What Is a Security Engineer? 2026 Career Guide - Coursera

What Is a Security Engineer? 2026 Career Guide Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on Dec 31, 2025 Share Learn about the role of a security engineer and how you can transition into this career. Key takeaways Security engineers implement and monitor security controls to protect an organization’s data from cyber attacks, loss, or unauthorized access.  Internet crime costs more than $16 billion per year, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which received 859,532 reports in 2024 [1]. As a security engineer, you will work in a constantly evolving environment managing new and emerging threats to safeguard your organization, making this position a good option if you enjoy ongoing learning and overcoming challenges. You can become a security analyst, monitoring the systems security engineers build, as part of your career journey.  Learn more about what you can expect on the job as a security engineer, why you might consider a career in security engineering, and how to get started. If you're ready to start training for your security engineering role, consider specializing in the in-demand field of cloud computing by enrolling to earn Google's Cloud Security Engineer Professional Certificate. In as little as two months, you'll master cloud security engineering fundamentals, earn a Professional Certificate for your resume, and simultaneously prepare yourself to pass the Google Cloud Professional Cloud Security Engineer certification exam. Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Security Engineer professional certificate Intermediate level · 2 month(s) Skills you'll build: Application Performance Management, Cloud Infrastructure, Load Balancing, Cloud Security, Containerization, Dashboard Creation, Data Loss Prevention, DevSecOps, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Google Cloud Platform, Identity and Access Management, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Kubernetes, Network Architecture, Network Monitoring, Network Routing, Prompt Engineering, Prompt Engineering Tools, Virtual Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), System Monitoring, Network Analysis, Performance Tuning, Cloud Applications, Cloud Services, Network Performance Management, Prometheus (Software), Data Security, Security Management, Malware Protection, Cloud API, Event Monitoring, Threat Management, Vulnerability Management, Infrastructure Security, IT Automation, Threat Detection, Security Controls, Continuous Monitoring, Network Troubleshooting, Virtual Machines, General Networking, Computer Networking, Service Level, Cloud Storage, Cloud Computing, Cloud Deployment, Application Development, Prompt Patterns, Cloud-Native Computing, Cloud Management, Cloud Platforms, Application Deployment, Application Security, Encryption, Vulnerability Scanning, Key Management, Authorization (Computing), OAuth, Authentications, Hardening, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Web Applications, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Scalability, TCP/IP, Data Access, Problem Management, Data Import/Export, Network Security, Network Planning And Design, Network Infrastructure, Firewall, Network Model, Security Requirements Analysis, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cyber Security Policies, Proxy Servers, Network Administration, Border Gateway Protocol, Wide Area Networks, Multi-Cloud, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Standards, IT Security Architecture, DevOps, Security Engineering, Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards, User Accounts, User Provisioning, Single Sign-On (SSO), Routing Protocols, Private Cloud 4.7 (50,505 ratings) professional certificate Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Security Engineer Advance your career as a Cloud Security Engineer 4.7 (50,505 ratings) 46,682 already enrolled Intermediate level Learn More Average time: 2 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Application Performance Management, Cloud Infrastructure, Load Balancing, Cloud Security, Containerization, Dashboard Creation, Data Loss Prevention, DevSecOps, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Google Cloud Platform, Identity and Access Management, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Kubernetes, Network Architecture, Network Monitoring, Network Routing, Prompt Engineering, Prompt Engineering Tools, Virtual Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), System Monitoring, Network Analysis, Performance Tuning, Cloud Applications, Cloud Services, Network Performance Management, Prometheus (Software), Data Security, Security Management, Malware Protection, Cloud API, Event Monitoring, Threat Management, Vulnerability Management, Infrastructure Security, IT Automation, Threat Detection, Security Controls, Continuous Monitoring, Network Troubleshooting, Virtual Machines, General Networking, Computer Networking, Service Level, Cloud Storage, Cloud Computing, Cloud Deployment, Application Development, Prompt Patterns, Cloud-Native Computing, Cloud Management, Cloud Platforms, Application Deployment, Application Security, Encryption, Vulnerability Scanning, Key Management, Authorization (Computing), OAuth, Authentications, Hardening, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Web Applications, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Scalability, TCP/IP, Data Access, Problem Management, Data Import/Export, Network Security, Network Planning And Design, Network Infrastructure, Firewall, Network Model, Security Requirements Analysis, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cyber Security Policies, Proxy Servers, Network Administration, Border Gateway Protocol, Wide Area Networks, Multi-Cloud, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Standards, IT Security Architecture, DevOps, Security Engineering, Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards, User Accounts, User Provisioning, Single Sign-On (SSO), Routing Protocols, Private Cloud What does a security engineer do? As a security engineer, it’s your job to keep a company’s security systems up and running. This might involve implementing and testing new security features, planning computer and network upgrades, troubleshooting, and responding to security incidents. Security engineers may also be called cybersecurity