What Is Cyber Engineering?

September 25, 2024

Written by Sarah Shelley

Career Paths

As technology advances and cyber threats become more sophisticated, the demand for professionals who can engineer secure systems has grown significantly. Cyber engineers have a critical role in safeguarding information, infrastructure, and networks from malicious attacks.

Cyber engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of computer science, electrical engineering, and cybersecurity to design and protect complex systems. A degree in cyber engineering, then, equips students with the skills necessary to tackle challenges in both the digital and physical realms. Through a curriculum that covers areas such as programming, network security, cryptography, and hardware design, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how to build and protect secure systems.

Delve into the key aspects of cyber engineering—from academic pathways to career opportunities—and gain insight into what makes this relevant in today’s technology-driven world.

An In-Depth Look at Cyber Engineering

What is cybersecurity engineering, exactly? To understand the significance of cyber engineering, explore both its historical development and dual role as an academic discipline and a professional field.

The Evolution of Cyber Engineering

Cyber engineering has evolved significantly since the early days of computing, driven by the increasing complexity of cyber threats and the need for more sophisticated security measures. Initially, cybersecurity was largely reactive, focused on defending against existing threats. However, as technology advanced, the approach shifted toward proactive measures and integrating principles from electrical engineering, software development, and information security to anticipate and mitigate potential risks. This evolution reflects the growing recognition of the need for engineers who can design secure systems from the ground up (rather than merely responding to breaches after they occur).

Cyber Engineering: Degree vs. Field of Work

Cyber engineering as a degree program provides a structured approach to learning the theoretical and practical aspects of securing digital systems. Students are exposed to a broad range of topics, from cryptography to network security, often with hands-on experience in designing and testing secure systems.

On the other hand, working in the field of cyber engineering requires applying this knowledge in real-world scenarios, where the stakes are high and the environment is constantly changing. Professionals must stay updated with the latest technological advancements and threat landscapes to effectively protect against cyber threats. The degree offers foundational knowledge, while the field demands continuous learning and adaptation.

The Core Components of Cyber Engineering

Cyber engineering is built on a foundation of theories and technologies that enable the design and protection of secure systems. When answering the question of, “What is a cyber engineer?” it’s crucial to understand the core components of the discipline.

Key Theories and Principles

Cyber engineering draws from a range of foundational theories and principles that guide the development of secure systems. These include concepts like cryptography (which ensures data integrity and confidentiality) and network security protocols that protect data as it moves across systems. Another critical principle is risk management, which involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential threats to digital infrastructures.

Essential Tools and Technologies

In the field of cyber engineering, professionals rely on a variety of tools and technologies to implement and maintain secure systems. These include encryption software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems (IDS), which help monitor and protect networks from unauthorized access. Additionally, tools like vulnerability scanners and penetration testing frameworks are critical for identifying and addressing security weaknesses before they can be exploited.

A Beginner's Guide to Entering the Field of Cyber Engineering

Breaking into the cyber engineering realm may seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, it's entirely achievable. The guide below outlines the key steps you need to take, from gaining the necessary education to landing your first job in cyber engineering.

What You Need to Get Started

To begin your journey in cyber engineering, you'll need a combination of foundational knowledge, practical skills, and the right mindset. This includes a solid understanding of computer science basics, a willingness to continually learn, and an interest in problem-solving within the digital landscape. Let's explore each step in detail for building a strong foundation for a successful career in this field.

Step 1: Pursuing the Right Education

The first step in becoming a cyber engineer is obtaining an education. Most professionals in this field hold at least a bachelor's degree in cyber engineering, computer science, or a related discipline. These programs typically cover essential topics such as network security, cryptography, and systems design, providing the theoretical knowledge needed to understand and combat cyber threats.

Step 2: Acquiring Practical Skills

Education alone isn’t enough; you must develop practical skills to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios, too. This can be achieved through internships, lab work, and hands-on projects where you can practice building and securing systems. It is wise to build proficiencies in programming languages such as Python, C++, and Java, as well as familiarity with tools like Wireshark and Metasploit.

Step 3: Gaining Relevant Certifications

Certifications play a central role in validating your skills and knowledge to potential employers. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CompTIA Security+ are highly regarded in the industry. These credentials not only enhance your resume but also provide you with the latest best practices and standards in cybersecurity.

