If there’s one field that’s constantly buzzing with opportunity, it’s cyber security. I’ve seen people from all walks of tech pivot into this space, and honestly, the demand isn’t slowing down – quite the opposite, in fact! With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated by the day, businesses are scrambling for skilled professionals to protect their precious data and systems. The (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study for 2023 highlighted a global workforce gap of a staggering 4 million professionals. That’s a lot of empty chairs waiting to be filled by talented individuals like you!
So, if you’re thinking about a career in cyber security, or perhaps looking to specialise further, 2025 is shaping up to be a blinder. Let’s break down some of the roles I reckon will be in highest demand, what they involve, what you might earn, and the shiny certs that can help you get your foot in the door.
1. Security Analyst (SOC Analyst)
What they do: Think of Security Analysts as the first line of defence. They monitor an organisation’s networks and systems for security breaches or intrusions, investigate incidents, and then help remediate them. They’re often found in a Security Operations Centre (SOC) and are crucial for real-time threat detection and response.
Why it’s hot for 2025: Every organisation, big or small, needs someone watching the gates. As automated attacks increase, the need for human oversight and analytical skills to interpret alerts and identify genuine threats becomes even more paramount.
Key Skills:
- Network security monitoring
- SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) tools (e.g., Splunk, LogRhythm, QRadar)
- Incident detection and response
- Vulnerability assessment
- Understanding of operating systems, networking protocols, and security principles.
Valuable Certificates:
- CompTIA Security+: A brilliant foundational cert.
- CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst): More focused on behavioural analytics.
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Highly respected.
Salary Range (approximate, can vary widely based on experience and location):
- UK: £30,000 – £60,000+
- US: $70,000 – $120,000+
2. Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
What they do: Pen Testers are the good guys who think like bad guys. They are hired to legally hack into systems, networks, and applications to find vulnerabilities before malicious actors do. It’s a highly technical and often very creative role.
Why it’s hot for 2025: Proactive security is key. Companies are realising it’s far cheaper to find and fix flaws before they’re exploited. With new software and systems being deployed constantly, the need for rigorous testing will only grow.
Key Skills:
- Strong understanding of operating systems, networks, and web application security.
- Proficiency with testing tools (e.g., Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap).
- Scripting skills (Python, Bash, PowerShell).
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Report writing.
Valuable Certificates:
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): The gold standard, very hands-on.
- CREST Registered Penetration Tester (CRT Pen): Highly regarded, especially in the UK and Europe.
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): A well-known entry point, though OSCP and CREST are often preferred for more advanced roles.
- GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN): Another solid option.
Salary Range:
- UK: £40,000 – £85,000+ (can go much higher for senior/specialist roles)
- US: $80,000 – $150,000+
3. Cloud Security Engineer
What they do: As more and more organisations migrate to the cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP), the need for specialists who can secure these environments is exploding. Cloud Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures for cloud-based infrastructure and applications.
Why it’s hot for 2025: The cloud isn’t going anywhere! According to Gartner, worldwide end-user spending on public cloud services is forecast to grow 20.4% to total $678.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $1 trillion in 2027. Securing this vast expansion is a top priority.
Key Skills:
- Deep knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
- Identity and Access Management (IAM) in the cloud.
- Containerisation security (Docker, Kubernetes).
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC) security.
- Automation skills (e.g., Python, Terraform).
- Understanding of shared responsibility models.
Valuable Certificates:
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Vendor-neutral and highly respected.
- AWS Certified Security – Specialty
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
- Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer
Salary Range:
- UK: £55,000 – £95,000+
- US: $110,000 – $180,000+
4. Cyber Security Architect
What they do: Security Architects are the master planners. They design and build enterprise-level security systems. This involves understanding business requirements, identifying risks, and then creating a robust security posture that aligns with the organisation’s goals. It’s a senior role requiring a broad and deep understanding of security.
Why it’s hot for 2025: As organisations grow and their IT environments become more complex (hybrid cloud, IoT, AI integrations), the need for a cohesive, overarching security strategy and architecture is critical. Architects ensure that security isn’t just an afterthought but is baked in from the ground up.
Key Skills:
- Extensive knowledge of security frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001).
- Network and system security design.
- Risk assessment and management.
- Understanding of compliance and regulatory requirements.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills.
- Ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
Valuable Certificates:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A globally recognised standard for security management and architecture.
- SABSA (Sherwood Applied Business Security Architecture): A framework and methodology for enterprise security architecture.
- TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework): While not purely security, it’s valuable for enterprise architecture understanding.
- GIAC Defensible Security Architecture (GDSA)
Salary Range:
- UK: £70,000 – £120,000+
- US: $130,000 – $200,000+
5. Threat Intelligence Analyst
What they do: These are the detectives of the cyber world. They collect, analyse, and interpret data on cyber threats, threat actors, and their tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs). Their goal is to provide actionable intelligence that helps organisations anticipate, prevent, and respond to attacks.
Why it’s hot for 2025: In an increasingly hostile digital landscape, understanding your enemy is vital. Proactive threat intelligence allows organisations to move from a reactive to a more predictive security posture, which is invaluable. The rise of nation-state actors and sophisticated cybercrime groups means this specialism is in high demand.
Key Skills:
- Data analysis and research skills.
- Understanding of the cyber threat landscape, actors, and motivations.
- Knowledge of intelligence gathering techniques (OSINT, HUMINT, etc.).
- Familiarity with threat intelligence platforms and tools.
- Strong writing and communication skills to disseminate intelligence.
- Understanding of frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK.
Valuable Certificates:
- GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence (GCTI)
- EC-Council Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA)
- SANS FOR578: Cyber Threat Intelligence course (not a cert, but highly regarded training)
Salary Range:
- UK: £45,000 – £80,000+
- US: $90,000 – $160,000+
No matter which path you choose, continuous learning is non-negotiable in cyber security. The threat landscape evolves daily, and so must your skills. Don’t just focus on the technical side either; soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking are just as crucial, especially as you move into more senior or client-facing roles.
The UK government’s “National Cyber Strategy 2022” continues to emphasise building a strong domestic cyber security workforce, which means ongoing investment and opportunities here in the UK. Globally, the picture is similar – cyber security professionals are in demand everywhere.
It’s an exciting time to be in (or getting into) cyber security. The work is challenging, meaningful, and the career prospects are fantastic.
What roles are you eyeing up for 2025? Or perhaps you’re already in one of these roles and have some wisdom to share? Pop your thoughts in the comments below – I’d love to hear from you!
