Is Cyber Security a Good career? Exploring the Future of the Industry | EP 9

Is a Career in Cybersecurity Still Worth It? A Comprehensive Guide

In this episode of 'Cybersecurity Diaries,' Nathan from StationX explores the evolving landscape of cybersecurity careers. He evaluates ten crucial factors to consider, such as salary, job satisfaction, work-life balance, and industry demand. With insights into future trends and practical guidance for breaking into the field, this episode provides valuable perspectives for those contemplating a cybersecurity career.

00:00 Introduction: Is Cybersecurity Still Worth It?
01:29 Exploring Salary and Financial Stability
03:35 Work-Life Balance and Flexibility
05:21 Job Satisfaction and Personal Fulfillment
07:09 Career Growth and Learning Opportunities
08:17 Burnout and Stress Levels
09:39 Ease of Entry and Accessibility
14:31 Job Security and Demand
16:16 Work Environment and Culture
19:11 Industry Versatility and Geographic Mobility
21:56 Meaningful Impact and Societal Contribution
23:05 Conclusion: Is Cybersecurity a Good Career Choice?

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Transcript

Today I’ll be answering one crucial question: Is it still worth pursuing a career in cyber security today and in the years ahead?

Cyber security is one of the most dynamic fields in tech, constantly evolving in response to new technologies and increasingly sophisticated threats. With advancements in artificial intelligence, automation, and cloud computing, the landscape is shifting. But does this mean cyber security remains a valuable and sustainable career choice for your future?

Hi, I’m Nathan from StationX. We’re a community of cyber security experts and learners, offering training, mentorship, and resources to help you build your cyber security skills and advance your career. This is Cyber Security Diaries.

In today’s episode, we’re going to examine 10 of the most important criteria for professionals—and yourself—to consider when choosing a career in cyber security. We’ll rate each category out of 10, looking at areas such as salary, work-life balance, job satisfaction, and more to help determine whether cyber security is the right path for you.

And here’s why you want to stay to the end. After we’ve broken down each category, we’ll draw an overall conclusion that ties it all together. So, if you’re trying to decide whether a career in cyber security is worth your time and effort, you won’t want to miss this insight I’m about to provide—especially as we predict where the field is heading in the near future. Stick around; it could be the guidance you need to make one of the most important decisions of your career.

Alright then, let’s start with number one: Salary and Financial Stability.

Cyber security remains one of the highest-paying fields in the tech industry, as most people know, offering a strong level of financial stability at all levels of experience. Based on current data, beginners in roles such as cyber security analyst can expect to start at around $80,000 USD annually, while more advanced professionals can earn upwards of $113,000 per year. Cyber security consultants also see a significant rise in compensation as they gain experience, with salaries ranging from $94,000 for beginners to $152,000 for advanced professionals.

Penetration testers, who are in demand, start at approximately $101,000 and can expect to reach up to $144,000 on average at advanced levels—but I’ve seen much higher. It really just depends on where you’re working. Meanwhile, incident and intrusion analysts begin around $85,000 but can earn as much as $114,000 with experience on average.

At the highest levels, Chief Information Security Officers, or CISOs, command the top salaries, beginning around $256,000 for those with significant experience, and reaching up to $290,000 for the most advanced professionals. These numbers highlight the financial rewards available in cyber security, especially for those willing to invest in their development and gain advanced experience. These salary figures are based on the United States, but similar rates apply globally, adjusted for the cost of living and income levels in your country.

Given the ongoing demand for cyber security talent and the increasing complexity of digital threats, the upward salary trajectory across all roles indicates strong financial stability, making this field highly attractive for individuals looking for long-term earning potential. So for salary and financial stability, I give cyber security jobs a rating of 9 out of 10.

Number two: Work-Life Balance and Flexibility.

For entry-level and junior roles in cyber security, work-life balance and flexibility are generally attainable, particularly as many organizations have adopted remote and hybrid work models. Roles such as cyber security analyst, penetration testers, and cloud security can often be performed remotely, allowing new professionals to benefit from flexible schedules while gaining valuable experience. However, it’s important to recognize that incident response operations, for example, can sometimes require immediate action and may involve being on call, especially during high-profile security incidents.

While many entry-level positions will not face the same intensity as senior roles, occasional periods of stress are still possible due to the nature of cyber threats. Compliance and audit roles, which are also suitable for junior professionals, tend to offer more stable work hours. These roles involve ensuring that security policies align with regulations and managing audits, which are generally less reactive compared to incident-driven or operational tasks. As a result, they tend to offer a more consistent work-life balance. Governance and leadership roles tend to come with more responsibility and pressure—but also higher salaries, of course.

Most junior roles in cyber security offer a good degree of flexibility, making the field appealing to newcomers looking for both career growth and personal time. So, based on my 30 years of experience, I rate work-life balance and flexibility a 7.5 out of 10.

Number three: Job Satisfaction and Personal Fulfillment.

