Guide to Internet of Things (IoT) Jobs & Career Opportunities

The Internet of things (IoT) is the technology that links the internet with physical objects like industrial tools, mobile devices, cars, kitchen appliances, video game consoles, and much more.

With so many devices connected to the internet, the need to protect them via cybersecurity grows each day.

If you want to become a cybersecurity professional, you might consider an Internet of things (IoT) cybersecurity career, which enables you to play a vital role in protecting IoT devices.

What Is Internet of Things (IoT) Cybersecurity?

As the Internet of Things becomes more prominent in our everyday lives, protecting the objects that connect to the internet becomes increasingly important.

Whether people are playing games on their phones, watching smart TVs, managing heating and cooling systems remotely, or using a self-driving vehicle, data and devices must be protected.

IoT cybersecurity ensures that billions of active Internet of things (IoT) and operational technology (OT) devices are safe from cyberattacks.

Why Is IoT Cybersecurity Important?

IoT devices that haven't been properly secured or developed face a variety of cybersecurity threats.

Some threats include service disruptions, theft of data like social security numbers and passwords, and manipulation of services and data.

Cybersecurity for IoT devices is important because it prioritizes continuous device monitoring for threats, enhanced security features, and adherence to IoT and industrial control system (ICS)/OT standards.

By staying on top of threats from cyberattackers, people and businesses can use IoT devices with a feeling of greater security.

Who Are IoT Cybersecurity Professionals?

IoT cybersecurity professionals protect IoT and OT devices and systems from cyberattacks. Let's explore the ins and outs of the IoT cybersecurity profession.

What Do IoT Cybersecurity Professionals Do?

IoT cybersecurity professionals are in high demand as organizations seek experts with experience in protecting their IoT systems. Duties of IoT cybersecurity professionals might include:

• planning and managing security risks for IoT systems
• developing security architectures and roadmaps for IoT networks
• helping to plan security risk management
• ensuring an organization manages all significant security risks
• pinpointing and managing long-term IoT security threats
• sharing progress updates to make sure security measures align with operational needs

It's also common for IoT security experts to stay abreast of the latest trends in cybersecurity to ensure an organization's security needs are always met.

What Background Do IoT Cybersecurity Experts Need?

Depending on the role you assume in the field of IoT cybersecurity. you might need the following background and skills:

• a degree in cybersecurity or a related field
• experience with IoT and its security-related components
• knowledge of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing
• problem-solving skills
• written and verbal communication skills

If you want a more advanced position like the IoT security engineer, you might need the skills above along with certifications like CISSP, CCSP, and/or CISM.

IoT Cybersecurity Jobs

There are a variety of cybersecurity roles available for individuals interested in entering the field of IoT cybersecurity. Here are just a few:

• IoT security specialist
• IoT security architect
• IoT systems administrator
• IoT security engineer
• vulnerability engineer

Additional roles include the IoT infrastructure architect, cloud engineer, and web development engineer.

Steps to Beginning an IoT Cybersecurity Career

Starting a career in IoT cybersecurity is easier than you might think. Let's take a look at the steps you can take to begin.

1: Find an IoT Cybersecurity Program

A great way to get into IoT cybersecurity is to find a certificate or degree program dedicated to these two fields.

For instance, DeVry University offers an online Certificate in the Internet of Things (IoT) that prepares students to secure small enterprise networks and implement mobile device security.

Florida International University's IoT bachelor's degree program helps students prepare for roles in IoT programming, cybersecurity, and hardware design.

It's not always required to find a program that specifically focuses on IoT and cybersecurity. Employers also seek candidates with an IT or computer science degree and experience in IoT and cybersecurity.

Step 2: Obtain IoT Cybersecurity Certifications

Getting certified shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills to perform at a high level.

A couple of cybersecurity certifications that focus on IoT are CTIA's Internet of Things (IoT) Cybersecurity Certification and CertNexus Certified IoT Security Practitioner (CIoTSP).

If you're interested in IoT certification, consider CertNexus' Internet of Things Practitioner and Cloud Credential Council's Internet of Things Foundation Certification.

Cybersecurity certifications include Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).

Step 3: Secure an IoT Cybersecurity Role

After completing your studies in a certificate or degree program and securing one or more related certifications, you're all set to begin your search for IoT cybersecurity jobs.

There are plenty of cybersecurity employers looking for skilled experts with a background in both IoT and cybersecurity.

Search job forums and career websites to find great opportunities. If you need experience to strengthen your resume, consider volunteering for organizations or working on independent projects.

Begin Your IoT Cybersecurity Career Today

Are you ready to start your career in Internet of Things (IoT) cybersecurity? There's no better time to get the education you need, secure the right certifications, and find a great position in the field.