Information security analysts

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.85
Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.81
Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.80
Perform risk assessments and execute tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures.78
Modify computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status.78
Review violations of computer security procedures and discuss procedures with violators to ensure violations are not repeated.76
Document computer security and emergency measures policies, procedures, and tests.74
Confer with users to discuss issues such as computer data access needs, security violations, and programming changes.74
Monitor use of data files and regulate access to safeguard information in computer files.72
Coordinate implementation of computer system plan with establishment personnel and outside vendors.72
Train users and promote security awareness to ensure system security and to improve server and network efficiency.70

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Reading Comprehension75
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Critical Thinking72
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Active Listening69
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 Solving69
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Speaking66
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing63
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Judgment and Decision Making60
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Monitoring60
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Systems Analysis60
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Active Learning56
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

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Operations Monitoring50
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Quality Control Analysis50
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Systems Evaluation50
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies47
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Personnel Resources47
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Social Perceptiveness44
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Negotiation41
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Persuasion41
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Programming41
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Operations Analysis38
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Mathematics31
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Technology Design28
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Troubleshooting28
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Science22
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Equipment Selection19
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Management of Financial Resources19
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources19
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operation and Control19
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Equipment Maintenance16
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Repairing16
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Installation13
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Computers and Electronics84
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language82
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Administration and Management67
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 Technology66
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.
Telecommunications66
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Customer and Personal Service61
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Public Safety and Security57
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Education and Training55
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Mathematics47
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Communications and Media45
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Law and Government43
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Administrative42
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.

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Personnel and Human Resources36
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Design35
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Production and Processing35
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Economics and Accounting32
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Psychology27
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Sociology and Anthropology18
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Mechanical17
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Geography15
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Transportation15
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Sales and Marketing13
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Building and Construction9
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Physics9
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Foreign Language8
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Chemistry6
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Philosophy and Theology5
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
History and Archeology3
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Therapy and Counseling3
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Medicine and Dentistry2
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Biology1
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Fine Arts1
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Food Production1
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Deductive Reasoning75
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning75
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Problem Sensitivity75
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 Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Information Ordering72
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Written Expression72
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Near Vision69
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Category Flexibility63
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Flexibility of Closure60
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Speech Clarity60
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

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Speech Recognition60
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Fluency of Ideas50
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Originality50
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Speed of Closure47
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Far Vision44
The ability to see details at a distance.
Mathematical Reasoning44
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Time Sharing44
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Visualization44
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Finger Dexterity35
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Number Facility31
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Visual Color Discrimination28
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Arm-Hand Steadiness25
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Control Precision22
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Hearing Sensitivity22
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Manual Dexterity22
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Auditory Attention19
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception19
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Extent Flexibility16
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Trunk Strength16
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Dynamic Strength10
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Wrist-Finger Speed10
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Response Orientation3
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Stamina3
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Multilimb Coordination0
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Rate Control0
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time0
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Spatial Orientation0
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers93
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information88
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events82
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards78
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Analyzing Data or Information77
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Processing Information77
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Documenting/Recording Information76
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge76
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates75
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems74
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings73
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others69
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work67
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Thinking Creatively64
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships61
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Developing Objectives and Strategies57
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Performing Administrative Activities57
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information55
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization53
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People52
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others50
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others46
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Developing and Building Teams46
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Training and Teaching Others43
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Coaching and Developing Others42
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Scheduling Work and Activities41
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others40
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources39
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment38
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates36
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials36
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Selling or Influencing Others33
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Staffing Organizational Units32
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment24
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Controlling Machines and Processes23
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public19
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Handling and Moving Objects17
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Assisting and Caring for Others16
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Performing General Physical Activities16
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment9
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment9
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail100
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Integrity98
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Cautiousness93
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Innovation79
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Intellectual Curiosity79
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Perseverance72
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Adaptability70
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Achievement Orientation68
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Initiative68
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Stress Tolerance65
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Self-Control57
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.

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Tolerance for Ambiguity55
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Self-Confidence46
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Leadership Orientation39
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Cooperation36
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Sincerity27
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Social Orientation19
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Empathy11
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Humility5
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Conventional85
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative73
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Realistic43
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Enterprising31
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social19
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Artistic6
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day98%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day89%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day63%
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day65%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others46%
- Contact with others most of the time40%
- Contact with others about half the time14%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually38%
- More than half the time47%
- About half the time15%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important46%
- Very important28%
- Important26%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours62%
- 40 hours31%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom27%
- Some freedom54%
- Limited freedom19%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important40%
- Very important33%
- Important21%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom23%
- Some freedom64%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results39%
- Important results18%
- Moderate results17%
- Minor results16%

