Information Security Engineers
Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation. May oversee the assessment of information security systems.
Information Security Engineers develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. The role reports a median annual salary of $108,970 in the US with the middle 80% earning between $54,360 and $162,440 and is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Entry typically requires a Bachelor's degree, and shows high AI exposure (0.81 on a 0-1 scale) — significant portions of core tasks are already being automated. The most in-demand skills for the role include Critical Thinking, Active Learning, Complex Problem Solving, Programming, Systems Analysis.
Salary distribution (US)
Real salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The p10–p90 spread tells you more than the median alone.
Top skills
Knowledge you'll build
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Engineering and Technology
- Design
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Education and Training
Frequently asked questions
What does Information Security Engineers do?
Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation.
How much does Information Security Engineers earn?
The median annual salary for Information Security Engineers in the US is $108,970. The middle 80% of workers earn between $54,360 and $162,440 annually. Entry-to-mid-career earners typically fall between $74,960 and $130,090.
What is the job outlook for Information Security Engineers?
The role is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Current US employment is approximately 472,000 workers.
How do I become information security engineers?
The typical entry education is a Bachelor's degree. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.
What skills does Information Security Engineers need?
The most in-demand skills for this role include Critical Thinking, Active Learning, Complex Problem Solving, Programming, Systems Analysis, Reading Comprehension. These are the skills O*NET identifies as most important for competent performance.
Will AI replace Information Security Engineers?
Our AI-durability model gives Information Security Engineers a score of 0.81 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at high AI risk — many core tasks are already being automated by generative AI and workflow tools. Focus on AI-adjacent skills or plan a pivot to an AI-durable adjacent role.
How hard is it to enter this field?
Information Security Engineers has moderate barrier to entry — moderately gated — a bachelor's degree or equivalent training is typically required.
Is Information Security Engineers right for you?
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