Top Cybersecurity Employers in Chicago: Who's Hiring and What They Look For

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 22nd 2024

Top cybersecurity employers in Chicago and what they seek - Illinois, US

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Chicago's booming cybersecurity job market in 2024 boasts over 36,000 open positions in Illinois. Key employers like Trustwave and Keeper Security seek skills in ethical hacking, cloud security, and incident response. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ enhance prospects. Networking, tailored applications, and active participation in cyber events are essential for landing top roles.

Chicago's cybersecurity scene is on fire in 2024, and it's the place to be if you're into protecting digital goodies from bad peeps. With so many huge corps like banking and finance giants planted here, keeping their data locked down is a major priority.

CyberSeek says Illinois has over 36,000 open cybersecurity gigs, and a ton of those are right here in the Windy City. Chicago's got a crazy mix of industries that need solid cyber defenses, from financial firms to healthcare empires and up-and-coming tech startups.

As Michael Anderson from Keeper Security put it, "Chicago's a key cybersecurity hub cuz it's home to major players across multiple sectors that hackers just love to mess with." With so many career options and that diverse economic vibe, Chicago attracts top cyber talent from all over.

And Nucamp's got the inside scoop on scoring the skills and certs you need to snag one of those sweet cybersecurity roles.

Table of Contents

  • Top Cybersecurity Companies Hiring in Chicago
  • Skills and Qualifications Sought by Chicago Cybersecurity Employers
  • Where to Find Cybersecurity Job Listings in Chicago
  • Tips for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals in Chicago
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Top Cybersecurity Companies Hiring in Chicago

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Chicago is home to major players setting up shop in the city when it comes to the cybersecurity field. Check out these top cybersecurity companies that are hiring and what makes them notable:

First up, there's Trustwave, a cybersecurity powerhouse that has been around since the 90s.

With their global HQ right here in Chicago, they offer everything from threat detection to incident response and compliance services. Trustwave has an impressive client list across finance, healthcare, retail, and more.

Then there's Keeper Security, the company behind the popular Keeper Password Manager.

Based in Chicago, their password management and secure file storage solutions are used by businesses and individuals worldwide for top-notch protection.

Another notable company is Coro, a cutting-edge SaaS security firm focused on data breach protection.

This innovative company's Chicago roots run deep.

Network Perception is another Chicago-based cybersecurity company making waves with their critical network and cyber resiliency solutions.

They are focused on protecting organizations from significant cyber threats.

For those interested in cybersecurity consulting, companies like EMPIST, Framework IT, Realnets, and Andromeda Technology Solutions are worth exploring.

These cybersecurity consulting firms are prominent in Chicago.

What makes these companies notable? They are constantly pushing the envelope with cutting-edge tech, have expertise in their respective fields, and can attract top talent from Chicago's universities and booming tech scene.

With cyber threats becoming increasingly complex, these companies are well-positioned to take them on and keep businesses secure.

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Skills and Qualifications Sought by Chicago Cybersecurity Employers

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The cybersecurity game in Chi-Town is getting fierce, and employers are on the hunt for some serious talent. According to the latest research, the hottest skills companies are looking for are technical know-how, vulnerability assessment, and analysis chops.

These cybersecurity ninjas need to be able to sniff out threats and weaknesses like nobody's business. It's not just about having a fancy certification, although certs like CISSP, CEH, and CCSP can definitely give you an edge.

Employers want to see you can actually walk the walk when it comes to ethical hacking, cloud security, and incident response.

But here's the real deal: in this ever-changing cybersecurity landscape, you gotta keep leveling up your skills.

Continuous learning is key, whether it's through online courses, conferences, or hands-on training.

The cybersecurity pros in Chicago who stay on top of their game are the ones employers can't get enough of. So, if you wanna make it big in the Windy City's cybersecurity scene, better be ready to put in the work and keep those skills sharp as a tack.

Where to Find Cybersecurity Job Listings in Chicago

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Chicagoans on the hunt for a cybersecurity gig, check this out! Don't just rely on the usual job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor - they're cool but there's way more out there.

Sites like ZipRecruiter and CyberSeek are totally geared towards cybersecurity roles, so you can zero in on the good stuff.

There's more! Local sites like the Illinois Technology Association and Cyber Hire Network are dedicated to hooking you up with the hottest cybersecurity jobs in the Chi-Town area.

Plus, they've got the inside scoop on the industry, so you can stay ahead of the game.

Don't sleep on those networking events and job fairs either! The CyberSecurity Chicago Conference in March 2024 is gonna be lit, with keynote speakers, workshops, and a career fair where you can mingle with potential employers.

And don't forget about the Chicago Cybersecurity Meetup Group and the ChicagoLand Cyber Security Professionals LinkedIn group - they're always hosting dope events and sharing job postings.

You gotta do your part too! Make sure your LinkedIn profile and resume are on point, showcasing your cybersecurity skills and certs.

And when you apply for jobs, don't just copy and paste the same old thing - tailor that cover letter and resume to each gig, showing how you're the perfect fit.

Oh, and network like crazy! Attend those events, join those orgs, and connect with industry peeps - that's how you'll uncover those hidden job opportunities.

Stay hungry and keep grinding, Chi-Town! Keep your skills sharp and earn those cybersecurity certs, and you'll be landing that dream job in no time.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Tips for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals in Chicago

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The cybersecurity game in Chicago is straight fire, and if you're looking to get in on the action, you gotta be prepared to hustle. First things first, get those certs that show you mean business.

CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and GSEC are like golden tickets, proving you know your stuff. But don't stop there. Join the cybersecurity community, get active on LinkedIn, and start networking like a boss.

These peeps can help you level up and land that dream gig.

Now, let's talk skills. Hands-on experience is key, so get involved in bug bounty programs, CTF competitions, or open-source projects to flex those hacking muscles.

And don't sleep on your resume game. Tailor that bad boy to highlight your cybersecurity education, projects, and any relevant internships.

Employers in Chi-Town dig transferable skills like problem-solving and critical thinking, so make sure to showcase those too.

Check out these Nucamp articles for the inside scoop on the cybersecurity job market in Chicago, essential skills and certs, and in-demand entry-level roles.

Knowledge is power, and these articles will give you a serious edge.

Remember, breaking into cybersecurity is no cakewalk, but with dedication, continuous learning, and a killer attitude, you'll be unstoppable.

So, get out there, network like a boss, and show Chicago what you're made of!

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the top cybersecurity companies hiring in Chicago?

Some major cybersecurity employers in Chicago include Trustwave, Keeper Security, cutting-edge SaaS security firms, Network Perception, and consulting firms like EMPIST, Framework IT, Realnets, and Andromeda Technology Solutions. These companies are known for their expertise and innovative solutions in various sectors.

What skills and qualifications do Chicago cybersecurity employers seek?

Employers in Chicago look for technical know-how, vulnerability assessment, and analysis abilities. Skills in ethical hacking, cloud security, and incident response are crucial. Continuous learning and staying updated with certifications can give you an edge.

Where can I find cybersecurity job listings in Chicago?

Besides common job sites, utilize specialized platforms geared towards cybersecurity roles. Local websites dedicated to the Chicago area also offer the latest job posts. Networking events and job fairs, such as industry gatherings in March 2024, provide invaluable opportunities to engage with potential employers.

What tips are there for aspiring cybersecurity professionals in Chicago?

Earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or GSEC is important. Actively participate on LinkedIn to build a network. Gain hands-on experience through bug bounty programs or open-source projects. Tailor your resume to showcase problem-solving skills and critical thinking, which are highly valued.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.