Step 4: Building a Professional Network

Networking is an often overlooked but crucial component of a successful career in cyber engineering. Joining professional organizations, attending industry conferences, and participating in online forums can help you connect with other professionals, stay informed about industry trends, and discover job opportunities. In addition, a strong network can provide mentorship and guidance as you navigate your career.

Step 5: Applying for Your First Cyber Engineering Role

Once you have the education, skills, certifications, and network in place, it’s time to apply for your first role in cyber engineering. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills, and be prepared to discuss your hands-on projects and problem-solving abilities during interviews. Entry-level positions such as cybersecurity analyst, network security engineer, or penetration tester can provide valuable experience as you work toward more advanced roles in the field.

Roles and Responsibilities in Cyber Engineering

Cyber engineering offers a wide range of roles, each with specific responsibilities tailored to different aspects of cybersecurity. What is a cybersecurity engineer and their day-to-day tasks?

Typical Job Titles and Descriptions

In the field of cyber engineering, there are several job titles that professionals may hold, each focusing on different areas of cybersecurity. Common roles include:

Cybersecurity analyst – Responsible for monitoring networks and systems for security breaches, analyzing potential threats, and implementing measures to protect against attacks. They often work closely with other information technology (IT) professionals to maintain security protocols.

Penetration tester (ethical hacker) – Specializes in testing the security of systems by attempting to breach them using various tools and techniques. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.

Network security engineer – Focuses on designing, implementing, and managing security measures for an organization’s network. This role involves configuring firewalls, setting up virtual private networks (VPNs), and ensuring that the network infrastructure is secure.

Security architect – Responsible for designing and overseeing the implementation of security systems to protect an organization’s data and infrastructure. This role requires a deep understanding of both cybersecurity and systems architecture.

Day-to-Day Duties of a Cyber Engineer

The daily duties of a cyber engineer can vary widely depending on the specific role, but some general responsibilities include:

Monitoring and analyzing security systems – Cyber engineers are often tasked with continuously monitoring security systems to detect and respond to any unusual activity. This includes analyzing logs, investigating alerts, and ensuring that security protocols are functioning as intended.

Conducting security audits and vulnerability assessments – Regular audits and assessments are crucial to maintaining the security of systems. Cyber engineers may perform these assessments to identify weaknesses and recommend improvements.

Developing and implementing security solutions – Whether it’s configuring a firewall or developing a new encryption protocol, cyber engineers are responsible for implementing the solutions that keep systems secure. This also involves staying updated with the latest security technologies and practices.

Incident response and mitigation – When a security breach occurs, cyber engineers are on the front lines, responding to the incident and mitigating its impact. This can involve everything from isolating affected systems to conducting a post-incident analysis to prevent future breaches.

Collaboration with other IT teams – Cyber engineers often work closely with other IT professionals, such as software developers and network administrators, to ensure that security is integrated into all aspects of an organization’s IT infrastructure.

Skills and Qualifications for Aspiring Cyber Engineers

Success in cyber engineering requires a blend of technical expertise and soft skills. While technical proficiencies form the foundation of a cyber engineer's abilities, soft skills are equally essential for navigating the complexities of this field.

Must-Have Technical Skills

Programming – Proficiency in languages like Python, C++, and Java for coding and automating tasks

Network security – Knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, IDS, and network protocols to secure networks

Cryptography – Understanding encryption, key management, and digital signatures for data protection

Penetration testing – Skills in identifying and exploiting system vulnerabilities using tools like Metasploit

Incident response – Ability to quickly detect, analyze, and mitigate cyber threats

Soft Skills That Make a Difference

Problem solving – Critical thinking to tackle complex cybersecurity challenges

Attention to detail – Precision in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities

Communication – Ability to explain technical concepts clearly and collaborate with others

Adaptability – Willingness to learn and adjust to new technologies and threats

Teamwork – Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams

What Is the Cyber Engineering Career Path?

A career in cyber engineering offers a vast variety of opportunities, from entry-level roles to advanced positions. Understanding the typical career trajectory can help aspiring professionals plan their path and make informed decisions about their future. So, what is a cyber engineer’s career path like?

Entry-Level Positions to Aim For

Cybersecurity analyst – This entry-level role is focused on monitoring and defending against security breaches. Analysts often work in security operations centers (SOCs), analyzing alerts and implementing security measures.

Network security engineer – This role involves configuring and managing security protocols for network infrastructure, ensuring secure communication and data transfer within an organization.

