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Information Security Analysts

Information Security Analysts

Overview
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Examples

Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, chemists, art directors, and cost estimators.

Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

Salary Salary

Salary at 10th Percentile: $60K
Salary at 25th Percentile: $78K
Median Salary: $103K
Salary at 75th Percentile: $132K
Salary at 90th Percentile: $163K

Demand
Career Demand by State Career Demand by State Legend
Core Tasks

Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.

Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.

Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.

Perform risk assessments and execute tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures.

Modify computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status.

Maintain permanent fleet cryptologic and carry-on direct support systems required in special land, sea surface and subsurface operations.

Review violations of computer security procedures and discuss procedures with violators to ensure violations are not repeated.

Confer with users to discuss issues such as computer data access needs, security violations, and programming changes.

Document computer security and emergency measures policies, procedures, and tests.

Coordinate implementation of computer system plan with establishment personnel and outside vendors.

Monitor use of data files and regulate access to safeguard information in computer files.

Train users and promote security awareness to ensure system security and to improve server and network efficiency.

Technology Skills
Technology
Example
Hot Technology
Access software
Citrix
Administration software
Cisco Systems CiscoWorks
Analytical or scientific software
The MathWorks MATLAB
Application server software
Red Hat WildFly
Authentication server software
Remote authentication dial-in user service RADIUS software
Backup or archival software
Veritas NetBackup
Business intelligence and data analysis software
Tableau
Communications server software
IBM Domino
Configuration management software
VMWare
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA
Customer relationship management CRM software
Salesforce
Data base management system software
Teradata Database
Data base reporting software
SAP Crystal Reports
Data base user interface and query software
Structured query language SQL
Desktop communications software
Secure shell SSH software
Development environment software
Ruby
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Exchange
Enterprise application integration software
Oracle Fusion Middleware
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
SAP
Enterprise system management software
Splunk Enterprise
Expert system software
Ansible software
File versioning software
Git
Filesystem software
Computer forensic software
Financial analysis software
Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Graphics or photo imaging software
Microsoft Visio
Human resources software
Human resource management software HRMS
Industrial control software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Information retrieval or search software
LexisNexis
Instant messaging software
Blink
Internet directory services software
Network directory services software
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Voice over internet protocol VoiP system software
License management software
License management software
Map creation software
Geographic information system GIS software
Medical software
Epic Systems
Network monitoring software
Wireshark
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Virtual private networking VPN software
Network security or virtual private network VPN management software
Websense Data Loss Prevention
Object or component oriented development software
Swift
Object oriented data base management software
PostgreSQL
Office suite software
Microsoft Office
Operating system software
UNIX Shell
Platform interconnectivity software
Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation
Point of sale POS software
Smart card management software
Portal server software
Apache HTTP Server
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Program testing software
System testing software
Project management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
Unified modeling language UML
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Storage networking software
Amazon Simple Storage Service S3
Transaction security and virus protection software
Symantec
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS
Web page creation and editing software
Google Sites
Web platform development software
Spring Framework
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Tools Used
Tool
Example
Computer Equipment and Accessories
Desktop computers
Measuring and observing and testing instruments
Network analyzers
Top 10 Knowledge Required
Computers and Electronics
87%
Importance

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

English Language
86%
Importance

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Administration and Management
74%
Importance

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Engineering and Technology
73%
Importance

Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Telecommunications
73%
Importance

Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

Customer and Personal Service
69%
Importance

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Public Safety and Security
66%
Importance

Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

Education and Training
64%
Importance

Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Mathematics
58%
Importance

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Communications and Media
56%
Importance

Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

Top 10 Skills
Reading Comprehension
80%
Importance

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking
78%
Importance

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening
75%
Importance

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Complex Problem Solving
75%
Importance

Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Speaking
73%
Importance

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Writing
70%
Importance

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Judgment and Decision Making
68%
Importance

Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Monitoring
68%
Importance

Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Systems Analysis
68%
Importance

Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Active Learning
65%
Importance

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Top 10 Abilities
Deductive Reasoning
80%
Importance

The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

Inductive Reasoning
80%
Importance

The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

Oral Comprehension
80%
Importance

The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Problem Sensitivity
80%
Importance

The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Written Comprehension
80%
Importance

The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Information Ordering
78%
Importance

The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

Written Expression
78%
Importance

The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

Near Vision
75%
Importance

The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Oral Expression
75%
Importance

The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

Category Flexibility
70%
Importance

The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

Top 10 Work Activities
Interacting With Computers
94%
Importance

Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Getting Information
90%
Importance

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
86%
Importance

Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
83%
Importance

Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Analyzing Data or Information
82%
Importance

Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Processing Information
82%
Importance

Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Documenting/Recording Information
81%
Importance

Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
81%
Importance

Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
80%
Importance

Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems
79%
Importance

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Detailed Work Activities

Train others in computer interface or software use.

Develop computer or information security policies or procedures.

Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.

Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.

Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.

Implement security measures for computer or information systems.

Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.

Monitor the security of digital information.

Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning.

Document operational procedures.

Work Context
Electronic Mail

How often do you use electronic mail in this job?

Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?

Telephone

How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?

Face-to-Face Discussions

How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?

Contact With Others

How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?

Work With Work Group or Team

How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?

Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?

Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?

Spend Time Sitting

How much does this job require sitting?

Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?

Education
Majors
Major
Computer and Information Sciences, General
Computer Science
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
Security Science and Technology
Health and Medical Administrative Services
Interests
Conventional
91%
Importance

Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.

Investigative
77%
Importance

Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.

Realistic
67%
Importance

Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.

Enterprising
34%
Importance

Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

Social
34%
Importance

Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Artistic
24%
Importance

Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.

Top 10 Work Styles
Attention to Detail
91%
Importance

Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

Dependability
91%
Importance

Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

Integrity
91%
Importance

Job requires being honest and ethical.

Analytical Thinking
89%
Importance

Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

Cooperation
86%
Importance

Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

Adaptability/Flexibility
85%
Importance

Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

Initiative
84%
Importance

Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

Persistence
81%
Importance

Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

Self Control
81%
Importance

Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.

Achievement/Effort
80%
Importance

Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.

Work Values
Working Conditions
81%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

Independence
77%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

Support
77%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

Achievement
67%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

Recognition
62%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Relationships
62%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.