Cyber-attacks are on the increase, putting companies of all sizes at risk. Against this backdrop, cybersecurity engineers play a vitally important role: they protect IT infrastructures, detect vulnerabilities and implement advanced defence strategies. So what is a cybersecurity engineer? What missions are they given, and what are their skills? How can you get into this profession? This job description gives you a comprehensive overview of the profession, which is essential for organisations’ digital security.
30,331 incidents, that’s the number of cyber attacks reported in Switzerland in the second half of 2023, almost double the figure for the previous year.
Source Federal Office of Cybersecurity (2023)
What is a cybersecurity engineer and why is he or she essential?
Cybersecurity engineers specialise in protecting information systems. Their objective is to guarantee the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data in the face of cyber threats. They monitor networks, detect faults and reinforce the security of digital infrastructures.
Their role is crucial, as a security breach could lead to major financial losses, compromise sensitive data and have a lasting impact on an organisation’s reputation. With cyber-attacks on the rise, investing in information systems protection is becoming a strategic priority that can limit these risks.
4.45 million dollars: that was the average financial cost of a data breach in 2023.
Source IBM, Ponemon Institute (2023)
The main tasks of a cybersecurity engineer
Cybersecurity engineers take action at several different levels to protect infrastructures and anticipate threats. Their expertise is called upon both upstream, as part of efforts to prevent attacks, and downstream, where they can limit their impact.
System and network protection
Securing IT infrastructures is the first barrier against cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity engineers configure firewalls, encrypt sensitive data and set up intrusion detection systems (IDS/IPS).
What are IDS and IPS intrusion detection systems?
IDS (Intrusion Detection System) and IPS (Intrusion Prevention System) are cybersecurity tools that monitor the network in order to detect and block attacks.
– IDS detects suspicious activity and sends alerts, but does not block the attack.
– IPS detects threats and automatically blocks them before they can affect the system.
Together, they enhance security by detecting and stopping intrusions in real time.
Vulnerability analysis
Identifying vulnerabilities before they are exploited by hackers is a key priority. The engineer carries out regular penetration tests (pentesting) and puts patches in place, to reinforce system security.
Implementation of safety and compliance protocols
IT firms must comply with strict standards such as ISO 27001, RGPD or NIST. The engineer defines security policies, monitors how they are applied and makes teams aware of best practices.
See our article ” Educating your teams about cybersecurity” for more on best practices.
Crisis management
When an attack occurs, a rapid reaction is essential. The cybersecurity engineer coordinates the response, analyses the attack, restores data and puts measures in place to stop it happening again.
What makes a good cybersecurity engineer?
This job calls for a fine balance of technical skills, analytical abilities and interpersonal skills. A successful engineer must be able to anticipate threats while supporting teams as they apply best practices.
Technical skills
Mastering security technologies is essential when it comes to protecting information systems. A cybersecurity engineer must have in-depth knowledge in several fields:
- Network and protocol security (TCP/IP, VPN, firewalls) to guarantee infrastructure protection.
- Cryptography and data encryption to secure exchanges and access to sensitive information.
- Web and mobile application security, a major challenge when faced with cyberattacks that target online services.
- Pentesting and vulnerability testing to identify and correct security flaws before they are exploited.
- SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) management to ensure that threats are continuously monitored and to automate incident responses.
Analytical skills
Anticipating cyber threats and assessing risks requires a methodical, structured approach. A cybersecurity engineer must be able to:
- Assess threats and risks by identifying potential security vulnerabilities and proposing appropriate solutions.
- Plan infrastructure security strategies, ensuring that the protection in place is aligned with business needs.
- Be familiar with security frameworks such as MITRE ATT&CK and NIST, which set the benchmark when it comes to countering cyberattacks.
What is a security framework?
A security framework is a guide that helps companies protect their systems against cyberattacks. It sets out best practices and rules for identifying threats, securing infrastructures and reacting rapidly in the event of an incident.
Two of the best-known ones are:
– NIST: provides recommendations for structuring an effective cybersecurity strategy and strengthening system protection.
– MITRE ATT&CK: lists the techniques used by cybercriminals, so that firms are better able to anticipate and stop attacks.
Knowledge of regulations and standards
Companies must comply with strict regulations to protect their own data and that of their customers. Cybersecurity engineers must have thorough knowledge of the main standards in force:
- ISO 27001: international standard for information systems security management.
- GDPR: the General Data Protection Regulation, which governs the use and protection of personal data in Europe.
- NIST: a set of cybersecurity standards defined in the United States, which are used as an international frame of reference.
Essential soft skills
In addition to technical skills, a good cybersecurity engineer needs to possess personal qualities that will enable them to be efficient and responsive in their work:
- A rigorous and methodological approach, to analyse vulnerabilities and implement suitable security measures.
- Responsiveness and composure to manage incidents quickly and limit their impact.
- Pedagogy to raise employee awareness of best practices and reinforce the corporate culture as regards cybersecurity.
- Be a good team player, so they can collaborate with other IT departments and guarantee optimal security across all infrastructures.
How do I become a cybersecurity engineer?
Demand for cybersecurity engineers is extremely high right now, not least because of the increase in cyberthreats and the increasingly stringent data protection regulations. To get into this profession, it is essential to undergo specialist training and acquire recognised certifications.
Training
To become a cybersecurity engineer, there are several academic paths and specialist courses that can help you acquire the necessary skills. Universities and engineering schools offer special curricula, from Bachelor’s degrees to Master’s, with teaching focused on IT systems protection, cyber threat management and regulatory compliance.
