The shift towards remote work has opened up countless opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. However, landing a remote position, especially as a less seasoned professional, can be challenging. Here’s a guide to help you become a strong candidate for remote cybersecurity roles, covering essential skills, resume and LinkedIn updates, and other actionable steps.
Top Remote Cybersecurity Careers: Cloud Security, Security Engineering, GRC, Pentesting
Cloud Security Engineer
What is a Cloud Security Engineer?
A cloud security engineer is responsible for safeguarding infrastructure, platforms, data, and applications hosted in public, private or hybrid cloud environments. They:
Architect and implement security solutions to monitor and protect cloud workloads against threats.
Proactively identify vulnerabilities and recommend fixes to strengthen defenses.
Investigate security incidents, contain attacks, and initiate remediation steps.
Define security requirements and compliance controls aligned to organizational policies and industry regulations.
Why Become a Cloud Security Engineer?
Critical Role: They are essentially cybersecurity defenders for the cloud, which today powers a majority of businesses. Their expertise is mission-critical.
Growth Potential: As per Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be over 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally in 2025. A fifth of these roles could be for cloud security experts.
High Salaries: Average salaries for cloud security engineers range from $91,000 to $115,000 per year. Specialists with over 7-10 years of experience can earn as high as $200,000 annually.
Rewarding Work: Cloud security engineers enjoy exciting and meaningful work safeguarding critical systems and data from adversaries. They also get opportunities to continuously learn and innovate.
Career Options: Starting as a cloud security engineer can open doors to other coveted roles like Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Educational Background
Aspiring cloud security engineers typically pursue one of the following educational paths:
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity serves as the baseline qualification for most entry-level cloud security roles today. Coursework areas like networking, systems administration, risk management, identity access management (IAM), cryptography, and compliance provide a well-rounded foundation. Hands-on exposure to programming and scripting languages is also valuable. Python in particular is ubiquitously used for cloud automation and orchestration tasks.
Master’s Degree
Although not strictly necessary, an advanced degree such as a Master’s in Computer Science gives you an edge, especially when competing for senior cloud security engineering positions. A graduate degree allows you to specialize through electives focused explicitly on topics like cloud infrastructure security, DevSecOps, containerization platforms, and other adjacent domains. The research and technical skills you build also help in investigating incidents, assessing the risk landscape, and keeping updated with the state-of-the-art.
Develop Technical and Business Skills
Beyond formal education, intentionally develop skills in domains like:
Cloud platforms: Attain expert-level fluency in AWS, Azure, Google Cloud or other major providers.
Infrastructure-as-Code: Learn Terraform, Ansible, Chef or Puppet.
Containerization: Understand Docker, Kubernetes and container security concepts.
Compliance frameworks: Know essential regulations like PCI DSS, HIPAA, GDPR and ISO 27001.
Scripting: Master Python, PowerShell, Bash and other languages to automate security controls and processes.
Monitoring and analytics: Become adept at using cloud access security brokers (CASB), cloud workload protection platforms (CWPP) and leading tools.
Business and communication skills: Build capabilities to effectively collaborate across teams, translate technical details to business needs and clearly communicate risk. This ability to bridge the gap between security and business is invaluable.
Gain Relevant Experience
With a degree in hand, the next imperative step is gaining direct hands-on experience. Aim to get broad exposure to the security domain for 2-3 years before specializing explicitly in cloud security. Here are typical roles through which cloud security engineers evolve:
Entry-Level Security Roles
Starting out as a security analyst, IT auditor, or identity and access management (IAM) specialist allows you to familiarize yourself with foundational concepts. You get opportunities to use security tools, work on projects and collaborate with experts, building your knowledge, skills, and network.
Security Administrator
The next natural transition is into an intermediate security administrator or SOC analyst position. Here you apply your learning working directly with prevention, detection, and response security tools on a daily basis. These 2-3 years build proficiency in investigating threats, assessing risk, and hardening defenses.
