IT security co-ordinator
IT security co-ordinators protect their client's data from illegal access, theft and misuse.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As an IT security co-ordinator, you could:
- assess risks to computer systems and test security products
- design or upgrade security systems
- prepare for security breaches and plan how to minimise potential threats
- investigate breaches and use ethical hacking to find security flaws
- create reports and make sure procedures meet network security standards
Working environment
You could work at a client's business or in an office.
Career path and progression
With experience you could:
- become a network manager or IT project manager
- move into security consultancy
- work for the police, security services or specialist law firms who investigate computer crimes
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- complex problem-solving skills
- excellent written communication skills
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate course in:
- computing
- information systems
- project management
- business management
Courses with industry placements or summer internships might help you develop your skills.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
You could do a T Level in Digital Support Services and then apply for a trainee IT cyber security position.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Cyber Security Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Advanced Digital Forensic Professional Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship
These involve a mix of learning in the workplace and off-site study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
- a degree in a relevant subject
More Information
You could start work as an IT support technician after your GCSEs or A levels.
You could then train on the job or get more qualifications to become an IT security co-ordinator.
You could apply to work as an IT security co-ordinator if you have experience in IT management, network engineering or cyber intelligence.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Chartered Institute of Information Security for professional development opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about working in IT and digital security from The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) and the UK Cyber Security Council.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.