Internet Security Specialists

Most employers prefer to hire candidates who already have at least two to three years of experience in the security field or one related to it. For example, if the company is looking for a database security specialist, it may consider a candidate who worked as a database administrator for two to three years. Many analysts have experience as a network or systems administrator.

For more senior or higher-level positions, or jobs at companies that are especially vulnerable or concerned with security, you may be required to have at least five years of experience and the certified information systems security professional credential from ISC2.

You must enjoy working with computers and be driven to keep them secure. You must have an eye for detail, since a single overlooked detail can result in a security breach.

Communication skills are important because specialists often deal with management and try to sell them on the importance of security software. The ability to work well as a member of a team is also important because it often takes several specialists working together to address security issues. Other key traits include strong analytical and leadership skills, creativity, ingenuity and good problem-solving skills.