Information Assurance type Carreers

[uomu]

I will graduate next year with a degree in CS and Information Assurance. I'm thinking about what careers are available and I've realized I really don't know what is available. When I try to list the career the only thing which comes to mind is: pen testing, information security, embedded systems, network security, Crypto(like CAs). I have some experience in the field (been going to Defcon for a few years, did my thesis project on an IA subject, etc.)

What are some careers in IA and why do you enjoy doing it?

[noid]

Re: Information Assurance type Carreers

I will graduate next year with a degree in CS and Information Assurance. I'm thinking about what careers are available and I've realized I really don't know what is available. When I try to list the career the only thing which comes to mind is: pen testing, information security, embedded systems, network security, Crypto(like CAs). I have some experience in the field (been going to Defcon for a few years, did my thesis project on an IA subject, etc.)

What are some careers in IA and why do you enjoy doing it?

You should check out the awesome search functionality on this forum.

[AgentDarkApple]

Re: Information Assurance type Carreers

You could also do something like IT auditing (yikes), IT consulting, or even branch out into something like forensics or malware analysis. Take noid's advice and do a search - there was a whole thread related to this.

[hexjunkie]

Re: Information Assurance type Carreers

I will graduate next year with a degree in CS and Information Assurance. I'm thinking about what careers are available and I've realized I really don't know what is available. When I try to list the career the only thing which comes to mind is: pen testing, information security, embedded systems, network security, Crypto(like CAs). I have some experience in the field (been going to Defcon for a few years, did my thesis project on an IA subject, etc.)

What are some careers in IA and why do you enjoy doing it?

Google Fu is not with this one :(

Why do I enjoy it? I answer this with a question, why did you go to school for it?

This is about 10 min of research using google and the DC forums:

Getting Started in the Security Field (Sticky)

Simply Hired Search: Location Independent

Dice.com Search: Location Independant


Information Assurance Career Paths

Information assurance professionals might start in other computer-related careers before advancing up the ladder. Other jobs require similar skills, and some simply provide a solid background in computer protection. A few of these job titles and responsibilities include:
Computer Security Specialist

Many basic duties of a computer security specialist might overlap with those of an information assurance specialist. Security specialists in some organizations plan, coordinate, and implement the organization's information security. Their responsibilities could include educating users on computer security, installing security software, monitoring the network for security breaches, and responding to hacker attacks. Security specialists might also be asked to gather data and evidence for prosecuting a crime. They might work for smaller companies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer security specialists earned a median salary of $42,400 in 2007.
Database Administrators

Database administrators set up computer databases, organize and store data, and test and coordinate changes to the databases. If they are responsible for the design and implementation of the database, they might also be asked to plan and coordinate its security measures. Database administrators, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earned $67,250 in median wages in 2007.
Computer and Information Scientists

Computer and information scientists apply their expertise and innovative techniques to more complex problems of computer software and hardware. They most often work as theorists, researchers, or inventors. They apply a higher level of theoretical expertise and innovation and develop solutions to complex problems relating to computer hardware and software. Those with backgrounds in security might work as security specialists for data recovery situations or in installing custom security software. Computer and information scientists earned a median salary of $97,970 in 2007 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Computer Support Specialists

Computer support specialists do not generally have the training and background needed for information assurance. However, it can be a good launching pad for future specialists. Working in technical support or as help-desk technicians provides outstanding experience in learning various hardware, software, and systems. Support specialists often work as troubleshooters in a business or other organization. Computer support specialists earned a median salary of $42,400 in 2007 according to statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts

Network systems and data communications analysts design and evaluate network systems. Working day to day with network modeling, analysis and planning offers some of the fundamental background needed for advancement into information assurance. They might also be responsible for web site design and creation, including security issues. Network systems and data communications analysts earned a median salary of $68,220 in 2007 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Computer Systems Administrator

A computer systems administrator installs and manages an organization's network or Internet system. They are responsible for maintaining network hardware and software, analyzing problems, and monitoring to make certain it is available to the system when needed. This person is often asked to plan and implement the organization's network security measures. In some organizations, computer security specialists are responsible for the information security. Computer systems managers earned a median annual salary of $108,070 in 2007 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Computer and Information Systems Managers

Computer and information systems managers are more directly involved in overseeing others who work in the system such as network analysts and computer programmers. This means they must determine the personnel and equipment needs of the organization. They are usually in charge of coordinating such activities as upgrading the hardware and software, developing computer networks, and programming the system. Computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $108,070 according to statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Management Information Systems Directors

Management information systems directors manage the information system, which includes applications, networks, personal computers, and hardware and software. This typically involves the planning, organizing and daily support of the system under the supervision of the chief information officer. They might oversee user services such as an organization's help desk.
Project Managers

Project managers develop requirements, budgets, and schedules information technology projects. They work with internal and external clients, vendors, consultants, and computer specialists to coordinate projects from development through implementation. They have become more involved in projects to upgrade information security.
Local Area Network and Wide Area Network Managers

Local area network and wide area network managers can be in charge of everything from setting up the network through managing and updating it. The configuration of the hardware and software used to create the connections falls under this job's function. The larger the network, the more security issues can become a problem. As is true with most of these positions, the job provides extensive knowledge of system setups and the hardware used to operate it. The managers know the network inside and out.

Although all businesses need some type of computer security protection, not all can afford, or need, to hire a full-time information assurance specialist. Therefore, consultants with a detailed knowledge of computer-security programs are in demand. Mid-size companies who deal with online transactions or handle confidential personal information might use these entrepreneurs.

Universities, which have huge amounts of sensitive information stored, are among the prime organizations in need of information assurance professionals. But, they also need professors and researchers to teach and perform research in this area, especially since programs and course offerings have expanded in recent years.

Did You Know?

* As many as 11 million people have victimized by identity theft in a given year
* Between 200 and 300 computer viruses are created each month
* Online thieves who have obtained credit card numbers and other personal information have netted about $500 million from victims in the United States

Licensing and Certification

A license is not needed for a career in information assurance. However, certifications in some technologies might be required. Vendors, some technical colleges, and others often provide these certifications. They usually will last one to four weeks. Many employers, especially government agencies or government contractors may require background checks. Some government agencies may also require a security clearance.


Source: http://www.worldwidelearn.com/online...ance-major.htm

[uomu]

Re: Information Assurance type Carreers

Thanks for all the responses. I probably should have done my due googling first, but I also wanted to hear what your opinions were on these jobs not just job descriptions. Thanks, I certainly have a lot to research now.