DevSecOps Engineer
Modern cloud environments extensively leverage infrastructure-as-code (IaC) techniques for provisioning and managing resources. As a DevSecOps engineer, you insert security into development pipelines ensuring security best practices are followed through the entire lifecycle. This role provides great experience with public cloud platforms and demonstrates your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Mid-Level Cloud Security Engineer
After accumulating at least 3-5 years of experience spanning different facets of security, you become qualified for mid-level cloud security engineering roles. As an established cloud security engineer, you will architect cloud-based solutions, apply deep knowledge of cloud security services and stay on top of emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
Advancement Opportunities
From here, with 7+ years of experience, you can explore specialized security engineering roles in threat intelligence, forensics or security operations centers focusing explicitly on cloud environments. Senior cloud security engineers also have exciting leadership opportunities to progress into roles like Principal/Lead Engineer, Chief Cloud Security Officer or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Pursue Industry Certifications
Relevant cybersecurity and cloud certifications serve as stamps of approval showcasing your expertise to recruiters and hiring managers. They validate your knowledge by requiring you to pass proctored exams testing your competence in key domains.
Here are some of the most valued credentials aligned specifically to a career in cloud security:
CCSP
The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) credential offered by (ISC)² verifies your proficiency across six domains spanning cloud governance, compliance, cloud architecture, operations, and incident response. It covers multi-cloud concepts applicable across AWS, Azure, and GCP making it one of the most versatile cloud security certifications.
Cloud Platform Specific
Each major provider also offers role-based and specialty certifications evaluating your skills in securing workloads and data managed by their specific cloud:
Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate: Validates Azure security skills.
Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer: Proves GCP security administration competence.
Additional Certifications
Other great supplemental options aligned to technologies commonly used in cloud environments include:
Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
ISACA Certifications (CISA, CRISC, CISM)
The most effective strategy is attaining platform-specific cloud security certification along with vendor-neutral credentials like CCSP or CISSP.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Cloud Security Journey
Step 1: Research Cloud Security and CSPs
Start by doing your research on various aspects of cloud security such as companies offering cloud security services, tools used by cloud security engineers, and different cloud service providers. This will help you design your learning roadmap.
Step 2: Choose a Cloud Platform
There are three major CSPs (AWS, Azure, and GCP). Research which CSP is in high demand by most companies and the skill sets required by hiring managers. Choose one to focus on initially, such as AWS, which is highly adopted by companies.
Step 3: Understand the Engineering Process
Learn cloud fundamentals and concepts such as the Shared Responsibility Models in each CSP, IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), serverless, IAM, compute, networking, and databases. Build and deploy mini applications or cloud resources before learning their security services.
Step 4: Obtain Certifications
Consider vendor-neutral certifications like Certified Cloud Security Engineer (CCSE), Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), and CompTIA Cloud+. Additionally, obtain CSP-specific certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, and Google Cloud Engineer.
Step 5: Specialize in a Niche
Specializing in a specific role within cloud security can help you narrow your applications for specific gigs and roles. Potential niches include Cloud Identity and Access Management (IAM) Specialist, Cloud Incident Responder, Cloud Security Analyst, Cloud Compliance Specialist, Cloud Security Engineer, Cloud Security Architect, Cloud Security Content Engineer, Cloud Threat Detection Engineer, Cloud Threat Researcher, Cloud Security LLM & GenAI Engineer, Cloud Security Sales Engineer, and DevSecOps Engineer.
Step 6: Create Your Brand
Create an online presence through technical YouTube videos or blog content on platforms like Medium, Hashnode, or Dev.to. Stay active on LinkedIn and connect with professionals in cloud security. Build and showcase cloud security projects on GitHub.
By focusing on these areas and following these steps, you can enhance your profile and increase your chances of securing a cloud security position. Remember, persistence and continuous learning are key to thriving in this competitive field.
Security Engineering
What is a Security Engineer?
A security engineer designs, builds, and maintains IT security solutions to protect an organization's data and systems from cyber threats. They focus on building secure systems, identifying potential vulnerabilities, and implementing protective measures.
Develop and enforce security policies and procedures.
Implement and manage security tools and technologies.
Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests.
Respond to and mitigate security incidents.
Collaborate with other IT professionals to ensure comprehensive security across the organization.
Why Become a Security Engineer?
High Demand: With the increase in cyber threats, organizations are in dire need of professionals who can safeguard their systems.
Lucrative Salaries: Security engineers are among the highest-paid professionals in the IT industry.
Challenging Work: The role involves solving complex problems and staying ahead of cybercriminals.
