Data security is the foremost concern of every organization. The software security engineer performs tasks to protect data from third-party attacks, loss, and unauthorized access.
For these purposes, the demand for IT security engineers is rising in the technology industry.
This article will explain everything about security developers and the process of hiring cybersecurity engineers.
What is a Security Engineer?
A security developer is a person who specializes in building security systems and executes and monitors security controls to safeguard company data from loss, cyber-attacks, or unauthorized access.
What Does a Security Engineer Do?
A security builder keeps the organization’s security system up-to-date and functional. This includes planning network and computer updates, applying and testing new security features, and responding to security actions.
Roles & Responsibilities
The security engineer’s roles and responsibilities vary widely and depend on the industry, company, and size of the security team.
The main roles and responsibilities of a security developer includes automating security enhancing processes and researching the latest attack vectors and building threat models.
Security engineers also build technical solutions to security threats and perform code audits and security assessments.
Additionally they are responsible for synchronizing incident response throughout teams.
They also acknowledge security events and recognize security measures to enhance incident response.
Types of Security Engineers
IT Security engineers‘ tasks vary, so they are divided into four main types, which are explained below.
1. Application Security Engineer
Application security developers are experts in technical analysis as they secure software design. They focus on Secure SDLC and data security.
| SDLC: Software Development Life Cycle is a structured method which enables the production of low cost, high quality software in the short time production time. |
Additionally, they ensure the security of the company’s apps, data, and programs.
They also guide the application security team.
2. Network Security Engineer
Another type of security programmer is a network cyber security engineer who plans, builds, and maintains network security systems.
Furthermore, network security engineers scan the network for vulnerabilities and conduct mock attacks to defend against malware, phishing, and cyber threats.
3. Cloud Security Engineer
The third type of security developer is a cloud security engineer that protects data in cloud environments.
They are proficient in IAM and cloud network security, so they develop and maintain cloud security tools.
| IAM: Identity and Access Management is a cloud service that manages the access and permissions for users and cloud resources. |
4. Information Security Engineer
The fourth type of security programmer is an information security engineer who safeguards client and business data from online threats.
Information security engineer collaborates with departments to enhance security along with designs and integrates security systems and data collection procedures.
Additionally, they monitor networks, conduct assessments, and provide training.
Benefits of Hiring a Security Engineer
There are multiple benefits an organization can enjoy by hiring a security developer. Following are the main security engineers’ benefits.
1. IT Infrastructure Security
Security engineers design and implement protocols to protect computer networks. They also control data access, enforce authentication, and configure firewalls.
Additionally, they can restrict website access and prevent the installation of risky applications.
2. Data Protection
Security developers monitor data flows to ensure integrity and confidentiality. Also, they prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.
3. User Safety and Network Efficiency
In-house security management reduces risks associated with outsourcing. Security programmers optimize network performance and assist users with technical issues.
4. Supporting Management
They handle access requests, reducing administrative workload. Security developers also contribute to policy development and provide data reports to senior management.
Key Skills to Look Out for When Hiring Security Engineers
Security builders must be experts in technical and soft skills to perform the job perfectly. The key skill set required for this purpose are:
- Technical skills
- Soft skills
Technical Skills
1. Programming Proficiency
Ability to work with programming and scripting languages, including hands-on experience with tools like PowerShell and OpenSSH for automation and secure connectivity.
2. Operating System Expertise
Deep understanding of various enterprise operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile OS, and IoT platforms, to secure diverse environments effectively.
3. Cybersecurity Knowledge
Familiarity with cybersecurity concepts, methodologies, and industry standards, including secure development practices like DevSecOps and security protocols like SIEM, is also among the security engineer skill sets.
4. Ethical Hacking
Ethical hacking capabilities for simulation and penetration testing to proactively identify vulnerabilities and anticipate potential threats is a key skill to be proficient in.
5. Network Architecture
Experience in handling complex network architectures, including wide area networks, local area networks, wireless networks, and IoT, to recommend security improvements is vital for performing the cybersecurity job accurately.
6. Computer Forensics
Working knowledge of computer forensics, especially about cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, to assist in investigations is important to look out for in the candidate.
Soft Skills
1. Problem-Solving
Software security engineers encounter many problems; therefore, a security developer must be proficient in solving problems by thinking out of the box to develop outstanding solutions.
2. Project Management
This skill enables the security developers to stick to deadlines, set clear expectations for the team, and stay efficient.
3. Communication and Collaboration
The IT security engineer would need to participate in investigations conducted by the internal legal team to determine the cause of the data breach.
