Recently, the job market in Spain is undergoing a profound transformation, especially in the cybersecurity sector. This branch of technology is becoming increasingly important since the challenges of online security, mainly in the business field, are increasingly difficult to face, increasing the demand for cybersecurity. This creates a variety of professional opportunities for those who have the necessary knowledge to carry out this type of work.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity encompasses a range of techniques and tools formulated to safeguard computer systems and the sensitive data maintained by organizations. It is a critical aspect of corporate security as it ensures that confidential information, such as customer data, is shielded from unauthorized access. Cybersecurity comprises various disciplines including information security auditing, malware analysis, secure application development, network security, evidence collection, and information security.
The importance of cybersecurity for companies
Cybersecurity is critical for companies, enabling them to safeguard their data and systems against malicious cyberattacks. Hackers can breach a company’s systems to steal sensitive information or corrupt data, leading to severe financial and legal ramifications. Hence, cybersecurity is imperative to ensure the robust security of a company’s systems and data.
Cybersecurity: demand for real employment in Spain
Currently, there is great demand for cybersecurity professionals in Spain, since this discipline is increasingly important in the business field. This trend has been fuelled by the fact that more and more companies are adopting technology to improve their business processes, which in turn has increased the demand for cybersecurity professionals.
Incibe (The National Institute of Cybersecurity) carried out a study indicating that in 2021 Spain had a workforce of close to 149,774 workers in the field of cybersecurity, with an estimated talent gap of 24,119. As a result, the Spanish government has committed to addressing the challenge of identifying, attracting, developing and retaining talent in this area.
To this end, INCIBE has undertaken a process of analysis and diagnosis of cybersecurity talent, aligned with its 2021-2025 Strategic Plan. The objective of this process is to promote and discover cybersecurity talent, as well as develop knowledge on the subject.
The data for 2021 indicates that there were 39,072 professionals seeking employment in cybersecurity, and this is expected to increase to 42,283 in 2024. In the same year, it is estimated that 83,000 professionals will be needed to fill the required positions in the area. This shows the importance of having people with experience and knowledge in this area. However, 40.1% of the companies consulted stated that they often need to relocate talent from other departments to cybersecurity, and only 20% of internal positions receive training or have the necessary knowledge to perform the tasks required.
What types of professional opportunities in Cybersecurity can you find: jobs and salaries in Spain
Currently, there are many professional opportunities in the cybersecurity sector in Spain, such as:
- Information Security Analyst: Responsible for identifying and mitigating security risks in a company.
- Security Auditor: Evaluates and monitors a company’s security systems.
- Security Administrator: Responsible for implementing and maintaining a company’s security protocols.
- Malware Investigator: Analyses malware to determine its source and targets.
- Security consultant: Advises companies on how to improve their security systems.
Salaries in this sector vary significantly, depending on the experience and skill level of the professional. Professionals with extensive experience and technical skills can earn up to €70,000 a year.
What training is required to work in cybersecurity?
To work in cybersecurity, it is necessary to have specific training in the field of computing and information security. In addition, it is advisable to have some prior knowledge in areas such as networks, programming, malware analysis, security auditing, etc.
There is a wide variety of cybersecurity training programs in Spain, including intermediate professional training courses:
- Administration of networked computer systems.
- Microcomputer Systems and Remote Networks.
- Microcomputer Systems and Networks with a speciality in Introduction to Quantum Computing
- Technician in Microcomputer Systems and Networks (Specialization in Video games and Multimedia)
You can also find higher-level professional training courses:
- CFGS in Systems and Network Administration with Cybersecurity profile
- Higher Degree in International Trade + Specialist in New Technologies applied to Business
- Higher Degree in International Trade + Specialist in Data Analytics and Machine Learning
- Higher Level Training Cycle in Telecommunications and Computer Systems.
- Higher Degree Training Cycle in Multiplatform Application Development
With regard to university degrees in Spain, there are not many options currently. There are universities that are pioneers in the field such as the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), the National Distance Education University (UNED), the University of La Rioja (UNIR), the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM), and the European University.
In general, the curriculum is more limited compared to other countries. But you can always do a degree in related careers and specialize with a more specific postgraduate or master’s degree:
- Degree in Cybersecurity Engineering at the Rey Juan Carlos University.
- Degree in Cybersecurity Management is from the Francisco de Vitoria University.
- Degree in Cybersecurity from the International University of La Rioja
- Degree in Online Cybersecurity Engineering at the European University.
- Informatics Engineering
- Telecommunications
- Degree in telematics engineering (networks and internet technologies)
- Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity, at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia
You can search for information about the different universities, degrees, and entry requirements.
It is important that the training you do allows you to obtain an Official Certification for professionals:
- Information Systems Auditor Certification (CISA)
- Cybersecurity Nexus (CSX) certificate, awarded by ISACA,
- CISSP certificate: security and risk management.
- CISM certificate: security management of a company.
- CEH Certificate: identification of vulnerabilities and failures using hacking techniques, but adjusting to the law.
- CRISC Certificate: IT risk identification, assessment, mitigation, and response and monitoring.
These certifications and the entities that issue them are internationally recognized, allowing you to work outside of Spain if you desire.
Conclusion
The cybersecurity sector is undergoing a major transformation in Spain. This is due to the growing demand for specialised professionals since information security has become a priority for most companies. Therefore, cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly attractive profession in the Spanish labour market, with a wide variety of career opportunities and competitive salaries.