Career Growth: This role can lead to advanced positions like Security Architect or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Educational Background
Aspiring security engineers typically pursue degrees in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. Key areas of study include networking, systems administration, cryptography, and ethical hacking.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity serves as a solid foundation. Courses in networking, systems administration, cryptography, and ethical hacking are essential.
Master’s Degree
While not mandatory, a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field can provide an edge for senior roles. Specializing in areas like advanced cryptography, network security, or security management can be beneficial.
Develop Technical and Business Skills
Beyond formal education, intentionally develop skills in domains like:
Programming: Learn languages such as Python, C++, and Java.
Networking: Understand network protocols, firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems (IDS).
System Administration: Gain experience with Linux and Windows servers.
Security Tools: Familiarize yourself with tools like Wireshark, Metasploit, and Nessus.
Business Skills: Develop the ability to communicate technical details to non-technical stakeholders.
Gain Relevant Experience
With a degree in hand, the next imperative step is gaining direct hands-on experience. Aim to get broad exposure to the security domain for 2-3 years before specializing explicitly in security engineering. Here are typical roles through which security engineers evolve:
Entry-Level Security Roles
Start in entry-level roles such as IT support or network administration to build a foundation. Progress to roles like security analyst or SOC analyst, where you can gain hands-on experience with security technologies and incident response.
Intermediate Security Roles
Transition into roles such as security administrator or security operations center (SOC) analyst. Here, you'll apply your learning directly with prevention, detection, and response security tools. These 2-3 years build proficiency in investigating threats, assessing risk, and hardening defenses.
Advanced Security Roles
After accumulating significant experience, move into more specialized roles such as security architect, where you'll design and implement security solutions, or security manager, where you'll oversee security operations and teams.
Pursue Industry Certifications
Certifications validate your skills and knowledge. Some recommended certifications include:
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
CompTIA Security+
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Security Engineering Journey
Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree
Earn a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity.
Step 2: Gain experience in IT or networking roles
Start in entry-level IT roles to build a foundation. Positions like IT support, network administration, or helpdesk roles provide valuable experience.
Step 3: Obtain relevant certifications
Certifications like CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+, and CISM validate your skills and knowledge.
Step 4: Apply for entry-level security positions
Look for roles such as security analyst, SOC analyst, or security administrator to gain hands-on experience.
Step 5: Continuously update your skills and knowledge
Stay current with the latest security trends, technologies, and certifications. Participate in continuous learning through courses, webinars, and industry conferences.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)
What is GRC?
GRC encompasses the strategies, processes, and tools that organizations use to manage governance, risk, and compliance. It ensures that an organization meets regulatory requirements, manages risks, and aligns its operations with business objectives. GRC professionals:
Develop and enforce compliance policies and procedures.
Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies.
Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
Conduct internal and external audits.
Collaborate with various departments to ensure comprehensive compliance and risk management.
Why Pursue a Career in GRC?
Critical Role: Ensuring compliance and managing risk is essential for any organization.
High Demand: Companies need professionals to navigate complex regulatory environments.
Career Growth: GRC roles can lead to positions like Chief Risk Officer (CRO) or Chief Compliance Officer (CCO).
Rewarding Work: Contributing to an organization's integrity and operational efficiency is highly fulfilling.
Educational Background
A degree in business administration, law, finance, or a related field is beneficial. Key coursework includes risk management, business ethics, and regulatory compliance.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, law, or a related field provides a solid foundation. Courses in risk management, business ethics, and regulatory compliance are essential.
Master’s Degree
While not mandatory, a master's degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field can provide an edge for senior roles. Specializing in areas like risk management, compliance, or business law can be beneficial.
Develop Technical and Business Skills
Beyond formal education, intentionally develop skills in domains like:
Risk Management: Understand risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
Compliance: Gain knowledge of regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, and SOX.
Audit Skills: Learn how to conduct internal and external audits.
Communication: Develop skills to communicate policies and procedures effectively.
Gain Relevant Experience
With a degree in hand, the next imperative step is gaining direct hands-on experience. Aim to get broad exposure to the GRC domain for 2-3 years before specializing explicitly in governance, risk, and compliance. Here are typical roles through which GRC professionals evolve:
Entry-Level GRC Roles
Start in roles like compliance analyst or internal auditor. These positions provide experience in monitoring compliance, conducting audits, and managing risks.
