Position
Salary

How much does a Security Specialist make?

The average salary for a Security Specialist is $70,150 per year in the US.

A Security Specialist plays a key role in protecting organizations from threats. This job often involves monitoring security systems and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. The average yearly salary for a Security Specialist is around $70,150. This means that, on average, someone in this role can expect to earn a good income.

The salary for a Security Specialist can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn higher salaries. For example, a Security Specialist with over 10 years of experience can earn up to $167,000 per year. Locations with higher costs of living, like big cities, may also offer higher salaries. This makes the job attractive for those looking to advance their careers and earn a competitive income.

View Security Specialist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Security Specialist?

Security Specialists can find some of the best pay in Jackson, MS, with an average salary of $116,856. Washington, DC, and Durham, NC, also offer high salaries, with averages of $103,323 and $102,435, respectively. Chattanooga, TN, Seattle, WA, and Raleigh, NC, provide competitive salaries, making these cities attractive for job seekers in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Security Specialist jobs, highlighting Jackson, MS with the highest at $116,856 and Lafayette, LA with the lowest at $93,586.
  1. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $116,856
    In Jackson, a Security Specialist can expect a dynamic work environment. The city is home to major companies like Entergy Mississippi and Trustmark Corporation. These firms offer robust security needs, making it a great place for professionals in this field.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Jackson, MS


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $103,323
    Working as a Security Specialist in Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. With numerous government agencies and international organizations, the demand for skilled security experts is high. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman provide a stable career path.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $102,435
    Durham, NC, is a thriving hub for technology and research. As a Security Specialist, you will find ample opportunities in companies like IBM and Cisco. The city's focus on innovation makes it an exciting place to work, with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Durham, NC


  4. Chattanooga, TN
    Average Salary: $101,890
    Chattanooga offers a growing market for security professionals. The city's diverse economy includes companies like Volkswagen and EPB. Working here means being part of a community that values safety and security, providing a rewarding career path.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Chattanooga, TN


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $97,549
    Seattle is known for its tech giants and vibrant culture. As a Security Specialist, you will find opportunities with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's focus on innovation and technology creates a dynamic environment for security experts.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $96,432
    Raleigh, NC, is a city with a strong emphasis on research and technology. Working as a Security Specialist here means being part of a community that values safety. Companies like Red Hat and SAS Institute offer excellent career opportunities.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Raleigh, NC


  7. Gainesville, FL
    Average Salary: $95,815
    Gainesville, FL, offers a mix of academic and corporate environments. With the University of Florida and companies like Santa Fe College, there are plenty of opportunities for security professionals. The city's focus on education and research creates a unique work environment.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Gainesville, FL


  8. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $94,958
    Augusta, GA, provides a stable market for security specialists. The city is home to companies like Aflac and the U.S. Army Signal Center. Working here means being part of a community that values safety and security, offering a rewarding career path.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Augusta, GA


  9. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $94,899
    Hartford, CT, is a city with a rich history and a strong focus on insurance. As a Security Specialist, you will find opportunities with companies like Aetna and Travelers. The city's emphasis on financial security makes it an ideal place for professionals in this field.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Hartford, CT


  10. Lafayette, LA
    Average Salary: $93,586
    Lafayette, LA, offers a growing market for security professionals. The city is known for its energy sector and companies like Chevron and Total. Working here means being part of a community that values safety and security, providing a stable career path.
    Find Security Specialist jobs in Lafayette, LA

What are the best companies a Security Specialist can work for?

Palo Alto Networks offers one of the highest salaries for Security Specialists, averaging around $240,000 annually. KPMG also provides a competitive salary, close to $218,000 per year. TikTok, Amazon Web Services, and Wells Fargo follow closely, each offering salaries over $150,000 annually. AECOM, Google, and Microsoft also offer attractive compensation packages, with average salaries exceeding $150,000. Kaiser Permanente and Accenture provide solid salaries, with averages around $140,000. These companies value skilled security specialists and offer competitive benefits.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Security Specialist jobs, highlighting Palo Alto Networks with the highest at $240,017 and Accenture with the lowest at $129,856.
  1. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $240,017
    Palo Alto Networks offers exciting opportunities for Security Specialists. They work on cutting-edge security solutions. The company operates globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.


  2. KPMG
    Average Salary: $218,000
    KPMG provides a dynamic environment for Security Specialists. They focus on protecting clients' data and systems. KPMG has offices worldwide, including the U.S., UK, and Australia.


  3. TikTok
    Average Salary: $167,326
    At TikTok, Security Specialists play a key role in safeguarding user data. They work in a fast-paced setting. TikTok has offices in the U.S., UK, and other countries.


  4. Amazon Web Services
    Average Salary: $158,363
    Amazon Web Services offers rewarding roles for Security Specialists. They help secure cloud services. AWS operates globally, with major hubs in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.


  5. Wells Fargo
    Average Salary: $158,331
    Wells Fargo provides stable positions for Security Specialists. They focus on protecting financial data. The bank has branches across the U.S. and internationally.


  6. AECOM
    Average Salary: $157,650
    AECOM offers diverse opportunities for Security Specialists. They work on securing infrastructure projects. AECOM operates worldwide, with offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.


  7. Google
    Average Salary: $149,875
    Google provides innovative roles for Security Specialists. They focus on protecting user data and systems. Google has offices globally, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.


  8. Microsoft
    Average Salary: $142,394
    Microsoft offers exciting opportunities for Security Specialists. They work on securing software and services. Microsoft has offices worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.


  9. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $141,449
    Kaiser Permanente provides rewarding roles for Security Specialists. They focus on protecting patient data. The healthcare provider operates in the U.S., with major facilities on the West Coast.


  10. Accenture
    Average Salary: $129,856
    Accenture offers diverse opportunities for Security Specialists. They work on securing client data and systems. Accenture operates globally, with offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

How to earn more as a Security Specialist?

A Security Specialist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying positions. Certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) are highly valued. Certifications show a commitment to the field and a deeper understanding of security practices.

Experience plays a crucial role in earning more. Working in various environments and gaining a broad range of experiences can make a Security Specialist more valuable. Each new role adds to a professional's skill set and makes them more attractive to employers willing to pay more. Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to new opportunities and higher-paying jobs. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting on platforms like LinkedIn can help build a strong professional network.

Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Security Specialist:

  1. Certifications: Obtain specialized certifications like CISSP or CEH.
  2. Experience: Work in various roles to gain a broad range of experiences.
  3. Networking: Attend industry events and join professional organizations.
  4. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest security trends and technologies.
  5. Leadership Skills: Develop skills in managing teams and projects.

Currently 1,320 Security Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Security Specialist in the US?

Learn what a Security Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Security Specialist today.
Position
Overview
Security Specialist
1,320 Job Openings