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Time Pressure
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day35%
- Once a month or more but not every week49%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious33%
- Very serious18%
- Serious20%
- Fairly serious21%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important13%
- Very important30%
- Important43%
- Fairly important14%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important20%
- Very important26%
- Important37%
- Not important at all16%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day31%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never23%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive33%
- Moderately competitive36%
- Slightly competitive19%
Physical Proximity
- Moderately close (at arm's length)25%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)55%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)18%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually33%
- More than half the time13%
- Less than half the time23%
- Never24%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility18%
- High responsibility24%
- Moderate responsibility16%
- Limited responsibility25%
- No responsibility17%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day22%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
- Never15%
Conflict Situations
- Every day18%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
- Once a year or more but not every month33%
- Never13%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important16%
- Very important18%
- Important19%
- Fairly important29%
- Not important at all17%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually18%
- More than half the time21%
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time18%
- Never28%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a month or more but not every week25%
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
- Never22%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never42%
Spend Time Standing
- About half the time17%
- Less than half the time73%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Moderate responsibility15%
- Limited responsibility35%
- No responsibility36%
Public Speaking
- Once a year or more but not every month53%
- Never27%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated22%
- Slightly automated41%
- Not at all automated31%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- About half the time16%
- Less than half the time67%
- Never17%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day16%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never64%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
- Never63%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never54%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never63%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a year or more but not every month33%
- Never54%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
- Never74%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time54%
- Never41%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month33%
- Never56%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never68%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time40%
- Never58%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time31%
- Never64%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
- Never76%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
- Never66%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never73%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never75%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time27%
- Never73%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never81%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Not important at all90%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)90%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never89%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never95%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never96%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never92%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never99%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Post-baccalaureate certificate
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Web platform development software
Django, Google Angular, Microsoft ASP.NET, Spring Framework
Data base user interface and query software
Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2, Amazon Redshift, Amazon Web Services AWS software, Blackboard software
Transaction security and virus protection software
HP WebInspect, NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software, Portswigger BurP Suite, Stack smashing protection SSP software
Network monitoring software
Nagios, Sniffer Investigator, Symantec Blue Coat Data Loss Prevention, Wireshark
Development environment software
Apache Kafka, Apache Maven, Go, Microsoft PowerShell
Operating system software
Bash, Microsoft Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, UNIX Shell
Data base management system software
Amazon DynamoDB, Apache Hive, Elasticsearch, Oracle PL/SQL
Object or component oriented development software
C#, Perl, Scala, Swift
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Imperva SecureSphere, IpFilter, Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Security Platform, Trend Micro TippingPoint
Network security or virtual private network VPN management software
HP Fortify, Intrusion detection system IDS, Intrusion prevention system IPS, Websense Data Loss Prevention
Business intelligence and data analysis software
Apache Spark, IBM Cognos Impromptu, Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition, Tableau
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle Fusion Applications, Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP software
Configuration management software
Chef, Patch and update management software, Perforce Helix software, Puppet
Internet directory services software
Active directory software, Berkeley Internet Domain Name BIND, Microsoft Active Directory, Network directory services software
Application server software
Docker, GitHub, Oracle WebLogic Server, Red Hat OpenShift
Program testing software
Conformance and validation testing software, MITRE ATT&CK software, Selenium, System testing software
Authentication server software
Diameter, IBM Tivoli Identity Management TIM, Password management software, Remote authentication dial-in user service RADIUS software
Enterprise application integration software
Atlassian Bamboo, Extensible markup language XML, Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services SSIS, Oracle Fusion Middleware
Access software
Access management software, Citrix cloud computing software, IBM Tivoli Access Management TAM
File versioning software
Apache Subversion SVN, Git, WinMerge
Backup or archival software
Backup and archival software, System and data disaster recovery software, Veritas NetBackup
Cloud-based management software
Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation, IBM WebSphere, Splunk Enterprise
Project management software
Atlassian Confluence, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Teams
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, Geographic information system GIS software
Risk management data and analysis software
ArcSight Enterprise Threat and Risk Management, eMASS
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange
Word processing software
3M Post-it App, Microsoft Word
Financial analysis software
Delphi Technology, Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Data base reporting software
Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS, SAP Crystal Reports
Analytical or scientific software
SAS, The MathWorks MATLAB
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Medical software
Epic Systems
Filesystem software
Computer forensic software
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software
Object oriented data base management software
PostgreSQL
Expert system software
Ansible software
Point of sale POS software
Smart card management software
Document management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Clustering software
VMware
Desktop communications software
Secure shell SSH software
Communications server software
IBM Domino
Portal server software
Apache HTTP Server
Customer relationship management CRM software
Salesforce software
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Instant messaging software
Blink
Administration software
Cisco Systems CiscoWorks
Human resources software
Human resource management software HRMS
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Cloud-based protection or security software
Qualys Cloud Platform
Web page creation and editing software
Google Sites
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
Unified modeling language UML
Storage networking software
Amazon Simple Storage Service S3
Industrial control software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Switch or router software
Border Gateway Protocol BGP
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio
Information retrieval or search software
LexisNexis

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Develop computer or information security policies or procedures.
Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.
Implement security measures for computer or information systems.
Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning.
Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
Document operational procedures.
Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.
Monitor the security of digital information.
Train others in computer interface or software use.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Ai Data Annotator
Cyber Defense Analyst
Cyber Security Support Technician
Cybersecurity Analyst (Nof)
Ia Specialist
Information Technology Specialist (Cb)

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology