real-world experience. Within a year of hands-on work, you’ll be positioned to step into a Cybersecurity Specialist role and begin protecting digital environments at a higher level.

*According to Ziprecruiter

3. Penetration tester

• Average Salary: $119,895*

• Certifications to Start: CompTIA Security+, EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND), EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), PenTest+

Penetration Testers are the ultimate puzzle-solvers in cybersecurity. Their job is to think like a hacker so they can outsmart one. Pen Testers simulate real-world cyberattacks to find weak spots in systems before criminals do. That can be breaking into web apps, testing networks or creating and sending out phishing emails to see who clicks. If you enjoy creative problem-solving, scripting and the thrill of “getting in,” this could be your perfect path. Pentesters can work within an organization or as external consultants.

To get started, enroll in our Information Security Analyst program, where you'll build your core knowledge and prep for certifications like Security+, CND, and CEH, which are all great starting points for getting experience before becoming a pentester. From there, aim for an entry-level job such as IT support, SOC analyst (Tier 1), or junior security specialist. These roles will help you understand defensive tactics and system behaviors. Earning additional certification like CompTIA Pentest+ will also help boost your knowledge and experience at this stage. With some real-world experience and your certs in hand, you’ll be equipped to step into your first Penetration Testing role.

*According to Ziprecruiter.

4. Cyber Risk Analyst

• Median Salary: $112,000+*

• Certifications to Start: CompTIA Security+, CompTIA PenTest+, CompTIA CySA+

Cyber Risk Analysts are the strategic thinkers of the cybersecurity world. Instead of focusing solely on stopping threats in real time, they assess an organization’s overall security posture to identify long-term risks. That means evaluating policies, analyzing vulnerabilities, estimating the potential impact of different threats, and helping shape company-wide decisions about how to reduce risk. If you enjoy the intersection of technology, business, and planning, this role offers a rewarding blend of all three.

Our Cybersecurity Analyst program can be a great starting point for this path, as you’ll train for the Security+, PenTest+, and CySA+ certifications. Because this is a more advanced role, most Cyber Risk Analysts have 2–4 years of experience in roles like SOC analyst, security specialist, or IT auditor before moving up. A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, IT, or business can also be helpful, though it’s not always required.This is one of those roles that can really depend on the organization. With the right mix of certifications, hands-on experience, and critical thinking, there will be plenty of organizations ready to fight cyber risk with you at the helm.

Welcome to Your Launching Point

ACI Tech Academy specializes in helping our learners navigate one of the most confusing and competitive job markets in history. Our programs are built with support in mind, combining flexible learning, hands-on practice, industry-aligned certifications and personalized career guidance that doesn’t end when the training does.

From day one, you'll be supported by mentors and coaches who understand the path ahead. And when you're ready to take the leap into the workforce, our career services team is there to help you craft a standout resume, prep for interviews, and connect with employers who are actively hiring. Our programs go beyond just learning the know-how around certifications, helping you build confidence, make real progress and actually get hired.

Take the first step and contact one of our advisers. They can talk you through your learning and career goals and get you information on a program best fit for you.