engineers, information systems security engineers, information security engineers, or network security engineers. Learn more about security engineering from Rob, a professional security engineer at Google, in this lecture from Google's IT Support Professional Certificate: Picture in picture Return to video 0:00 / 1:10 1x Rob at Google discusses what a security engineer does. IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts Google 4.8 (26,059 ratings)  |  540K Students Enrolled Course 5 of 6 in the Google IT Support Professional Certificate Enroll for free What does a security engineer do: Tasks and responsibilities The day-to-day tasks you can expect to perform as a security engineer will vary depending on your company, industry, and the size of your security team. To give you a better idea of what the job entails, here are some tasks and responsibilities found on real security engineer job listings on LinkedIn: Identifying security measures to improve incident response Responding to security incidents Coordinating incident response across teams Performing security assessments and code audits Developing technical solutions to security vulnerabilities Researching new attack vectors and developing threat models Automating security improvements Industry and workplace You’ll work with technology and a range of technical skills as a security engineer. But that doesn’t mean you have to work in a technology company. Reports of internet crime reached 859,532 in 2024, according to an FBI report. Reported losses due to cybercrime exceeded $16 billion [1]. As information security grows in importance across industries, so does the need for security engineers. This means you can find jobs in health care, finance, non-profit, government, manufacturing, or retail, to name a few. Security engineer vs. security analyst: What’s the difference? Both security analysts and engineers are responsible for protecting their organization’s computers, networks, and data. While there might be some overlap in their tasks, these two jobs are distinct.  Security engineers build the systems used to protect computer systems and networks and track incidents. Security analysts monitor the network to detect and respond to security breaches. Many security engineers start out as security analysts.  Why pursue a career in security engineering? As a security engineer, you have the opportunity to create a significant impact at your company. Your efforts can help safeguard your organization’s profits and reputation. You’ll also work in an evolving environment where new threats emerge regularly. This can be an exciting option if you enjoy a challenge and love to learn. Security engineer salary Your deep knowledge of computers, networks, and security best practices is often well-compensated in the world of cybersecurity. Here’s a look at average salaries for security engineers in the US according to several top sites (as of December 2025). Keep in mind that factors such as location, experience, industry, and education can impact how much you make [2, 3, 4]. Glassdoor PayScale Indeed $167,000 $103,545 $127,781 Cybersecurity engineer job outlook Jobs in the cybersecurity sector are projected to grow by 29 percent between 2024 and 2034, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [5]. That’s much faster than the average rate of growth for all occupations.  In many parts of the US, there are more cybersecurity job openings than there are qualified candidates. States like New York, California, Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and Virginia have the biggest cybersecurity talent gaps—so these locations have the most opportunities for those with the right skills [6]. Security engineer career path Security engineers might start off as information security analysts or penetration testers before building the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement security systems. After gaining experience, you may go on to become a security architect, IT security manager, director of security, or even chief information security officer [7].  How to become a cybersecurity engineer Security engineering is typically considered a mid-level IT role. This means that working toward a career as a security engineer means building a strong foundation in both IT and security skills and gaining on-the-job experience. If a career in security engineering is a good fit for you, these are the steps you can take to get there. 1. Develop your cybersecurity skills. Security engineers need a deep understanding of a range of security tools and technologies, as well as an up-to-date view of the threat landscape. Here are some key skills to build through online courses, bootcamps, or cybersecurity degree programs. Coding: Ability to write secure code in languages like Python, C++, Java, Ruby, and Bash means you can automate tasks for more efficient security practices. Networking and network security: Many vulnerabilities are found in networks, so it’s essential that you know how to secure a network architecture. Be sure you’re familiar with routing protocols, encryption, firewalls, and virtual private networks (VPNs). Penetration testing: Penetration tests help you identify weaknesses in current security systems so you can recommend upgrades and fixes. Operating systems: Depending on the organization you work for, you may be tasked with securing environments running on Windows, macOS, or Linux operating systems. Endpoint security: As more and more people work from home, you’ll need to be able to secure endpoints in multiple locations using firewalls and other technologies. Up-to-date knowledge of security trends and hacker tactics: The world of cybersecurity is constantly evolving. Stay ahead of hackers and other bad actors by keeping up with the latest in the industry. Intrusion detection and intrusion prevention systems: While analysts may be the ones monitoring network activity on an IDS or IPS, you should know how they work and how to troubleshoot them. Database platforms: Data is often a company’s most valuable asset. Since it’s your job to protect it, you’ll want to understand how data is structured, stored, and accessed. Workplace skills: As a security engineer, you’ll often need to collaborate with a security team, present findings and recommendations to executives, and encourage good security practices across teams. This means workplace skills like communication, leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration are crucial. Read more: Cybersecurity Glossary: Essential Terms and Definitions Wondering where to start? Consider enrolling in Google's to build foundational cybersecurity knowledge and develop in-demand skills like using Python, Linux, SQL, and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. Google Cybersecurity professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Event Monitoring, Document Management, Network Monitoring, Continuous Monitoring, Threat Detection, Query Languages, Security Controls, Incident Management, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Linux Administration, Authentications, Unix Commands, User Accounts, Command-Line Interface, Relational Databases, Unix Shell, Database Management, Authorization (Computing), AI literacy, Google Gemini, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Interviewing Skills, Branding, Cyber Risk, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Risk Management Framework, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Auditing, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Computer Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Model, Cloud Security, Firewall, Network Architecture, Network Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Algorithms, Computer Programming, Automation, IT Automation, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Scripting, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Programming Principles 4.8 (67,304 ratings) professional certificate Google Cybersecurity Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required. 4.8 (67,304 ratings) 1,504,110 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Event Monitoring, Document Management, Network Monitoring, Continuous Monitoring, Threat Detection, Query Languages, Security Controls, Incident Management, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Linux Administration, Authentications, Unix Commands, User Accounts, Command-Line Interface, Relational Databases, Unix Shell, Database Management, Authorization (Computing), AI literacy, Google Gemini, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Interviewing Skills, Branding, Cyber Risk, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Risk Management Framework, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Auditing, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Computer Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Model, Cloud Security, Firewall, Network Architecture, Network Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Algorithms, Computer Programming, Automation, IT Automation, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Scripting, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Programming Principles 2. Get certified. Getting certified in cybersecurity can help you develop key skills and make yourself more attractive to recruiters and hiring managers. According to Burning Glass Technologies, 60 percent of cybersecurity job listings request at least one certification [8].  Some of the most requested certifications for security engineers include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), CompTIA Security+, and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).  Security engineer certification path Many cybersecurity certifications, including the highly sought-after CISSP, require several years of industry experience to qualify. If you’re just starting out in cybersecurity, consider an early-career credential, like the or . After gaining a few years of experience as a cybersecurity analyst, consider a mid-career certification, like the CompTIA PenTest+, Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). 3. Start with an entry-level IT or cybersecurity position. Many security engineering roles require previous experience in IT and cybersecurity. Many engineers start out in entry-level IT positions before shifting into security as a cybersecurity analyst or penetration tester. Starting in IT can help you gain hands-on experience and build trust within your organization before you take on more security responsibilities. 4. Join an organization for security professionals. Join a professional organization for more opportunities to build your skills and network with other professionals. By networking, you can stay up-to-date with what’s happening in cybersecurity, including new job opportunities that might not get listed on public job boards.  Some organizations to consider include: SANS ISACA CompTIA Center for Internet Security (CIS) (ISC)² IBM and ISC2 Cybersecurity Specialist professional certificate Beginner level · 3 month(s) Skills you'll build: Application Security, Business Continuity, Business Continuity Planning, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Services, Computer Security Incident Management, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Data Storage, Digital Forensics, Email Security, Generative AI, Incident Management, Incident Response, Information Technology, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Peripheral Devices, Security Controls, System Configuration, Cloud Security, Cloud Computing, Cloud Deployment, Cloud-Native Computing, Cloud Storage, DevOps, Microservices, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Serverless Computing, Cloud Platforms, Emerging Technologies, Cloud Engineering, Cloud Infrastructure, Virtual Machines, Cloud Technologies, IBM Cloud, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Firewall, Infrastructure Security, Computer Networking, Network Planning And Design, Network Protocols, OSI Models, Network Model, IT Security Architecture, Data Security, Threat Detection, Data Centers, Cyber Attacks, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Threat Management, General Networking, Disaster Recovery, Crisis Management, Security Management, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Cross Platform Development, Data Storage Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Database Application, Data Strategy, Package and Software Management, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Data-Driven Decision-Making, Generative AI Agents, Systems Development Life Cycle, Other Programming Languages, Software Development Methodologies, Database Management Systems, Cyber Governance, Information Assurance, Risk Management Framework, Governance, Cyber Security Policies, Security Awareness, Data Ethics, Cyber Risk, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Access, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authorization (Computing), Authentications, User Provisioning, Information Systems Security, Identity and Access Management, Encryption, Malware Protection, Hardening, Patch Management, Endpoint Security, Computer Hardware, Operating Systems, Hardware Troubleshooting, User Accounts, Operating System Administration, Software Installation, File Systems, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Computer Architecture, Technical Support, Network Infrastructure, Computer Systems, Mac OS, Linux, Virtualization, Computer Security Awareness Training, Technical Support and Services, Cyber Security Strategy, Wireless Networks, Network Troubleshooting, TCP/IP, Command-Line Interface, Networking Hardware, Local Area Networks, Microsoft Windows, Telecommunications, Network Architecture, Wide Area Networks, IT General Controls (ITGC), Event Monitoring, Network Administration, Information Technology Operations, System Monitoring, Configuration Management, Cyber Operations, Continuous Monitoring, Cyber Security Assessment, AI Security, Exploitation techniques, Vulnerability Assessments 4.7 (15,513 ratings) professional certificate IBM and ISC2 Cybersecurity Specialist Get job-ready to launch your cybersecurity career . Build the information security skills and hands-on experience employers look for in less than 4 months. No prior experience required. 4.7 (15,513 ratings) 25,467 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 3 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Application Security, Business Continuity, Business Continuity Planning, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Services, Computer Security Incident Management, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Data Storage, Digital Forensics, Email Security, Generative AI, Incident Management, Incident Response, Information Technology, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Peripheral Devices, Security Controls, System Configuration, Cloud Security, Cloud Computing, Cloud Deployment, Cloud-Native Computing, Cloud Storage, DevOps, Microservices, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Serverless Computing, Cloud Platforms, Emerging Technologies, Cloud Engineering, Cloud Infrastructure, Virtual Machines, Cloud Technologies, IBM Cloud, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Firewall, Infrastructure Security, Computer Networking, Network Planning And Design, Network Protocols, OSI Models, Network Model, IT Security Architecture, Data Security, Threat Detection, Data Centers, Cyber Attacks, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Threat Management, General Networking, Disaster Recovery, Crisis Management, Security Management, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Cross Platform Development, Data Storage Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Database Application, Data Strategy, Package and Software Management, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Data-Driven Decision-Making, Generative AI Agents, Systems Development Life Cycle, Other Programming Languages, Software Development Methodologies, Database Management Systems, Cyber Governance, Information Assurance, Risk Management Framework, Governance, Cyber Security Policies, Security Awareness, Data Ethics, Cyber Risk, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Access, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authorization (Computing), Authentications, User Provisioning, Information Systems Security, Identity and Access Management, Encryption, Malware Protection, Hardening, Patch Management, Endpoint Security, Computer Hardware, Operating Systems, Hardware Troubleshooting, User Accounts, Operating System Administration, Software Installation, File Systems, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Computer Architecture, Technical Support, Network Infrastructure, Computer Systems, Mac OS, Linux, Virtualization, Computer Security Awareness Training, Technical Support and Services, Cyber Security Strategy, Wireless Networks, Network Troubleshooting, TCP/IP, Command-Line Interface, Networking Hardware, Local Area Networks, Microsoft Windows, Telecommunications, Network Architecture, Wide Area Networks, IT General Controls (ITGC), Event Monitoring, Network Administration, Information Technology Operations, System Monitoring, Configuration Management, Cyber Operations, Continuous Monitoring, Cyber Security Assessment, AI Security, Exploitation techniques, Vulnerability Assessments Explore our free resources Ready to learn more about security engineering or building your skill set? Our weekly LinkedIn newsletter, Career Chat, can help you stay on top of industry trends. Other options to check out include the following: Hear from a fellow learner: Meet the Engineer Strengthening His Leadership Skills Watch on YouTube: Cybersecurity Engineering: High-Paying Tech Career Guide Browse Career Resources Hub: Find Your Cybersecurity Track With Coursera Plus, you can learn and earn credentials at your own pace from over 350 leading companies and universities. With a monthly or annual subscription, you’ll gain access to over 10,000 flexible courses designed to help accelerate your career growth.  Build job-ready skills with Coursera Plus Start 7-day free trial Start 7-day free trial Frequently asked questions (FAQs) How much do security engineers make?‎ Is cybersecurity hard? ‎ Do you need a degree to become a security engineer?‎ Article sources 1.  FBI. "FBI Releases Annual Internet Crime Report, https://www.fbi.gov/news/press-releases/fbi-releases-annual-internet-crime-report." Accessed December 18, 2025. View all sources Updated on Dec 31, 2025 Share Written by: Coursera Staff Editorial Team Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact... This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals. Opt-Out Request Honored Cookies Preference Center Cookies are small text files downloaded to your device via your web browser when you interact with the Site. Coursera and our approved third parties use cookies for the purposes described below under each of the category headings. For more information, please read our Cookies Policy. 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