7 High Paying Cybersecurity Jobs Anyone Can Learn

Introduction: Cybersecurity Is the Future (and It Pays Well)

Hackers target companies every day. Passwords stolen. Emails leaked. Money is gone.

That’s why cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. The best part? You don’t need to be a genius or have a computer science degree to start.

In this article, we’ll show you 7 high-paying cybersecurity jobs that you can learn—even if you’re a beginner.

Let’s get started.

1. Cybersecurity Analyst

What they do:
Cybersecurity analysts watch over a company’s computer systems. They look for anything suspicious and stop cyberattacks before they cause damage.

Skills needed:

• Basic knowledge of networks and firewalls
• Ability to read and understand alerts
• Attention to detail

Why it’s good:

• You can start with basic IT skills.
• There are many entry-level jobs.
• Pays well, even at the start

Average Salary:
💰 $70,000–$95,000 per year

✅ Tip: You can start learning this job through free platforms like Cybrary or YouTube.

2. Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)

What they do:
Ethical hackers break into systems—but legally. Companies pay them to find security holes before real hackers do.

Skills needed:

• Learn how to think like a hacker
• Use tools like Kali Linux and Metasploit
• Know how websites and networks work

Why it’s good:

• It’s exciting and challenging.
• You learn real hacking skills—ethically.
• Many companies need this job.

Average Salary:
💰 $85,000–$120,000 per year

✅ Tip: Google “CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)” to find courses to get started.

3. Security Consultant

What they do:
They give advice to companies about how to protect their data. They inspect systems and recommend necessary tools or actions to maintain security.

Skills needed:

• Understand threats and risks
• Communicate well with others
• Have strong knowledge of cybersecurity tools

Why it’s good:

• You can work as a freelancer or with a company.
• It pays very well.
• You get to help many different businesses.

Average Salary:
💰 $90,000–$130,000 per year

✅ Tip: Start by working in IT or helpdesk roles to build up real experience.

4. Incident Responder (Digital Forensics Expert)

What they do:
These people come in after a cyberattack. They find out what happened, how it happened, and how to stop it from happening again.

Skills needed:

• Investigative mindset
• Knowledge of digital forensics tools
• Ability to work under pressure

Why it’s good:

• You’re like a cyber detective.
• It’s important work after a hack.
• Growing demand for skilled responders

Average Salary:
💰 $80,000–$115,000 per year

✅ Tip: Try learning digital forensics tools like Autopsy or FTK Imager to get started.

5. Security Software Developer

What they do:
They create software that helps protect systems from threats. Such programs could be antivirus tools, firewalls, or secure apps.

Skills needed:

• Programming languages (Python, C++, Java)
• Understanding Encryption
• Knowledge of secure coding practices

Why it’s good:

• You build real tools for real problems.
• High demand for skilled developers
• Can work remotely or freelance

Average Salary:
💰 $90,000–$130,000 per year

✅ Tip: If you already know how to code, this position is a great way to shift into cybersecurity jobs.

6. Security Auditor

What they do:
Security auditors check if a company is following security rules and best practices. They review systems, documents, and policies.

Skills needed:

• Understanding cybersecurity standards (like ISO, NIST)
• Attention to detail
• Report writing and analysis

Why it’s good:

• Many companies need regular audits.
• Less technical than other jobs
• Great for business-minded people

Average Salary:
💰 $75,000–$105,000 per year.r

✅ Tip: If you have a business or finance background, you can learn cybersecurity and become a strong auditor.

7. Cloud Security Specialist

What they do:
More companies are moving to the cloud (like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure). Cloud security specialists protect this data and these platforms from attacks.

Skills needed:

• Learn how cloud systems work
• Know tools like AWS Security Hub
• Understand cloud risks and protection methods

Why it’s beneficial:

• Cloud is the future of tech
• Many remote jobs are available.
• High pay and rapid career growth

Average Salary:
💰 $100,000–$140,000 per year

✅ Tip: Free cloud training is available from AWS and Microsoft. Start small and build up.

Why Cybersecurity Jobs Are Great for anyone.

You don’t need a fancy degree to start in cybersecurity. Many successful professionals started with:

• A free online course
• A helpdesk or IT support job
• A personal interest in computers

Cybersecurity jobs are not just for “tech people.” They need writers, researchers, testers, and thinkers. If you’re willing to learn, there’s a place for you.

How to Start (Simple Steps)

If you want to get into cybersecurity, here’s what to do:

1. Choose one role from this list.

Pick the one that fits your interest and background.

2. Learn the basics.

Use free sites like Cybrary, TryHackMe, or YouTube tutorials.

3. Get certified.

Look into beginner certifications, like

• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• AWS Cloud Practitioner (for the cloud).

4. Practice skills

Try real-world labs. Many websites offer safe environments to learn hacking and defense.

5. Apply for entry-level jobs.

Search for roles like “IT Support” or “Junior Security Analyst.”

🔑 Remember: Everyone starts somewhere. You don’t need to know everything on day one.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand industries today. And the best part? You can start with little or no experience.

These 7 cybersecurity jobs can lead to a lucrative career:

1. Cybersecurity Analyst
2. Ethical Hacker
3. Security Consultant
4. Incident Responder
5. Security Software Developer
6. Security Auditor
7. Cloud Security Specialist

They pay well. They’re exciting. And anyone can learn them.

So, why wait?

Start learning today. One course, one tutorial, or one small job is all it takes to begin your journey into the world of cybersecurity jobs.