Cybersecurity Career Roadmap 2026: Beginner to CISO

Cybersecurity Career Roadmap

Cybersecurity offers structured career progression with clear certification milestones.

Entry-Level (0-2 years)

SOC Analyst Tier 1/2: $55,000-$85,000. Certifications: CompTIA Security+, CySA+.

Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Security Engineer: $90,000-$140,000. Penetration Tester: $95,000-$150,000. Certifications: CEH, OSCP, AWS Security.

Senior (5-10 years)

Security Architect: $130,000-$200,000. Security Manager: $120,000-$180,000. Certification: CISSP.

Leadership (10+ years)

CISO: $200,000-$400,000+. VP of Security: $180,000-$350,000.