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Job outlook for security architects in the United States
Are security architect jobs in demand?
Security architect job and salary trends over time
Security architect jobs over time
Security architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,900 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 1,791 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 1,699 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 2,538 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 2,472 | 0.00% |
Average security architect salary over time
Security architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $128,636 | $61.84 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $124,398 | $59.81 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $121,581 | $58.45 | +3.0% |
| 2022 | $118,070 | $56.76 | +3.1% |
| 2021 | $114,473 | $55.04 | +2.8% |
Security architect jobs by state
Most common states for security architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 468 | 67% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 218 | 29% |
| 3 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,545 | 28% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 272 | 28% |
| 5 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 347 | 26% |
| 6 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 3,204 | 25% |
| 7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,503 | 25% |
| 8 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 2,139 | 24% |
| 9 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 2,895 | 23% |
| 10 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 2,354 | 23% |
| 11 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,728 | 23% |
| 12 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 2,297 | 22% |
| 13 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 802 | 22% |
| 14 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 227 | 22% |
| 15 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 408 | 21% |
| 16 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,706 | 20% |
| 17 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 1,197 | 20% |
| 18 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 208 | 20% |
| 19 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,349 | 19% |
| 20 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,075 | 19% |
Most common cities for security architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 15 | 38% | $130,879 |
| 2 | Dover | 13 | 34% | $122,644 |
| 3 | Lansing | 14 | 12% | $118,524 |
| 4 | Hartford | 13 | 11% | $128,732 |
| 5 | Topeka | 13 | 10% | $113,968 |
| 6 | Springfield | 12 | 10% | $122,120 |
| 7 | Des Moines | 17 | 8% | $109,633 |
| 8 | Little Rock | 14 | 7% | $106,474 |
| 9 | Tallahassee | 14 | 7% | $116,214 |
| 10 | Atlanta | 29 | 6% | $121,154 |
| 11 | Washington | 24 | 4% | $126,139 |
| 12 | Urban Honolulu | 14 | 4% | $111,622 |
| 13 | Boston | 22 | 3% | $132,686 |
| 14 | Sacramento | 16 | 3% | $149,464 |
| 15 | Denver | 15 | 2% | $122,109 |
| 16 | Indianapolis | 15 | 2% | $107,297 |
| 17 | Phoenix | 23 | 1% | $131,806 |
| 18 | Chicago | 14 | 1% | $122,496 |
Security Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of security architect experts
Rider University
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
SUNY at Buffalo
Pace University
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
Northwood University
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
The University of Tampa
University of Idaho
Albertus Magnus College
Medaille College
Texas A&M University San Antonio
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
University at Buffalo – The State University of New York
University of Georgia
What general advice would you give to a Security Architect?
Robert Cutlip Ph.D.: Seek internship opportunities while still enrolled. This will help with gaining experience, growing professionally, and starting to build your professional reputation and contacts. Also, actively engage in networking and outreach, along with research on private sector or government sector opportunities that you can pursue.
What Security Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Robert Cutlip Ph.D.: Regarding salary, internship experience or part-time employment in the field will be of benefit. Also, any certifications in this area will be of benefit to prospective employers.
What will help Security Architects increase their earning potential?
Robert Cutlip Ph.D.: The field of Cybersecurity is rapidly evolving. Threats from foreign actors are becoming more mature. Also, artificial intelligence presents new challenges. I would suggest staying abreast of new threat signatures, mitigation strategies, and technologies that will be a factor in this space in the near future.
What Security Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Zhengping Luo Ph.D.: Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field deeply rooted in Computer Science. To excel as a cybersecurity expert, you must understand the underlying technology of information systems. Therefore, continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies are essential. Currently, generative models like large language models are on the rise. It won't be long before cybersecurity concerns expand to include artificial intelligence technologies. Thus, the ability to keep pace with technological advancements, such as AI, is crucial for cybersecurity professionals. Cybersecurity is still evolving, and programming/debugging skills remain crucial. In addition, strong communication and teamwork skills are increasingly essential for cybersecurity experts.
What will help Security Architects increase their earning potential?
Zhengping Luo Ph.D.: Maximizing your salary potential hinges on providing value in a market-driven economy. Make sure to focus on developing skills that are in high demand. One of the tips is to consider expanding your horizons beyond where you grow up or the place you received your degree. Explore opportunities in locations that value your talents and offer competitive compensation, such as different cities, states, or even nations. Additionally, don't limit yourself to familiar job roles; be open to new positions and industries. The evolving job market continually creates new and unforeseen opportunities. While striving for financial success is important, it's equally vital to consider long-term goals and personal fulfillment. Prioritize maximizing life experiences and other cherished values alongside financial goals.
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA
Associate Professor, Director Architectural Engineering ProgramWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Security Architect?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Employers always stress the importance of students knowing the fundamentals of engineering and the integration of engineering fundamentals with architectural design. Our program is quite unique in this respect as we are the only degree program in the country where students can earn an architectural engineering degree that is ABET accredited (they can get their PE) - and then also can gain their NAAB accredited architecture degree with one additional year (allowing them to also become architects). Knowledge of building information modeling is required, and I would think that AI at some point will also play a role when combined with advanced surveying technologies.
What will help Security Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Starting salary is something they can/should consider – but it is often better for recent graduates to understand the growth potential with a particular employer/firm and understand what other benefits exist. We tell them to ask questions about the typical promotion steps within an organization, for example. Students that have taken the FE exam should highlight that – and ask questions in the interview about what mentoring there is within a firm to take the PE exam – it shows a positive level of professional attitude. Our students work for architects, engineering consultancy, contractors, etc. I think Bankrate listed AE as the most rewarding degree a few years ago – and one of the items listed was the diversity of office and fieldwork that makes employment enjoyable (i.e. not stuck in their office all week)
What will help Security Architects increase their earning potential?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: Salary isn’t the whole story. Recent graduates need to take into account not only salary, but housing costs, and living expenses. The salary of a young architect will go farther in Chicago than it will in New York, Boston, or San Francisco. Cities with more extensive public transportation systems might offer recent graduates the option of not owning a car which could be a significant cost savings when you factor in car purchase cost, gas, parking, insurance, and maintenance.
What general advice would you give to a Security Architect?
Martin Gold FAIA: The most widespread complaint from people in the field is that it consumes ones attention, requires long hours, and relative to other professions, such as medicine, law, accounting, or engineering, the pay is lower on a per hour basis. On the other hand, architecture is more of an art than other professions and offers opportunities for creative people to have prosperous careers. The famous French architect Le Corbusier would say, architecture is a way of life.
What Security Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: I would advise architecture students to be as flexible as possible. While NAAB accredited schools award 6,000 to 7,000 professional degrees per year, NCARB states that fewer than 3,500 architects reach licensure each year. This suggests that many of those educated as architects are actually finding work in allied subjects. I know of many graduates who are set to become architects who end up becoming real estate professionals, construction professionals, policy-makers, academics, and more. Even for those dead set on architectural practice, these opportunities in adjacent fields can open doors to more design-focused practice.
What will help Security Architects increase their earning potential?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling software like Revit is already all but a requirement to find professional work. Increasingly, firms are also looking for those who are capable of using visual programming like Grasshopper or Dynamo not only to generate forms but to optimize their workflow. In addition to those, professionals should familiarize themselves with modeling programs including SketchUp and Rhino and visualization platforms like VRay, Enscape, and Twin Motion. Soft skills like being personable and being able to present ideas extemporaneously will never go out of style.
What general advice would you give to a Security Architect?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Adaptability will always be an important skill. There will be software improvements and changes that you need to stay aware of and technology that will benefit both the design and construction sides of the industry. Communication will remain an important part of the way we work together in teams.
What Security Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Architecture licensure will help maximize salary potential, as well as pursuing other certifications such as LEED, CPHC, WELL, etc. Be your own advocate and request regular/annual reviews that allow you to highlight accomplishments and value you bring to your employer. If specialization appeals to you, there are opportunities to market yourself as an expert in a specific subject area.
What will help Security Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Darren Hayes: Artificial intelligence - in terms of automating certain areas of cybersecurity, such as acquiring threat intelligence, malware detection and being alerted to network breaches. Ransomware continues to be the primary concern for most organizations and using AI to quickly identify those threats and quickly respond will be key. AI can also be used in investigations, such as photo searches to identify where a suspect is or to find a missing person. Knowledge of current events - especially geopolitical events. These events have repercussions for the most sophisticated (state-sponsored) cyber attacks. Knowledge of a second, third or fourth language, is helpful now and will continue to be important - especially from a cybersecurity perspective because investigations often include foreign nationals. Knowledge of malware is really important for homeland security and this area of expertise will continue to be in demand. Incident response will continue to be understaffed and therefore tremendous opportunities will continue for those who can respond to network breaches, forensically analyze systems, examine malware, etc. Other areas of importance include, machine learning, quantum computing, open source intelligence (OSINT), threat intelligence (especially related to critical infrastructure and SCADA), cryptocurrencies, IoT threats and IoT evidence, to name but a few.
What general advice would you give to a Security Architect?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: It is important for recent graduates to recognize that Architecture is no longer limited to the physical realm, as transformative technologies are providing interesting career opportunities in the digital realm as well. This rapidly evolving context offers many opportunities and new directions for the discipline and remaining (or becoming!) current in new developments in computing power, digital visuals, manufacturing technologies, and robotics, are ways in which a recent graduate can secure a good paying job.
What Security Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: Globally, there is significant demand for architects who are facile in the use of transformative technologies that support designers to generate and evaluate innovative ideas to provide solutions in a rapidly changing environment. Needless to say, being extremely competent in the many applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Extended Reality (XR), Generative Design, and Sustainability, will make new graduates effective at a time in which the profession and the world are rapidly transforming.
Professor David Sanford
Associate Professor an Department Chair (MIS, CS, CYB MGT, IS CYB)Northwood University
Computer And Information Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Security Architect?
Professor David Sanford: Workers like that they are challenged to solve problems and lead technological innovations.
They appreciate the diversity of projects
They enjoy the need for continuous improvement and education
Many see the global impact of their work.
They also desire and appreciate the need for versatile skills
A competitive salary is also an item that employees like
Workers dislike that the work can be stressful
Dealing with tight deadlines and/ or cybersecurity concerns.
This is a positive and a negative: The need to constantly stay up to date with technology can be a bit overwhelming for some.
There may be times of isolation, and
The unexpected system failures can be frustrating as they often require extra hours or the need to be on-call.
The multiple responsibilities and managing repetitive tasks are also issues workers point out in this field.
In short, the workplace offers exciting opportunities but comes with its fair share of pressures and challenges. Different people have different experiences based on their roles and personal preferences.
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What experience really stands out on Security Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Experience in the areas where one intends to practice. If someone wants to work in hospitality design, an employer will see what kind of experience they have. This is why selecting one's internship location is so important.
Many employers are also looking to see how well the Interior Designer can think outside the box and develop innovative design ideas.
An area of specialized knowledge that will complement the existing design team. Most firms are looking for future leaders.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Security Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: COVID-19 has changed the playing field, and future skills will need to include creative ways to use materials and systems for enhanced infection control. This will consist of thinking differently about ventilation systems, space planning, and material specifications.
Louis Bobelis
Part-Time FacultyThe University of Tampa
Information and Technology Management Department
What soft skills should all Security Architects possess?
Louis Bobelis: I feel the most important soft skill is character. Being outspoken and able to explain technical cyber incidents decisively and clearly for non-IT-oriented people in your organization is especially important when you are in more senior-level positions.
Randall Randall
Program Head Architecture, ProfessorUniversity of Idaho
Architecture Department
What skills stand out on Security Architect resumes?
Randall Randall: Diversity of creative work demonstrated in a portfolio.
David Garaventa
Director, Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Programs, Assistant Professor, CISAlbertus Magnus College
Business Administration and Management Department
What skills stand out on Security Architect resumes?
David Garaventa: The skills/attributes required across a variety of jobs in the IT fields.
Dr. Steven MacMartin
Director, Associate ProfessorMedaille College
Homeland Security Program
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Security Architect job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Steven MacMartin: Overall, in general? Health care, elementary school teachers, daycare, researchers at the PhD level and also low level, entry/service jobs - fast food, restaurant, bar, etc. Homeland Security specifically - really none. Jobs in the Homeland Security field have remained largely unaffected by the pandemic, and the pandemic isn't really directly related to specific Homeland Security jobs. (Maybe in the research and technology fields.). A side effect of the pandemic has been to focus a little on cyber security issues and those jobs could expand in law enforcement and Homeland Security areas.
What soft skills should all Security Architects possess?
Dr. Steven MacMartin: Absolutely - writing and oral presentation. A secondary skill that is helpful is academic research skills. But definitely writing skills.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Security Architects?
Izzat Alsmadi: All certificates related to the earlier fields, specially data science and cyber security.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Security Architect job market given the pandemic?
James Shields: In mid-to-late 2020, some 70% of architecture firms saw a decline in billings due to Covid-19 impacts. Some architecture firms were hit worse than others; firms that designed office buildings, hospitality projects and cultural buildings fared poorly, and in general have not been hiring. Health care organizations and the architecture firms that service them have also been hit, although most firms have helped hospitals evaluate or design alternative Covid-care facilities.
Firms that design housing projects remained more stable and have continued to at least interview some job candidates. There has also been an increase in demand for master planning services of all kinds, as communities and businesses want to be prepared for the end of the pandemic and a return to more normal economic activity with a plan for expansion in place. Firms that design Science & Technology buildings, like university lab, science and health care teaching buildings, have also seen their workload remain stable and be less affected by the pandemic as many US States have continued to fund such projects.
School design firms have also done well, as many local districts have been able to pass referendums for new projects during the crisis, keeping their architects busy. There has also been a surprisingly strong turn towards interest in sustainable energy and infrastructure systems during the pandemic.
What skills stand out on Security Architect resumes?
James Shields: Many interviews for architecture jobs remain online at the present time, so an ability to communicate via Zoom or Teams is vital. Looking professional on the small screen with an ability to show your work well are skills that can be practiced before an interview. Most architecture employees are currently working online from home, so knowledge of the essential digital architecture programs (like Revit, Bluebeam, Sketchup, et al) is currently very important. On resumes and in portfolios, any experience in the architecture sectors that have remained relatively stable (Housing, Master Planning, Science & Tech, Schools, sustainable infrastructure) should be emphasized. If you have no such experience, read up on current trends in these practice areas online and find some that interest you. Conveying such an interest can go a long way.
What skills stand out on Security Architect resumes?
Korydon Smith: Integrative thinking, a core competency in architecture, will become all the more important across sectors. Problem solving amidst complexity, resource constraints, and dynamic factors is what architects do; all businesses will need people that think this way.
Paul Phillips CISA, CISM, MBA
IT Risk Professional Practices LeadISACA
What type of skills will young Security Architects need?
Paul Phillips CISA, CISM, MBA: The recommended skillsets will vary depending on the type of role that the recent graduate is pursuing. In a research development team at a non-profit association like ISACA, for example, we look for candidates not only with specific knowledge or experience in a certain field - like IT risk or IT audit - but also with the ability to analyze data and communicate about research findings or best practices in these areas in a clear way in reports and other content to our members and the larger tech community.
Because our association serves tech professionals, we also have some interesting research around what they are looking for in employees too. Technology skills (especially those related to cybersecurity), as well as creative and communication skills are both attractive to these employers. ISACA's State of Cybersecurity 2020 survey report found that cybersecurity jobs are in high demand, and 78 percent of survey respondents expect an increased demand for technical cybersecurity positions. Among the skills they are looking for in their candidates are not just IT knowledge and cybersecurity technical experience but also business insight and soft skills (like communication).
What experience really stands out on Security Architect resumes?
Paul Phillips CISA, CISM, MBA: Leadership and project management skills always stand out on a resume. Having any experience in leading a project and being able to demonstrate how this was profitable or made some impact for an organization is valuable, especially for a non-profit who may be looking for how to get the biggest value with sometimes limited resources. Again, technology skills coupled with marketing and/or business skills will be of particular interest. Employers are looking for candidates who will not only be able to bring relevant skills to perform their job, but who also have the communications skills and business savvy to be able to effectively engage with leadership and understand how their work ties in with the larger objectives of the organization.
Maric Boudreau
Department Head & Associate ProfessorUniversity of Georgia
Department of Management Information Systems
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Security Architects?
Maric Boudreau: Certainly - many businesses had to transform themselves to adjust to the current situation, and some of these changes will remain. For example, whereas we assumed that in-person interactions were always best, we now realize that virtual communications bring many benefits, such as greater efficiency and lower costs. Business processes have been streamlined and are more reliant on technology than ever before. MIS graduates are in a relatively good situation in that they have the necessary skill set allowing them to evolve very comfortably in a technology-based environment.