IT Security Co-Ordinator

Job Description:

IT security co-ordinators protect their client's data from illegal access, theft and misuse.

Job Category:
IT Industry

What you will do:

In this role you could:

  • assess risks to computer systems
  • develop plans to minimise potential threats
  • design new security systems or upgrade existing ones
  • test and evaluate security products
  • plan how to recover if security breaches happen
  • use ethical hacking to find security flaws
  • investigate breaches
  • make sure procedures meet network security standards
  • create reports for managers and users

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

As well as:

  • analytical thinking skills
  • the ability to use your initiative (drive)
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • complex problem-solving skills
  • excellent written communication skills
  • adaptability skills
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become an IT Security Coordinator, you’ll typically need a combination of education, skills, and experience. While specific subjects may not be mandatory for this role, certain subjects and skills can provide a strong foundation for pursuing a career in IT security coordination. Here’s a list of helpful subjects and skills:

  1. Mathematics: Strong mathematical skills are essential in IT security for tasks such as encryption, data analysis, and risk assessment.
  2. Computer Science: Computer science courses can introduce you to fundamental concepts related to IT systems, networks, and cybersecurity.
  3. Information Technology (IT): A basic understanding of IT concepts, hardware, software, and systems is crucial for IT security professionals. This includes knowledge of computer networks and operating systems.
  4. Science: Depending on the specific area of IT security you’re interested in, knowledge of science subjects like physics and chemistry can be useful, particularly in understanding encryption algorithms and cybersecurity principles.
  5. English: Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are important for IT Security Coordinators who need to document security policies, communicate with stakeholders, and report on security incidents.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University
You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate course in:

  • computing
  • information systems
  • project management
  • business management

Courses with industry placements or summer internships may help you develop your skills.

College
You may be able to apply for a trainee IT security position with a company after doing a Digital Support Services Course (T Level in the UK)

Apprenticeship
You could do a cyber security technologist higher apprenticeship or a cyber security technical professional degree apprenticeship.

This will involve a mix of learning in the workplace and study.

Work
You could start work as an IT support technician after leaving school. Then you can train on the job or get more qualifications.

Direct Application
You can apply to work as an IT security co-ordinator once you have experience in IT management, network engineering or cyber intelligence.

Working Hours and Environment:

Your typical working hours could be variable.

You could work at a client’s business or in an office.

 

Career Path & Progression:

With experience you could move into network management, IT project management or security consultancy.

You could work for the police, security services or specialist law firms who investigate computer crimes.