For example, the École Nationale Supérieure d’Ingénieurs de Bretagne Sud (ENSIBS) offers courses dedicated to IT and cybersecurity, as well as cyberdefence. These programmes cover a wide range of expertise, including:
- Network security: protecting infrastructures against intrusions and malicious attacks.
- Cryptography: encryption techniques for securing data exchanges.
- Risk management: assessing and preventing cyberthreats.
- Regulatory compliance: compliance with international standards such as ISO 27001 and the GDPR.
In Switzerland, renowned institutions such as the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Zurich (ETH Zurich) offer first-rate training in cybersecurity. The curricula they use enable students to acquire advanced technical expertise, while developing the analytical and strategic skills that are essential when it comes to anticipating and countering modern cyber threats.
Useful certifications
In addition to university degrees, professional certifications are highly recommended, as a means of validating and reinforcing cybersecurity skills. Among the most widely recognised certifications are:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Issued by (ISC)², this certification attests to in-depth expertise in information systems security. It is considered one of the most prestigious in the sector, and is recognised internationally.
- CompTIA Security+
Offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), this certification validates basic IT security skills and is often seen as a gateway to more advanced certifications.
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), this certification focuses on information security management, and is ideal for those seeking positions of responsibility.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
This certification, issued by the EC-Council, is aimed at professionals wishing to specialise in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.
These qualifications not only enhance technical skills, but also improve candidates’ employability in a sector that is constantly evolving. They attest to an ongoing commitment to professional excellence and mastery of best practices in cybersecurity.
In short, becoming a cybersecurity engineer requires solid training, complemented by recognised certifications, in order to meet the growing demands of companies in terms of information systems protection. To find out more, read our article: “How to get trained in cybersecurity“.
What kind of salary can a cybersecurity engineer command?
The Swiss cybersecurity sector offers attractive remuneration packages, reflecting the growing demand for these experts. Salaries vary depending on a person’s experience, specific skills and geographical location.
Factors affecting salary:
- Location: regions such as Zurich, Geneva and Lausanne are major hubs for IT professions, where higher salaries are often offered.
- Specialisation: cybersecurity experts with specific skills, in areas like application security or incident management, can enjoy higher remuneration.
- Level of responsibility: management positions, such as Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM), offer higher salaries, reflecting the increased responsibilities involved.
What are the career prospects for a cybersecurity engineer?
Once they have gained experience, cybersecurity engineers can progress to strategic and specialised positions. To advance in this way requires team management skills, along with knowledge of the regulations and the ability to adapt to constantly evolving threats.
Opportunities for development:
- Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM): defines and implements security strategy, ensuring that data is protected and the regulations are complied with.
- Cybersecurity consultant: advises organisations about best practices, carries out audits and proposes appropriate solutions.
- Cybersecurity architect: designs and supervises the implementation of security solutions, to enhance the protection of IT infrastructures.
- Incident Response Specialist: detects, analyses and manages cyber-attacks, to minimize their impact on the organisation.
Sectors and companies recruiting cybersecurity engineers in Switzerland
Faced with an increase in cyber threats, many sectors in Switzerland are actively seeking cybersecurity experts to strengthen their protection.
Main recruiting sectors:
- Information technology (IT): companies specialising in IT are constantly on the lookout for talent, to secure their infrastructures and those of their customers.
- Finance and banking: financial institutions that handle sensitive data invest heavily in cybersecurity to protect their customers’ information and comply with strict regulations.
- Healthcare: with the digitisation of medical records, healthcare establishments need experts to safeguard the confidentiality and integrity of patient data.
- Industry and energy: critical infrastructures such as power grids and factories require enhanced protection from potential cyber attacks.
Key regions in Switzerland:
- Zurich and surrounding area: considered the main hub for IT professions, Zurich offers numerous opportunities in cybersecurity. The city is home to specialist companies, renowned academic institutions and research centres dedicated to IT security.
- Geneva and Lausanne: these cities are also major centres for professionals specialising in cybersecurity, with growing demand. They are home to international organisations, technology companies and initiatives such as the CyberPeace Institute in Geneva, which promotes security in cyberspace.
- Lugano: although less well known in the media, Lugano is renowned for its specific opportunities in the field of cybersecurity, thanks in particular to the presence of innovative companies and specialised academic programmes.
The diversity of sectors and regions in Switzerland offers cybersecurity engineers a wide range of career opportunities. To gain a better understanding of the challenges and solutions involved, read our article: “Cybersecurity at SMEs: what practical solutions can be put in place?
Why choose Qim Info for your career?
Qim Info is a major player in digital services, offering unique opportunities to IT security professionals wishing to work in a stimulating and innovative environment.
What Qim Info has to offer:
- Assignments that are varied and stimulating
Our consultants work on a wide range of projects in finance, industry, healthcare and telecommunications. They deal with issues such as critical infrastructure protection and web application security.
- Development and training
Qim Info focuses on developing the skills of its employees, offering them support from day one to help them realise their ambitions.
- A collaborative and dynamic environment
With over 600 IT experts, there is great synergy between our teams as they work on multidisciplinary projects, encouraging exchange and innovation. We put people and service at the heart of our approach.
- Opportunities in Switzerland and France
With operations in Switzerland (Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, Basel) and France (Annecy), Qim Info offers an international working environment.
Interested in a career in IT? Discover our opportunities on Qim Info – Careers.
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