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

Orlando's ascent as a key player in the cybersecurity arena mirrors a surging global emphasis on digital security.

Amidst Orlando's diverse industries, from defense to tourism, there's an increasing imperative for potent cybersecurity safeguards. Reflecting this urgency, the Orlando Cybersecurity Talent Deep Dive reveals a significant shortage of skilled professionals ready to shield the digital assets of the region's flourishing tech sector.

Statistics show that from 2016 to 2021, cybersecurity roles in Florida surged by 36%, while Orlando continues to strengthen its cybersecurity fortifications as host to the National Center for Simulation.

Notably, evolving cyber threats levy a constant reminder of the necessity for adept cybersecurity practitioners. To meet this need, comprehensive cybersecurity educational and training avenues, such as those offered by Nucamp and the region's higher education institutions, become indispensable in preparing individuals to join the ranks of cybersecurity defense.

In reviewing Orlando's cybersecurity employment scene, we delve into the pioneering organizations spearheading this growth, the sought-after competencies they demand, and the bright career horizons awaiting burgeoning cybersecurity talent.

• Cybersecurity Market Upturn: A remarkable 36% jump in cybersecurity positions in Florida from 2016 to 2021.
• Cybersecurity Strategic Center: Orlando hosts the National Center for Simulation, central to cybersecurity advancements.
• Fortifying Digital Terrain: Escalating cyber threats propel the need for specialized cybersecurity expertise.

The subsequent segments will flesh out Orlando's cybersecurity job milieu, spotlighting industry leaders fostering progress, indispensable skills for employment, and the rich opportunities for those aiming to penetrate this critical sector.

Orlando's tech sector is rapidly expanding, with a concentrated need for cybersecurity professionals highlighted by an outstanding number of openings in this crucial field.

The Cybersecurity Supply and Demand Heat Map indicates a national supply/demand ratio of 72%, revealing that only 72% of cybersecurity positions can be filled with the current workforce, underlining the sizable opportunities within Orlando’s job market.

Companies like Lockheed Martin are aggressively recruiting, seeking various cybersecurity roles such as Cyber Architect and Cyber Test Exploitation, to secure sensitive defense technologies.

The employment landscape showcases a variety of sectors:

• Lockheed Martin – Positions range from Systems Engineer Lead to Cyber Test Exploitation.
• AECOM – Vacancies for Cyber Defense Analysts and Network Security Pros.
• Universal Orlando Resort – Opportunities for IT Security Specialists to Security Architects.

Orlando's commitment to fostering a strong tech community is further evidenced by organizations like the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency, which offer a breadth of cybersecurity positions—from law enforcement to federal protective service roles—and highlight the industry’s intersection with public service.

Additionally, Orlando health institutions, reflecting on their current cybersecurity challenges, are on a hiring quest to strengthen their defenses.

Deloitte continues its active search for cybersecurity professionals to enhance their consulting services, emphasizing the importance of robust cyber defense.

In view of these trends, Orlando is undeniably establishing itself as a significant tech hub, with a dynamic array of cybersecurity job prospects across various industries.

For avid cybersecurity specialists, Orlando offers not just a thriving job market but also the chance to innovate alongside leading corporations in this high-stakes arena.

Orlando's cybersecurity industry continues to thrive, with an increasing demand for talent necessitated by the rise of remote work and the expanding digital footprint of companies across multiple sectors.

In this competitive job market, the desired skill set for cybersecurity professionals now goes beyond traditional technical competencies. As per the latest insights, expertise in intrusion detection, secure software development, and incident response management are highly prized, reflecting the dynamic threats that businesses face.

Employers in Orlando are scouring for applicants with practical skills in network security protocols and those who have cut their teeth in ethical hacking scenarios, linking back to valuable insights gained from hands-on cybersecurity training events like those offered by SANS in their annual Orlando conference.

Statistically, more than 70% of job adverts underscore the need for familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST, ISO/IEC 27001, and CIS Controls.

Additionally, the prominence of soft skills cannot be understated, with critical thinking and communication abilities being sought after in roughly 60% of roles, reflecting the significance of articulating complex security concepts effectively.

Industry certifications are more vital than ever for individuals aiming to distinguish themselves within the Orlando cybersecurity job market. Most employers are on the lookout for certified professionals, with certifications such as CISSP, CEH, and CompTIA Security+ highlighted in the majority of listings.

The following certifications are especially sought after by Orlando employers:

1. CISSP - Identify cybersecurity management skills.
2. CEH - Recognize expertise in ethical hacking techniques.
3. Security+ - Understand fundamental cybersecurity knowledge.
4. CISM - Demonstrate information security governance abilities.
5. GIAC - Certify specialized cybersecurity capabilities.

To meet the rapidly increasing local need, strategies such as registered apprenticeship programs have shown promise in recruiting and retaining capable cybersecurity talent, addressing the gap between demand and the supply of qualified candidates.

As one local hiring manager succinctly puts it:

"In the quest for safeguarding digital assets, we prioritize candidates who not only bring technical expertise and certifications to the table but also exhibit a robust problem-solving mindset and the ability to lead under pressure."

