Cyber threats are becoming increasingly severe due to the rise of sophisticated hackers, malware, system vulnerabilities, and the explosion of unsecured IoT devices. As a result, cybersecurity jobs are in high demand, with many organizations lacking skilled professionals while cybercriminals leverage AI and advanced attack techniques.
The reliance on cloud computing and remote work further amplifies security risks. Cyberattacks target personal data, businesses, and critical infrastructure, causing financial and reputational damage, thereby increasing the demand for cybersecurity professionals worldwide.
As cyber threats grow more complex with severe consequences, businesses are compelled to invest heavily in security, further driving the demand for highly skilled cybersecurity personnel.
3.5 million cybersecurity jobs remain unfilled
According to Cybersecurity Ventures, unfilled cybersecurity jobs have surged from 1 million in 2013 to 3.5 million in 2021. Since 2022, this number has remained steady and is expected to persist at least until 2025. In the U.S. alone, there are over 750,000 vacant positions.
While major tech firms such as Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and Google are cutting jobs—Layoffs.fyi reports that more than 470 companies have laid off employees—cybersecurity remains a high-demand industry. Steve Morgan, founder of Cybersecurity Ventures, describes it as “a land of opportunity” with an unemployment rate close to zero.
Due to the shortage of professionals, IT teams are taking on additional security responsibilities, such as identifying threats like phishing, social engineering attacks, financial fraud, and protecting applications, data, devices, and infrastructure. Today, every IT role intersects with cybersecurity, creating significant opportunities for those transitioning from other tech fields.
8 most in-demand cybersecurity jobs for 2025
The 2024 Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report by Fortinet highlights that 54% of organizations struggle to hire cybersecurity professionals, and 50% face challenges in retaining them. This talent gap presents a lucrative opportunity for skilled and certified professionals. Below are the top eight cybersecurity roles in demand for 2025, along with their average salaries.
1. Cybersecurity Engineer
- Average Salary: $102,432
- Role: Develop and safeguard information systems from attacks.
- Requirements: Knowledge of encryption, network security, and access management.
2. Cybersecurity Analyst (Infosec Analyst)
- Average Salary: $81,680
- Role: Monitor, analyze, and enhance cybersecurity measures.
- Requirements: Network management skills, penetration testing, and data encryption expertise.
3. Network Security Architect
- Average Salary: $126,166
- Role: Design robust security systems and oversee risk management.
- Requirements: Understanding of TCP/IP, access management, and data encryption.
4. Security Software Developer
- Average Salary: $75,776
- Role: Write secure code and integrate security from the development stage.
- Requirements: Secure coding, security testing, and project management skills.
5. Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
- Average Salary: $98,056
- Role: Conduct ethical hacking to identify security weaknesses.
- Requirements: Knowledge of OWASP Top 10, Python, Golang, Bash, PowerShell.
6. Application Security Engineer
- Average Salary: $143,062
- Role: Ensure software security throughout its development lifecycle.
- Requirements: Coding experience, application security testing, and understanding of SDLC.
7. Malware Analyst
- Average Salary: $143,800
- Role: Analyze malicious code and prevent emerging cyber threats.
- Requirements: Proficiency in C/C++, Python, and Windows API analysis.
8. Computer Forensics Analyst
- Average Salary: $78,753
- Role: Investigate cyberattacks and collect digital evidence.
- Requirements: Expertise in digital forensics, malware analysis, and cybersecurity laws.
Final thoughts
The demand for cybersecurity professionals is soaring, offering lucrative career opportunities with competitive salaries. If you have the right skills and certifications, now is the perfect time to enter this thriving field. Start your journey today by taking a course in cybersecurity: Cybersecurity Courses.
