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SOC 2135 Science, research, engineering and technology professionals

Cyber security professionals Salary

Median salary £54,816 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Cyber security professionals protect organisations from digital threats by designing, implementing and managing security systems, conducting vulnerability assessments, responding to incidents and ensuring compliance with data protection and security standards.

Key responsibilities

  • Designing and implementing cybersecurity controls and architecture
  • Monitoring networks and systems for security threats
  • Conducting vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
  • Responding to security incidents and managing remediation
  • Developing security policies and ensuring regulatory compliance

Qualifications and entry routes

Typically requires a degree in cybersecurity, computer science or a related field. Professional certifications are essential: CISSP, CISM, CEH, CompTIA Security+ and cloud security certifications (AWS Security, Azure Security) are widely recognised.

Career outlook

Exceptional demand with a significant skills shortage. Salaries are rising rapidly. AI security, cloud security and operational technology (OT) security are particularly in-demand specialisms.

Key skills

Network security Threat analysis Incident response Security architecture Compliance (ISO 27001, NIST, GDPR)

Common industries

  • Financial services
  • Technology
  • Government and defence
  • Healthcare
  • Critical national infrastructure

Data coverage

SOC code 2135
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2015–2025
Estimated jobs 27,000

Median Salary

£54,816

Mean Salary

£59,569

Jobs (000s)

27k

Data Years

11 years

Salary Range (2025)

P25: £42,704Median: £54,816P75: £73,083
P10: £32kP25: £43kMedian: £55kP75: £73kP90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Entry Level

£32,302

0-2 years

Mid Level

£42,704

3-7 years

Senior

£73,083

8-15 years

Potential career growth: +126% from entry to leadership

Salary Trend (2015-2025)

Nominal growth: +29.5%Real growth: -6.3%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£54,816

Full-time Only

£54,647

Full-time premium: +£-169