Many people are drawn to cyber security because it taps into a deep curiosity about hacking and security technology, often fueled by pop culture and movies that portray hacking and cyber security as exciting and intellectually challenging. This fascination leads to a real sense of purpose and enjoyment when professionals protect data and systems from threats. Many aspiring and current professionals spend their spare time experimenting with technology tools and hacking around in cyber security simply because they enjoy it. This passion can translate into success when you’re working on a job that you truly love.

The ability to actively prevent breaches, learn how systems get hacked, hack into systems, and stop cyber criminals gives many a rewarding sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. For those who love to tinker with systems and solve problems, the field remains consistently engaging. Cyber security is fast-paced, and the constant evolution of threats ensures that the work stays stimulating and varied. While the high stakes and demand for vigilance can be stressful, the thrill of outsmarting attackers and working on cutting-edge technology—like AI and cloud computing—often outweighs the challenges. It’s a field that not only aligns with personal interests but also offers continuous intellectual satisfaction and purpose.

For these reasons, I rate job satisfaction and personal fulfillment a 9 out of 10, for those with a passion and interest in cyber security.

Number four: Career Growth and Learning Opportunities.

One of the most appealing aspects of cyber security is the constant need for growth and learning. The rapid evolution of AI, cloud technologies, automation, and other tech ensures that cyber security professionals will need to continually upskill and stay ahead of threats. Certifications like CISSP, CISM, and many others will remain highly relevant, while new certifications will emerge to cover areas like AI security and other evolving technologies.

As more organizations move to cloud and integrate AI into their systems, IoT, and other technologies, the opportunities for specialization and advancement in cyber security will only expand. For those who enjoy dynamic careers with constant opportunities for learning and development, cyber security remains a top field. I give career growth and learning opportunities a rating of 9 out of 10, for those who love to keep learning and stay at the cutting edge of technology while getting paid to do it.

Number five: Burnout and Stress Levels.

Burnout and stress are realities for many in cyber security, especially in roles that involve incident response or SOC monitoring. These positions often require quick responses to active threats, leading to sometimes long hours and high-pressure environments. As AI-driven attacks and automated cyber threats become more common, professionals in these roles may face even greater stress. However, incidents do not happen all the time—they are rarer occurrences.

Advancements in AI and automation are also helping to alleviate some of the burden. Automation will start to handle more repetitive tasks like patch management and threat detection, freeing up professionals to focus on more strategic efforts. Despite these improvements, burnout remains a concern for some. Like in most careers, as you move into more senior roles, you’ll find yourself handling more people, with higher stakes, and working closely with executives. Naturally, this often comes with increased stress.

So, I give burnout and stress levels a rating of 6.5 out of 10 for cyber security roles.

Number six: Ease of Entry and Accessibility.

Breaking into cyber security has become more accessible over the years, thanks to the wealth of certifications and training programs available to aspiring professionals, such as those offered by StationX. However, while it’s certainly not as difficult as becoming a movie star or a Premiership footballer, it’s not without its challenges. For those starting from scratch, the path can be daunting. Even those transitioning from an IT or technical background face significant hurdles, as cyber security requires a specialized set of skills.

One of the main reasons people fail to enter cyber security is not the complexity of the field, but rather a lack of perseverance—many give up too early. It’s like trying to stick to a fitness routine, lose weight, or quit smoking. The challenge lies in maintaining consistency and pushing through the obstacles. Those who stick with it often find themselves doing well, but then face different challenges as they progress.

Cyber security isn’t a one-size-fits-all field. There are over 40 different roles, each with unique skill and certification requirements. Without proper guidance, this can feel overwhelming. At StationX, we recognized this challenge early on and developed what we call our Fast Track Framework to simplify the process. Based on our experience, there are three key elements that massively increase your chances of success in getting into cyber security.

The secret sauce is to:

1. Establish a strong support network.

2. Map out your path to success, specific to the role you are aiming for.

3. Master the skills to stand out.

First is establishing a strong support network. The most statistically important factor for success is having the right people around you. Joining a cyber security mastermind group can provide accountability and motivation. Working with a mentor helps you grow both personally and professionally. Additionally, one of the best ways to reinforce your learning is to teach others. This not only solidifies your knowledge but also helps build your reputation in the community.

Next, map out your path to success. Success in cyber security means something different for everyone. Whether you want to be a penetration tester or a SOC analyst, your journey will be unique and different in each case. Clearly defining your long-term goals and mid-term goals, and creating a system for success based on those goals, is essential. We’ve found that poor systems are one of the biggest reasons people fail to break into cyber security—they don’t have a clear plan.

Finally, master the skills to stand out. It’s not enough to simply acquire general cyber security skills; you need to target the technical certifications and skills specific to your desired roles. Soft skills are equally important. Many candidates miss out on opportunities due to a lack of communication and team-working abilities. A mentor and a support network can help improve this. Additionally, getting real-world experience through internships or practical training will help position you as a standout candidate.

For this reason, I rate ease of entry and accessibility as 7.5 out of 10. While it comes with its challenges, with the right guidance and perseverance, a career in cyber security is within reach for many. After all, millions of people work in this field, proving that success is not only possible but entirely achievable.

Number seven: Job Security and Demand.

Job security in cyber security is unparalleled. As AI, automation, IoT, and other tech become integral to business operations, the demand for skilled professionals to protect increasingly complex systems continues to grow. As technology advances, so does the demand for cyber security. The rapid adoption of cloud computing, AI, and digital transformations across industries guarantees cyber security will remain one of the most secure and in-demand career paths.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in information security or cyber security is projected to grow 35% from 2021 to 2031—much faster than the average for all other occupations. This significant growth is driven by the ongoing rise of cyber threats and the need for organizations to safeguard their digital infrastructure. The persistent nature of these threats means that cyber security professionals will continue to be crucial to every industry, making this field one of the safest and most future-proof careers available.

For this reason, I give job security and demand a rating of 9 out of 10.

Number eight: Work Environment and Culture.

The work environment in cyber security varies by company size and industry. Large enterprises tend to have more structured environments, while startups and smaller organizations may require greater adaptability. The rise of remote work has made the field more flexible, but certain roles—particularly those involving operations and incident response—may still require long hours and high alertness during a crisis.

The collaborative nature of cyber security ensures that professionals often work in teams to solve problems, share knowledge, and stay ahead of emerging threats. However, remote work can introduce a sense of isolation, making it important for organizations to maintain a strong culture of communication and teamwork.

Cyber security is more than just a career; it’s a passion for many professionals who are deeply invested in the field. This shared enthusiasm creates a strong and vibrant community, where professionals connect, collaborate, and continuously learn from each other. Many individuals are drawn to cyber security because they love the challenge, the thrill of problem-solving, and the satisfaction of protecting systems and data from threats.

Because of this collective passion, the cyber security community has fostered a rich culture that includes numerous meetups, conferences, and associations. These events are opportunities for like-minded individuals to gather, exchange knowledge, and build relationships. While the cyber security landscape has grown significantly, and perhaps isn’t as tightly knit as it once was, it still retains its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned veteran, the community is open to helping others grow, learn, and succeed.

I give work environment and culture a rating of 8 out of 10.

Number nine: Industry Versatility and Geographic Mobility.

Cyber security remains highly versatile across industries, with every sector—from finance to healthcare to government—requiring robust security measures. This versatility allows professionals to switch industries quite easily without losing relevance. Cloud security and AI security are becoming more crucial as businesses continue to migrate to the cloud and adopt AI technologies.

The field also offers significant geographic mobility. Remote work has become standard for many roles, allowing professionals to work for organizations located anywhere in the world. However, there are some geographical limitations to consider. Most cyber security roles are concentrated in mid-to-enterprise size organizations—companies with the resources to invest in dedicated security teams. This often means that job opportunities are more plentiful in major cities or regions with a high density of large corporations.

Smaller towns or rural areas may not have the types of companies that can afford to maintain specialized security staff, limiting job prospects in those areas. Unlike general IT roles, which are required in almost every organization, cyber security positions are more niche. Not every company needs a full-time security professional, which can result in fewer openings compared to broader IT roles. This makes it more likely that you’ll need to seek employment in larger urban centers or industries like finance, healthcare, and tech, where the need for security is greater.

While remote work is becoming more common in cyber security, securing your first job in the field as a fully remote worker can be challenging. Many employers prefer entry-level hires to work on-site initially to gain hands-on experience, collaborate closely with senior staff, and develop a deeper understanding of the company’s security protocols and practices. So, relocating might be necessary for those entering the field, though remote opportunities may become more viable as you gain experience.

For these reasons, I rate industry versatility and geographic mobility an 8 out of 10.

Number ten: Meaningful Impact and Societal Contribution.

Cyber security professionals have a direct impact on society by protecting organizations, critical infrastructure, sensitive personal data, and even national security. As more aspects of daily life become digitized, cyber security will play an increasingly crucial role in maintaining the integrity and safety of those systems and, ultimately, our lives. AI-driven threats and the rise of smart cities will heighten the stakes, giving cyber security professionals even greater responsibilities in protecting public safety.

The sense of purpose that comes with protecting these vital systems from attacks is a strong motivator for many, making cyber security a fulfilling career for those who want to make a tangible difference in the world.

For meaningful impact and societal contribution, I give cyber security a rating of 9 out of 10.

These are my closing conclusions on whether cyber security is worth it:

In terms of overall rating, cyber security works out to an 8.25 out of 10. As we look ahead, cyber security continues to be a highly valuable and rewarding career, with an overall rating of 8.25 out of 10. The integration of AI, cloud computing, IoT, automation, and new regulations will continue to drive the demand for skilled professionals, ensuring job security and financial stability. While the field comes with challenges, such as stress and the need for continuous learning, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks for many.

For those passionate about protecting organizations and individuals from evolving threats, and for those seeking a career with purpose, growth opportunities, and high earning potential, cyber security remains one of the best options in the tech industry. Whether you’re entering the field for the first time or transitioning from another career, the future of cyber security is bright and full of opportunities.

Be sure to check out the show notes for more information on cyber security careers, transitioning into the field, and growing an existing career. If you’re ready to start and grow your career in cyber security, I invite you to join us at stationx.net. Become part of our thriving community, where you’ll find the training, mentorship, and support you need to succeed.

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