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What is an information security administrator and how to become one
In the digital age, guarding a company's data involves a lot more than patrolling the halls with a nightstick. Defending invaluable IT systems calls for the specialized skills and knowledge of an information security administrator.
Information security administrators are the protectors of consumer and company data, overseeing the safety of all IT-related issues a business might require. They fight off and defend against hackers while building defensive strategies and systems against possible future attacks.
Of course, the job of an information security administrator goes much deeper than installing antivirus software. This role often involves developing security systems and guidelines, training company employees in responsible data management and security protocols, and monitoring networks for vulnerabilities and malicious activities.
The defense of data is no small responsibility, so information security administrators are typically expected to hold a degree in computer science or a similar IT security certification. This is usually not an entry-level position, with most cybersecurity leaders working in junior roles (such as IT security officers) before advancing to an information security administrators' role.
However, the education and experience requirements are sufficiently rewarded by an average annual salary starting at around $51,000. After several years in this position, information security administrators can expect to make up to as much as $120k per year.
What general advice would you give to an information security administrator?
Joé Lloyd
Senior Director, AVIXA
Avg. Salary $81,604
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 32%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.43%
Asian 9.64%
Black or African American 9.15%
Hispanic or Latino 8.99%
Unknown 6.09%
White 65.70%
Genderfemale 37.33%
male 62.67%
Age - 42American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 42Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Information security administrator career paths
Key steps to become an information security administrator
Explore information security administrator education requirements
Start to develop specific information security administrator skills
Skills Percentages Incident Response 5.72% Security Systems 5.54% Data Loss Prevention 4.82% Security Policies 4.76% Security Procedures 4.41% Complete relevant information security administrator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New information security administrators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an information security administrator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real information security administrator resumes.Gain additional information security administrator certifications
More About CertificationsInformation security administrator certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific information security administrator certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for information security administrators include Security 5 Certification and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
Research information security administrator duties and responsibilities
- Lead enterprise-wide virtualization effort, overseeing and completing vendor/hardware qualifications, architecture/design, installation, configuration, migration and documentation.
- Work with auditors to gather the proper information for PCI and SOX audits and submit the information in timely require manner.
- Create and conduct HIPAA training program for executive management and general staff.
- Establish HIPAA policies and procedures and implement system measures to ensure compliance.
Prepare your information security administrator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your information security administrator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an information security administrator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable information security administrator resume templates
Build a professional information security administrator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your information security administrator resume.
Apply for information security administrator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for an information security administrator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first information security administrator job
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Average information security administrator salary
The average information security administrator salary in the United States is $81,604 per year or $39 per hour. Information security administrator salaries range between $57,000 and $116,000 per year.
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Updated January 8, 2025