Thus, a mix of up-to-date technical skills, recognized certifications, and powerful interpersonal abilities remain the trifecta for success in securing a position in Orlando's burgeoning cybersecurity job market.

The job market for cybersecurity professionals in Orlando is not only surging but setting a precedent for growth nationally. A recent analysis by the University of Central Florida (UCF) underscores the city's burgeoning tech sector, highlighting a projected 26.8% growth in Orlando's tech industry jobs, significantly outpacing the average national growth rate estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) at 32% from 2022 to 2032 for information security analysts.

Orlando's vibrant academic landscape, spearheaded by institutions like UCF, fuels the tech ecosystem by churning out a high volume of STEM talent, further solidifying Orlando as an alluring hub for cybersecurity professionals.

• In Orlando, the demand for cybersecurity experts is amplifying, evidenced by an annual increase of 20% in job vacancies.
• A staggering 3,500 new cybersecurity positions are forecasted to emerge in Orlando within the next five years.
• The lucrative average salary for cybersecurity roles in Orlando is reported at $92,000, signifying the premium placed on skilled defenders of the digital domain.

With a Lockheed Martin partnership and an expansive Cyber Innovation Lab at UCF, Orlando is steered towards a dynamic future in cybersecurity.

Regional employment statistics amplify this narrative, revealing a 150% employment surge in Orlando's cybersecurity jobs over the past half-decade. The 2023 Cybersecurity Workforce Study intimates a looming global shortage of 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2025, auguring well for Orlando's cyber job seekers.

A leading workforce analyst remarked, "The future outlook of cybersecurity careers in Orlando is not just promising; it's gleaming with potential for those equipped with the right skills." Consequently, the cybersecurity job market in Orlando is poised for exponential growth, providing professionals various opportunities to contribute significantly to safeguarding the digital frontier.

Embarking on a career in cybersecurity in Orlando requires strategic preparation to ensure success in this thriving sector. As per CyberSeek, Florida has a supply/demand ratio of 2.0 for cybersecurity talent, indicating plentiful opportunities.

Education paths vary, from in-depth programs like the Master's in Cyber Security and Privacy at UCF, providing technical and interdisciplinary tracks, to practical bootcamps like Nucamp, where Cybersecurity Fundamentals courses align with market demands.

Labor market analytics from Emsi emphasize the employment edge provided by certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CISM, coveted by major employers like Lockheed Martin and Siemens.

For hands-on experience, crucial in this domain, consider internships, like the Secretary’s Honors Program Cyber Student Intern Program offered by DHS, or mentorship programs.

Evidence suggests hands-on training can increase job offers by 60%. Networking is equally vital; events like the Orlando Cybersecurity Conference and Central Florida ISSA meetups are key for industry connections.

Here’s a concise list of valuable resources:

• Certifications: the backbone of standardized industry knowledge; CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CISM are widely recognized.
• Education: the foundation of expertise; pursuing a Bachelor's degree or higher, as well as practical bootcamps like Nucamp.
• Networking: the gateway to opportunity; the Orlando Cybersecurity Conference and ISSA Central Florida meetups are invaluable.

Moreover, engaging with the local tech community through forums and online platforms is crucial for ongoing learning and staying current with industry developments.

A cybersecurity lead at an Orlando-based firm asserts,

"The real key to success in cybersecurity is continual learning; you cannot overvalue staying ahead of the curve through education and networking."

Thus, whether you're entering the cybersecurity field or advancing your career, securing the right education, obtaining relevant certifications, and fostering a robust network in Orlando are essential steps to a fulfilling cybersecurity career.

Orlando stands as a beacon of opportunity within the expansive realm of cybersecurity. The city's tech industry job growth, including in cybersecurity, is projected at a robust 26.8%—more than double the national growth rate for computer and information technology jobs by 2030.

This upsurge is a testament to Orlando's burgeoning tech ecosystem, which fosters innovation and creates fertile ground for promising career opportunities in cybersecurity.

As home to the second-highest ranked graduate game design program at the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy and renowned for its simulation and training capabilities, Orlando is poised to shape cybersecurity experts ready to safeguard our digital frontiers.

The demand for information security analysts is skyrocketing, with employment expected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

Opportunities in Orlando's cybersecurity sector span across various levels, from entry to executive, ensuring long-term career viability and growth. Here are several salient points reflecting the potential in cybersecurity:

• Innovation: Orlando's tech hubs and educational practitioners, such as UCF, offer critical support, mentoring, and resources.
• Networking: Frequent events like the ARC Industry Leadership Forum enhance opportunities for learning and connection.
• Career Growth: Continuous professional development is encouraged with access to advanced certifications and training, addressing the growing market trends in cybersecurity.

A career in cybersecurity in Orlando is not just a job; it's an evolutionary journey, positioning those who join its ranks at the forefront of technological advancement.

As an industry expert noted, Orlando's reputation as a technology hub is at an inflection point. For professionals ready to embrace this promising field, training with Nucamp—from front-end to cybersecurity fundamentals—lays the foundational knowledge to navigate the sector's complexities.

Ultimately, the promise and potential of a cybersecurity career in Orlando shine brightly, offering an exceptional path for those equipped to take on the digital challenges of tomorrow.