Penetration tester (junior) – Also known as ethical hackers, junior penetration testers test the security of systems by attempting to breach them. This role is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on problem-solving and vulnerability assessment.

Security consultant (associate) – These cybersecurity professionals provide advice on security measures and assist in developing security policies. This role often involves working with various clients to ensure their systems are secure.

Advancing Your Career: What Next?

Security architect – After gaining experience, you may progress to designing and overseeing the implementation of security systems as a security architect. This role requires in-depth knowledge of both cybersecurity and system architecture.

Cybersecurity manager – Moving into management, you’ll be responsible for leading teams of cybersecurity professionals, developing strategies, and ensuring that security measures align with organizational goals.

Chief information security officer (CISO) – As one of the highest positions in cybersecurity, the CISO oversees all aspects of an organization’s information security, from policy development to incident response. This role requires extensive experience and leadership skills.

Specialized roles – With experience, you may also specialize in areas like cloud security, forensics, or incident response, taking on roles that require deep expertise in specific cybersecurity domains.

Salary Expectations and Job Outlook

A career in cyber engineering is not only intellectually rewarding; it also offers strong financial incentives and a promising job outlook.

Understanding the Financial Rewards

Cyber engineering professionals are among the best-compensated in the tech industry, reflecting their important role in safeguarding digital infrastructure. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for information security analysts (a common role for cyber engineers) was $120,360 as of 2023.

Entry-level positions such as cybersecurity analysts can typically earn around $60,000 to $80,000 per year, while more experienced professionals, like security architects or cybersecurity managers, can command salaries upwards of $150,000 annually. Specialized roles and positions in high-demand areas, such as cloud security or penetration testing, often come with even higher salaries.

Future Trends in Cyber Engineering Employment

The job outlook for cyber engineering is exceptionally strong, driven by the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats. The BLS projects a 33% growth in employment for information security analysts from 2023 to 2033—much faster than the average for all occupations.

This growth is fueled by the continued expansion of digital services, rise of remote work, and growing emphasis on data protection across all industries. Emerging areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in cybersecurity, as well as the increasing adoption of cloud technologies, are expected to further boost demand for cyber engineers.

Comparing Cyber Engineering With Other Cybersecurity Roles

Cyber engineering is a specialized field within the broader domain of cybersecurity, but how does it compare to other roles in the industry?

Cyber Engineer vs. Cybersecurity Analyst

Although both cyber engineers and cybersecurity analysts play critical roles in protecting digital assets, their responsibilities and focus areas differ significantly. Cybersecurity analysts primarily focus on monitoring and analyzing security threats, responding to incidents, and implementing security measures to protect an organization's information systems. They are often on the front lines, dealing with immediate threats and ensuring that existing security protocols are followed. Analysts may also conduct vulnerability assessments and work on improving an organization's overall security posture.

On the other hand, cyber engineers take a more proactive and design-oriented approach. They are responsible for developing and implementing security architectures, designing secure systems from the ground up, and ensuring that these systems are resilient against future threats. Cyber engineers often work on creating the tools and technologies that analysts use to monitor and defend against cyber threats. Their role is more technical and involves a deeper understanding of systems engineering, cryptography, and network security.

Unique Aspects of Cyber Engineering

Cyber engineering stands out in the cybersecurity field due to its focus on the integration of security within the design and development process of digital systems. Unlike roles that primarily react to existing threats, cyber engineers are involved in the early stages of system development—ensuring that security is a foundational component rather than an afterthought. This proactive approach includes designing encryption algorithms, developing secure communication protocols, and implementing robust access controls.

Another unique aspect of cyber engineering is its interdisciplinary nature. Cyber engineers must have a solid grounding in both computer science and electrical engineering that allows them to work on the software and hardware aspects of security. This broad expertise enables them to address a range of security challenges, from securing embedded systems in IoT devices to designing secure network infrastructures.

Learn More About a Career in Cyber Engineering at UC

Take the next step in your cybersecurity career by enrolling in University of the Cumberlands' online master’s degree in cyber engineering. Designed for professionals who want to deepen their technical expertise and lead the charge in securing digital infrastructures, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from cryptography to secure systems design. Plus, with the flexibility of online learning, you can advance your education without putting your career on hold. Request further information today, or apply now to start building the future of cybersecurity!

Career Paths