Cyber Security Engineer
Design and implement security architectures. Build defensive systems, conduct penetration testing, and ensure infrastructure security across organizations.
What you need to know
Overview
Cyber Security Engineers design, build, and implement security solutions to protect organizational infrastructure. They architect security systems, conduct penetration testing, implement defensive measures, and ensure systems remain secure against evolving threats. This role combines deep technical expertise with strategic security thinking.
Ireland's tech and financial sectors actively recruit security engineers to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive data. With GDPR regulations and increasing cyber threats, Irish organizations invest heavily in security engineering talent to safeguard operations.
Specializations include Penetration Testing, Cloud Security, Application Security, and Security Architecture.
What do security engineers do?
Security engineers work full-time with on-call responsibilities for security incidents. Many Irish positions offer flexible/remote work.
Key responsibilities:
- Design and implement security architectures
- Conduct penetration tests and vulnerability assessments
- Build and maintain security infrastructure
- Implement encryption and access controls
- Configure firewalls, VPNs, and IDS/IPS systems
- Develop security automation tools
- Perform security code reviews
- Respond to security incidents
- Conduct security training for teams
- Stay current with threat landscape
What skills are needed?
Security Engineering
- • Network security architecture
- • Penetration testing tools (Metasploit, Burp Suite)
- • Security frameworks (MITRE ATT&CK)
- • Cryptography and encryption
- • Firewall and VPN technologies
Technical Skills
- • Linux/Unix security
- • Scripting (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
- • Cloud security (AWS, Azure)
- • Application security
- • Network protocols
Professional Skills
- • Problem-solving and creativity
- • Risk assessment
- • Communication skills
- • Ethical hacking mindset
- • Continuous learning
What is the pay?
Average Salary in Ireland
€42,000 - €80,000
Junior security engineers earn €42,000-€50,000, mid-level engineers earn €55,000-€70,000, while senior engineers command €75,000-€95,000. Lead engineers and architects can earn €100,000+.
Premium salaries reflect critical skills shortage. Benefits include certification funding (OSCP, CISSP), professional development, health insurance, pension contributions, and flexible working. Financial services and tech companies offer highest compensation.
What is the career outlook?
Job Growth in Ireland
Security engineering roles growing 40%+ annually in Ireland. Over 800 positions advertised yearly with severe shortage of qualified candidates creating excellent opportunities.
Irish government's National Cyber Security Strategy and industry demand drive sustained growth. Excellent career progression to architect, CISO, or specialized roles.
Why the growth?
- • Sophisticated cyber threats increasing
- • Cloud migration security needs
- • GDPR and compliance requirements
- • Digital transformation security
- • Remote work infrastructure protection
- • Critical infrastructure protection
What education is required?
Educational Pathways
Level 8 Degree + Certifications
Cyber Security or Computer Science degree from Irish universities. Professional certifications (OSCP, CEH, CISSP) highly valued and often required.
Technical Background + Certs
Networking or systems background with security certifications can enable entry. Practical penetration testing skills demonstrated through bug bounties or CTF competitions valued.
Key Skills to Develop
- • Penetration testing methodologies
- • Network security architecture
- • Security tool proficiency
- • Cloud security (AWS, Azure)
- • Scripting and automation
- • Application security testing
- • Incident response
- • Security frameworks knowledge
- • Cryptography fundamentals
- • Threat modeling
Ready to Become a Security Engineer?
Explore resources and discover how to launch your security engineering career.
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