Welcome back, my aspiring cyberwarriors! So many of you have written me about the difficulties of finding an entry-level job in cybersecurity that I thought I should offer you some of my insights. At this moment in history, artificial intelligence (AI) is making it particularly difficult to find that entry-level job as companies are using […]
The post How to Find an Entry-Level Job in Cybersecurity first appeared on Hackers Arise.
Welcome back, my aspiring cyberwarriors!
So many of you have written me about the difficulties of finding an entry-level job in cybersecurity that I thought I should offer you some of my insights. At this moment in history, artificial intelligence (AI) is making it particularly difficult to find that entry-level job as companies are using AI to fulfill these tasks.
Here are my thoughts on the best approach to landing that first job in cybersecurity!
The best way to get a starting level job in cybersecurity is to combine industry certifications, hands-on skills development, networking, and relevant IT experience or education.
Step #1. Build Foundations and Skills
- Study the basics: Networking, operating systems (especially Linux), system administration, scripting (e.g., Python), and security fundamentals. You can gain this background from my books Linux Basics for Hackers, Network Basics for Hackers and my upcoming, Python Basics for Hackers.
- Use free online resources, cybersecurity blogs (such as Hackers-Arise.com), YouTube (David Bombal, Yaniv Hoffman, Network Chuck), for practical, hands-on labs.
- Learn basic programming—while not always required, scripting helps with automation and troubleshooting.

Step #2. Get Industry-Recognized Certifications
- Start with CompTIA Security+ — the most respected entry-level cert; many entry-level jobs list it as a requirement.
- Consider Network+ for networking fundamentals, or more specialized options like SSCP, GCIH.
- Certifications signal employers you know security basics and are serious about the field.
Step #3. Pursue Hands-On Experience
- Apply for IT/help desk, junior admin, or tech support roles—these are common stepping stones into security.
- Take on internships, volunteer for IT/security projects, or contribute to open-source security initiatives. There are multiple open-source projects where you can gain hands-on experience without going through the hiring process. This indicates a strong commitment to cybersecurity and can help get past the “no experience” threshold. Hackers-Arise always has multiple open-source projects in our discord server.
- Build a personal “home lab” environment to practice tools and attacks in a legal, safe manner. You can accomplish this inexpensively and without needing an Internet connection using VmWare or VirtualBox.
Step #4. Network and Get Involved
- Attend local security meetups, online communities (Reddit, LinkedIn, Twitter), and conferences to build professional connections. This can also include the Hackers-Arise Discord server and community.
- Connect with cybersecurity practitioners for insight, mentorship, and potential referrals.

Step #5. Tailor Your Resume and Apply Broadly
- Document hands-on skills, home lab work, certifications, and transferable skills from any IT roles.
- Customize your resume for each job and be ready to explain your skills and learning journey in interviews.
- Explore entry-level roles such as SOC analyst, junior pentester, security technician, and IT support with a security focus.
Summary
- Certifications + hands-on learning = fastest path to entry-level roles.
- Network and build connections in the security community—it’s often who you know that helps get a foot in the door.
- Apply even if you don’t meet every listed requirement: employers want passion, constant learning, and initiative in entry-level candidates.
This blended approach maximizes your chances of breaking into cybersecurity quickly, even without prior professional experience.
The post How to Find an Entry-Level Job in Cybersecurity first appeared on Hackers Arise.
Source: HackersArise
Source Link: https://hackers-arise.com/how-to-find-an-entry-level-job-in-cybersecurity/