what is a security developer?

As a security developer, you uncover security threats and find resolutions. That means your job revolves around troubleshooting, remedying flaws and debugging. Your programming abilities aim to identify malware and potential threats or create programmes that prevent and resolve security issues. You will develop strategies to avoid cyber attacks and test the organisation's software for malware.

Aside from creating new security technologies, a security developer comes up with security protocols for a company and integrates them into existing software applications. You may work independently or collaborate with other information technology colleagues during the design, testing and implementation phases of security systems.

where are security developers needed?

With your skill and knowledge of cybersecurity issues, you can work for various companies and government agencies. Public organisations and government entities need security developers to secure their data and prevent fraud or data breaches. Private businesses often need to beef up security to prevent cyberattacks that could lead to a breach of privacy and loss of revenue. Top industries that depend on the expertise of security developers are finance, software publishing and computer systems design.

As a security developer, you need to conceptualise threats from various sources or future cyberattacks that may threaten a computer application or system. When you understand the threats, you can develop creative ways of dealing with them.

Would a career in IT and tech as a security developer suit your analytical skills and creativity? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a security developer role.
 

security developer jobs
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average salary of a security developer

According to ONS, the average salary of a security developer in the UK is £39,279 per year. When you are starting, your compensation package is around £22,000 annually. Once you gain a few years of experience in the field, you will have enough skills to earn up to £71,000 per year. Since a security developer job involves working long and unsociable hours, your earnings include overtime pay and bonuses.

how to increase the salary of a security developer

In many industries, a security developer's salary depends on the experience level since hands-on experience in dealing with cybersecurity threats is valuable. At entry-level, you focus on gaining skills since you have minimal transferrable skills. As you gain expertise, your earnings reflect the skills you possess. The industry also influences your compensation package. If you want a high paying security developer position, consider working in information or finance and insurance companies.

Where you live or work also affects your salary. For instance, working in London guarantees a higher income due to the high demand for the profession and the availability of large companies. Some organisations also offer location-based wages that factor in where you live instead of the company location. This is beneficial for remote software developers living in large cities with a high cost of living.
 

Male standing in front of a screen and pointing at data
Male standing in front of a screen and pointing at data
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types of security developers

As a security developer, you utilise all your skills in handling security threats for your employer. However, if you work in a multinational company, you can specialise in the following roles:

  • security software developer: your job is to create security software used in monitoring systems for intrusion, viruses, spyware or malware. You also develop anti-virus and other security applications to protect the computer systems.
  • security analyst: as a security analyst, you assess software, hardware and computer networks' vulnerabilities and find countermeasures to resolve any issues.
  • cybersecurity developer: your job is to identify vulnerabilities in the system and develop high-tech solutions to defend the computer systems from hacking and other types of cybercrime.
     
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working as a security developer

Working as a security developer involves analysing software implementations and creating new applications to resolve security issues. That means you combine technical skills and soft skills to perform your duties and collaborate with others in your work environment.

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education and skills

Some of the routes of becoming a security developer include:

  • university course: as a security developer, you need a degree in a computer-related field like computer science, IT, computer engineering or software engineering. A degree in cybersecurity network technology gives you the background you need in identifying and resolving threats. Completing a master's degree also gives you a competitive advantage for an advanced position in security software.
  • certification: most employers prefer certifications in information security. You can get a certificate as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Some security developers boost their qualifications with credentials in relevant programming languages like Java.

skills and competencies

Skills and competencies of a security developer include:

  • problem-solving skills: as a security developer, problem-solving skills are vital in your daily tasks. You need to develop creative solutions for complex security challenges in existing and emerging technologies. Problem-solving skills help you find ways to address attacks in digital environments.
  • technical aptitude: becoming a security developer is a technology-focused career, and your duties involve maintaining and troubleshooting information systems. You need to be tech-savvy to succeed in your role.
  • attention to detail: preventing data breaches and cyber-attacks needs vigilant and detail-oriented individuals. With attention-to-details, you can identify loopholes in the software and devise ways to beef up security.
  • communication skills: as a security developer, it is crucial to communicate effectively during training to ensure security protocols are implemented as expected.
     
two colleages looking at a mobile phone
two colleages looking at a mobile phone
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FAQs

FAQs about working as a security developer

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