Intermediate GRC Roles
Transition into roles such as risk manager or compliance manager. Here, you'll apply your learning directly by developing and enforcing compliance policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements.
Advanced GRC Roles
After accumulating significant experience, move into more specialized roles such as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) or Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), where you'll oversee the entire GRC program of an organization.
Pursue Industry Certifications
Certifications enhance your credibility in the field. Recommended certifications include:
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)
Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM)
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your GRC Journey
Step 1: Obtain a relevant bachelor's degree
Earn a bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, law, or a related field.
Step 2: Gain experience in roles related to compliance or risk management
Start in entry-level roles like compliance analyst, internal auditor, or risk analyst to build a foundation.
Step 3: Acquire relevant certifications
Certifications like CISA, CRISC, CIPP, and CRCM validate your skills and knowledge.
Step 4: Apply for GRC-specific positions
Look for roles such as risk manager, compliance manager, or internal auditor to gain hands-on experience.
Step 5: Stay updated on regulatory changes and continuously enhance your skills
Stay current with the latest regulatory changes, industry trends, and best practices in GRC. Participate in continuous learning through courses, webinars, and industry conferences.
Pentesting
What is Pentesting?
Pentesting, or penetration testing, involves simulating cyberattacks on a system, network, or application to identify vulnerabilities. Pentesters, or ethical hackers, use their skills to find and fix security weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. They:
Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests.
Identify security weaknesses in systems, networks, and applications.
Develop and implement strategies to remediate identified vulnerabilities.
Document findings and provide recommendations to improve security posture.
Stay updated on the latest hacking techniques and security threats.
Why Become a Pentester?
High Demand: As cyber threats increase, the need for skilled pentesters grows.
Exciting Work: The role involves problem-solving and staying ahead of cybercriminals.
Career Growth: Opportunities include senior pentester, security consultant, and security researcher roles.
Lucrative Salaries: Pentesters are well-compensated for their specialized skills.
Educational Background
A degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or information technology is beneficial. Courses in networking, systems administration, cryptography, and ethical hacking are essential.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or information technology serves as a solid foundation. Courses in networking, systems administration, cryptography, and ethical hacking are essential.
Master’s Degree
While not mandatory, a master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field can provide an edge for senior roles. Specializing in areas like advanced cryptography, network security, or ethical hacking can be beneficial.
Develop Technical and Business Skills
Beyond formal education, intentionally develop skills in domains like:
Networking: Understand network protocols and architectures.
Operating Systems: Gain proficiency in Linux and Windows environments.
Programming: Learn languages such as Python, C, and JavaScript.
Security Tools: Familiarize yourself with tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap.
Reporting: Develop skills to document and communicate findings effectively.
Gain Relevant Experience
With a degree in hand, the next imperative step is gaining direct hands-on experience. Aim to get broad exposure to the security domain for 2-3 years before specializing explicitly in pentesting. Here are typical roles through which pentesters evolve:
Entry-Level Security Roles
Participate in hands-on platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe to build practical skills. Start in entry-level security roles such as IT support, network administration, or security analyst to build a foundation.
Intermediate Pentesting Roles
Transition into roles such as junior pentester or security consultant. Here, you'll apply your learning directly with vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and reporting. These 2-3 years build proficiency in identifying and remediating security vulnerabilities.
Advanced Pentesting Roles
After accumulating significant experience, move into more specialized roles such as senior pentester, security researcher, or security consultant, where you'll conduct advanced penetration tests, develop security strategies, and lead pentesting teams.
Pursue Industry Certifications
Certifications demonstrate your expertise and dedication. Recommended certifications include:
Practical Junior Penetration Tester (PJPT) by The Cyber Mentor
Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) by Hack The Box
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Pentesting Journey
Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree
Earn a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, cybersecurity, or information technology.
Step 2: Gain experience through hands-on platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe
Participate in hands-on platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe to build practical skills.
Step 3: Obtain relevant certifications
Certifications like PJPT, CPTS, CEH, and OSCP validate your skills and knowledge.
Step 4: Apply for entry-level security positions
Look for roles such as junior pentester, security consultant, or security analyst to gain hands-on experience.
Step 5: Continuously update your skills and participate in cybersecurity communities
Stay current with the latest hacking techniques, security threats, and best practices in pentesting. Participate in continuous learning through courses, webinars, and industry conferences.
