Cyberattacks today are the digital world’s equivalent of a bad cold: unpredictable, constantly evolving, and sure to strike when you least expect it. Data theft, espionage, sabotage, and ransomware are no longer just Hollywood tropes—they’ve become everyday threats affecting every industry. In this wild west landscape, the demand for cybersecurity warriors is exploding. If you’re eyeing a future-proof career or simply want to know who will be saving the digital day in the coming years, here’s your roadmap.
The Pentester: The Ethical Hacker’s Playground
- Pentesters, or penetration testers, are the professional “bad guys”—except they work for the good team.
- Their job? Simulate cyberattacks to test and expose vulnerabilities lurking within IT systems.
- Once they discover weaknesses, they whip up battle plans to patch those cracks before any real villain comes knocking.
Skills & Training:
- Deep technical expertise is non-negotiable: operating systems, programming languages, vulnerability analysis tools, and all those juicy security protocols.
- A background in IT or network security helps, as do certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP).
Soft Skills & Salary: This role needs sharp analytical skills, curiosity, nimble thinking, and a hawk’s eye for detail. Depending on one’s experience and credentials, annual salaries typically range from 50,000 to 100,000 euros. Not bad for legally “breaking in” everywhere!
The Information Systems Security Manager (RSSI): The Company’s Digital Shield
- The RSSI is the unsung hero who ensures a company’s data and IT systems are secure—think of them as the castle’s chief of defense.
- They spot emerging risks, create strategies to manage and dodge them, and make sure everyone (yes, everyone) follows security rules.
Skills & Training:
- Tech savvy in information systems, IT standards, security protocols, vulnerability analysis tools, operating systems, and programming languages is a must.
- Prior experience in IT, networking, or security is highly recommended, as is certification such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Soft Skills & Salary: Creativity, nerves of steel (or at least a decent tolerance for stress), diplomacy, and the ability to interact at all organizational levels are key. Average annual salaries? Between 70,000 and 150,000 euros, depending on expertise and certifications.
Cryptology Specialist: Guards of the Code
- These are the secret keepers, crafting and implementing encryption systems to shield data from prying eyes.
- They also crack codes in the battle against digital crime, working on decryption systems.
Skills & Training:
- In-depth understanding of cryptography, experience building crypto software, and a solid base in math and computer science are essential.
- Professional certifications like CISM and CISSP are recognized assets.
Soft Skills & Salary: Analytical smarts, a penchant for problem-solving, and a serious attention to detail matter—plus, collaboration and communication. Starting specialists can expect 40,000 to 60,000 euros per year, while seasoned experts can reach 100,000 euros or more.
Legal Eagle of Cyberspace: The Cybersecurity Lawyer
- Every digital battlefield needs a sharp legal mind—or several. Cybersecurity lawyers create company cybersecurity policies, handle regulatory compliance, and defend organizations embroiled in cyber-related lawsuits.
Skills & Training:
- Command of laws and regulations around IT security, experience drafting security policies, and grappling with legal issues are all vital.
- Formal legal training is necessary, and specializing in IT security law is highly recommended.
Soft Skills & Salary: Strong analysis, top-notch writing and presenting, and the ability to collaborate and communicate clearly within teams are required. Newcomers can expect between 40,000 and 60,000 euros, with experienced attorneys scaling up to 120,000 euros depending on seniority, company size, and sector.
Industrial Cybersecurity Expert: Protecting Critical Infrastructure
- This role is the bodyguard of vital infrastructure—think energy, manufacturing, and more. These experts specialize in securing industrial control systems (ICS) that underpin essential services and manufacturing.
- They work to prevent catastrophic attacks that could disrupt both safety and production.
Skills & Training:
- Dive-deep knowledge of ICS, hands-on experience with system design, deployment, and management, and firm grasp of industrial protocols like Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, and DNP3 are crucial.
- Degrees in computer science or electrical engineering are needed, with credentials like Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP) standing out.
Soft Skills & Salary: Adaptability, teamwork, smooth communication (even with very different technical backgrounds), quick problem-solving, and timely decision-making are indispensable. Entry-level specialists earn between 50,000 and 70,000 euros, while experts can command up to 100,000 euros.
Final Byte: Why these Roles Matter
Cyberthreats aren’t going anywhere—they’re only getting more devious. As organizations scramble to defend their digital treasures, these five cybersecurity careers are not just in demand: they’re essential for survival. Whether your talent is codebreaking, legal wrangling, or holding the digital fort, there’s a place for you on the cyber frontlines (cape optional, coffee recommended).
