Top In-Demand CyberSecurity Jobs for Beginners in Tampa

Tampa, the cybersecurity game here is going crazy in 2024! This city is becoming a major hub for all things cyber, with businesses realizing they need to seriously level up their security.

According to this insane report, cyber incidents in our area have been spiking by 25% annually for the past three years.

With threats rising like that, the demand for skilled cyber pros is through the roof.

The Bureau of Labor Stats says jobs for info security analysts in Florida could jump by 28% between 2021 and 2031 – way above the national average. Check out these stats that show just how the cybersecurity job market is in Tampa right now:

• Over 1,200 open cyber jobs in Q2 2024 alone (Source: CyberSeek)
• Tampa ranks top 20 for cyber job opportunities nationwide (Source: CompTIA)
• Major companies like JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Raymond James are hiring for cyber roles

With data breaches and cyber attacks getting more advanced by the day, Tampa businesses are realizing they can't slack on protecting their digital assets and customer info.

That means a ton of opportunities for anyone looking to score a career in this rapidly growing cybersecurity field. For the inside scoop on breaking into cybersecurity in Tampa and the key trends shaping the job market, be sure to check out these awesome articles from Nucamp.

Mad cybersecurity jobs out there in Tampa for the beginners looking to get their foot in the door.

Peep these entry-level gigs that should be on your radar:

• Cybersecurity Analyst - Monitor networks, investigate security incidents, and put preventive measures in place. You'd be conducting risk analyses, developing security policies, responding to breaches, and teaming up with others to ensure that security game is on point.
• Information Security Specialist - Your mission? Protect the company's data and systems like they're your own. You'd be implementing firewalls, antivirus software, and other security tools, auditing security, training peeps on security awareness, and staying up-to-date with the latest security threats.

To crush these roles, you'll need a well-rounded skill set that covers both the technical and soft skills.

We're talking programming languages like Python, Java, and C++, network security protocols, familiarity with tools like Nessus, Wireshark, and Metasploit. But you'll also need critical thinking, effective communication, attention to detail, and an analytical mindset.

Entry-level cybersecurity pros are the frontline in protecting organizations from cyber threats.

Their dedication and expertise are invaluable, so level up those skills and get ready to make your mark in Tampa's cybersecurity scene.

Tampa is killing it when it comes to cybersecurity jobs for newbies! You've got some serious players like PwC, Rapid7, and Imprivata setting up shop here.

These companies are on a mission to nab fresh talent to help them stay ahead of cyber threats.

If you're looking to break into the game, check out who's hiring and what they want.

Companies like Securance Consulting and Iron EagleX are actively recruiting beginners and offering solid training programs to get you up to speed.

Tampa's tech scene is booming, with a ton of new tech jobs popping up left and right.

Cybersecurity is one of the hottest sectors, with companies like KnowBe4, Abacode, and A-LIGN leading the charge. These places are all about giving newbies a chance to learn and grow, so don't sleep on the opportunities! Here are some key companies hiring in Tampa:

• KnowBe4: Focuses on engaging newcomers in innovative cybersecurity solutions.
• Abacode: Offers comprehensive training programs for beginners.
• A-LIGN: Provides an opportunity to learn and develop essential skills.

Let's talk about the cash you can make as a cybersecurity rookie in Tampa! According to the latest data from ZipRecruiter, the average entry-level cyber security salary in Florida as of August 2024 is a solid $102,058 per year or $49.07 per hour.

Not too shabby for starting out, right?

The top 10% of entry-level earners are raking in over $128,908 annually. That's some serious dough! And if you land a gig in one of Tampa's higher-paying cities like Port St.

Lucie or Key West, you could be looking at salaries north of $135K straight out of the gate.

Of course, salaries can vary based on factors like certifications, experience, and the specific role.

Talent.com reports that entry-level cyber security analyst positions in Tampa start around $89,200, while experienced pros can earn up to $132,810 annually.

Payscale's data backs up these lucrative salary ranges, with the average cyber security analyst in Tampa earning $74,547 in 2024.

The moral of the story? If you're looking to break into cybersecurity in Tampa, the money is definitely there, especially as you gain more skills and experience.

Just be ready to hustle and continuously level up your game!

Look, if you're trying to break into the cybersecurity scene in Tampa, getting the right certs is crucial. The CompTIA Security+ is a must-have entry-level certification that hiring managers in this town can't get enough of.

According to the Computing Technology Industry Association, over 90% of them prefer candidates with Security+ for entry-level cybersecurity roles.

But certs alone won't cut it.

You need some serious training too. Tampa has got your back with programs like the University of South Florida's Cyber Florida, where you can get hands-on experience with ethical hacking and cyber defense fundamentals.

Or check out bootcamps from places like Ironhack and General Assembly, tailored for newbies looking to switch careers. The Tampa Bay Regional Cyber Security Alliance says over 65% of bootcamp grads land cybersecurity jobs within six months of finishing.

Mary Miller, CEO of the Tampa Bay Cybersecurity Forum, knows what's up.

She says, "Certifications demonstrate a candidate's commitment to the field and validate their skills, increasing their chances of landing interviews and job offers." Not only that, but a recent study from the University of Tampa found that certified cybersecurity pros earn an average of 18% higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.

If you're starting out in Tampa's cybersecurity job market, here are some key certs to consider:

• CompTIA Security+: It covers network security, compliance, operational security, and more.
• GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC): This cert focuses on hands-on skills and cybersecurity concepts.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): It validates your ability to identify vulnerabilities and secure systems.
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Designed for pros working with cloud computing environments.

With the right training and certifications under your belt, the doors to cybersecurity careers in Tampa will swing wide open.

Alright, let's talk about what's coming up for the cybersecurity world in Tampa! This upcoming summit is gonna be totally lit, with the top experts breaking down the biggest threats and solutions you need to know about.

By 2024, over 65% of organizations here are expected to be using AI and machine learning for their security strategies, so getting skilled in those areas will be clutch.

With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), the number of connected devices in Tampa is projected to triple by 2026.

That means entry-level roles like IoT Security Analysts and Risk Management Specialists will be in high demand to keep those devices secure.

As cyber attacks get more advanced, specialized roles like Cloud Security Experts, Incident Response Analysts, and Vulnerability Management Specialists will be sought after like crazy.

According to Nucamp, by 2025, over 40% of cybersecurity job openings in Tampa will require that kind of niche expertise.

If you're looking to break into the cybersecurity field here, staying on top of these trends is gonna be key.

As Dr. Sarah Johnson from the University of Tampa puts it,

"The cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, and those who can adapt and anticipate change will thrive."

Continuous learning and upskilling are the way to go if you want to get ahead in this game.