Information Security Analysts

Also called : Information Security Officer, Information Security Specialist, Information Systems Security Analyst, Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO), Information Technology Security Analyst (IT Security

What they do

Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

On the job, one would

Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.

Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.

Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.

Perform risk assessments and execute tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures.

Modify computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status.

KNOWLEDGE

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

SKILLS

Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.

ABILITIES

Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

PERSONALITY

People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;

Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.

Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.

Achievement/Effort
Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.

Related Occupations

Computer and Information Systems Managers

Web Administrators

Computer Network Architects

Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

Logistics Analysts

Computer Systems Analysts

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

Validation Engineers

TECHNOLOGY

Access software

Administration software

Analytical or scientific software

Application server software

Authentication server software

Backup or archival software

Business intelligence and data analysis software

Cloud-based data access and sharing software

Cloud-based management software

Cloud-based protection or security software

Communications server software

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Preparation
Considerable Preparation Needed
Education
Four-year bachelor degree
Experience
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupation
Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.