Security developers also communicate key outcomes with senior stakeholders and leadership daily. For these purposes, proficiency in communication is key to success. Therefore, security engineers must possess communication skills.
4. Eagerness to Learn
Cyber threats are increasing and advancing daily, so cybersecurity engineers must learn new ways to cope with security issues easily.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Security Engineers
While hiring IT security engineers, organizations make a number of common mistakes that result in the loss of the best candidates. Here, we list these common mistakes you must avoid during hiring.
1. Diverse Hiring Approach
Don’t focus solely on candidates with extensive cybersecurity experience or specific backgrounds. Consider diverse candidates and prioritize desirable qualities.
2. Unique Hiring Process
Recognize that cybersecurity hiring is distinct due to the shortage of qualified candidates. Use cover letters and assessments to evaluate skills effectively.
3. Realistic Entry-Level Expectations
Avoid setting overly high expectations for entry-level hires. Look for candidates with reasonable skills and a strong desire to learn and grow.
4. Enhanced Benefits
Salary alone may not suffice. Improve workforce development programs and training to attract top talent and strengthen your security efforts.
How to Hire a Security Engineer: Choosing the Perfect Candidate
To hire the best security developer, follow these steps.
1. Expand Talent Sources
Look beyond traditional recruitment avenues such as specific schools and majors.
2. Avoid Niche Skill Requirements
Don’t limit candidates by requiring niche skills. Recognize that cybersecurity skills are versatile and apply across various technology interactions.
3. Value Relevant Skills over Formal Education
While hiring security developers doesn’t depend solely on formal education, proficiency in relevant skills brings more success to the company than formal education.
4. Emphasize Team Fit
This is also important to look at while hiring a security developer. Also, focus on the fact that whether the new candidate will make your team stronger or not.
5. Offer Training Opportunities
Provide training to new candidates in order to make them a perfect fit for your organization.
6. Craft Detailed Job Descriptions
Creating a detailed job description is critical for hiring the best fit for the company.
7. Sell the Job
While hiring a security developer, ensure you are properly selling the job by adding sections in the job description that compel the attention of the target candidates.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Security Engineer?
A security engineer’s salary depends on job type, job level, location, education, additional skills, certification, and expertise. The average cost of hiring an entry-level security developer in the US is $94,015, but the cost typically ranges between $80,335 and $112,840.
The average cost of hiring a security programmer in Ukraine and Poland is 5,448 USD with minimum cost of around 3,790 USD and maximum salary of 7,105 USD.
This data shows that hiring a security engineer in Ukraine and Poland is more cost effective as compared to other European countries. Therefore now companies are paying more attention to both these countries when it comes to hiring employees especially those related to IT.
Best Models for Hiring Security Engineers
1. In-House
Overview
They are full-time employees who work specifically for your organization.
Advantages
- Immediate available
- Fully dedicated to the organization
Disadvantages
- Cost more
- May have limited expertise
2. Freelance
Overview
They are remote security engineers who work remotely on various projects.
Advantages
- Cost saving
- Specialized skills
Disadvantages
- May lack dedication
- Security concerns may raise
3. Outsourcing
Overview
It involves a third-party provider with a team of software security engineers of every experience level.
Advantages
- Cost control
- Diverse experience and skill set
Disadvantages
- Loss of control
- Confidentiality concerns
Hiring Remote Security Engineers
Why Hire Security Engineers From Poland or Ukraine?
The reasons you should hire remote security developers from Poland or Ukraine are;
1. Strong Technical Education
Both Poland and Ukraine have a longstanding tradition of strong technical education.
2. Cost-Effective
Compared to Western Europe and North America, hiring costs in Poland and Ukraine can be significantly lower.
3. Cultural Proximity to the West
The culture in both Poland and Ukraine has many overlaps with Western European countries, leading to easier collaboration, understanding, and alignment in business and work ethics.
4. High English Proficiency
The younger generation in both countries often possesses a high level of English proficiency, facilitating seamless communication in international teams.
5. Growing Tech and Cybersecurity Ecosystem
Over the past years, Poland and Ukraine have developed robust tech ecosystems, with many startups, tech events, and communities.
Let RemoDevs Help You Hire Security Engineers
If you are looking for a security engineer who can develop breach detection systems, install firewalls, and all other security tasks, look no further because RemoDevs is here to assist you!
What is stopping you from getting the perfect security engineer services? Contact RemoDevs now and enjoy world-class services without extra charges!
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Founder and Chief Executive Officer at RemoDevs