Cyber Security Resume Sample

Discover effective strategies for crafting resumes tailored to cyber security positions. Access over 20 practical samples, receive expert advice, and explore top-notch examples of resumes specifically designed for information security and cyber security roles.

From identifying vulnerabilities to thwarting hackers, you’re the guardian of information and people’s safety. Now, it’s time to draft a cyber security resume that infiltrates innocuously yet astounds recruiters with its substance.

No need to fret. You’re on the verge of mastering the art of composing an internet security resume that remains impervious to compromise.

This guide on cyber security resumes will unveil:

1. Examples of information security resumes that outshine 9 out of 10 others.
2. Techniques for crafting a cyber security resume that attracts more interviews.
3. Strategies for effectively showcasing skills and accomplishments on an IT security resume.
4. Methods for articulating your experience to secure any cyber security job you desire.

Cyber Security Resume Example

 

Elthon Garcia

Cyber Security Specialist

+1 757 545-9791

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/elthon.garcia

Summary

A Certified Cyber Security Professional with 6+ years of experience leading cyber security teams, protecting confidential data, and developing secure systems. Eager to help QuantumQuest Industries grow by applying my knowledge and expertise in risk management, threat analysis, and network security to safeguard the organization’s sensitive data and ensure compliance with federal regulations. Proven success in leading cybersecurity initiatives that have resulted in an 85% reduction in cyberattack attempts over the last 3 years.

Experience

Cyber Security Analyst

MetaLogic Solutions, Norfolk, VA

June 2014–April 2020

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

• Developed and implemented comprehensive security policies and procedures for safeguarding confidential data against cyber threats.
• Monitored computer networks for security breaches using Splunk SIEM solutions.
• Analyzed system logs to identify suspicious network activity and provided solutions to rectify potential threats.
• Facilitated technical training sessions on cyber security best practices for IT personnel.
• Updated antivirus software and other applications to enhance system protection from malicious software.

Key Achievement:

• Secured 8 company networks from a series of coordinated ransomware attacks.

Network Security Engineer

Nexus Dynamics, Norfolk, VA

June 2010–May 2014

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities:

• Collaborated closely with the IT team to deploy firewalls, antivirus programs, encryption technologies, virtual private networks (VPNs), IDS/IPS systems, etc., ensuring robust defense against external threats.
• Created detailed documentation for installing, configuring, maintaining & troubleshooting all aspects of the corporate network infrastructure including routers & switches using WAN optimization techniques & protocols such as MPLS (Multi Protocol Label Switching).
• Evaluated existing network architecture & identified areas of improvement to maximize efficiency & reduce latency issues while minimizing operating costs associated with networking operations.
• Coordinated with vendors for ordering hardware equipment & software licenses related to various networking projects.

Key Achievement:

• Implemented dual-factor authentication into Nexus Dynamics’ remote access networks resulting in full compliance with HIPAA standards & a reduction in unauthorized access attempts by 70%.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering

University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

August 2006–May 2010

Relevant extracurricular activities

• Member of the Cyber Security Club (organized seminars to raise awareness about potential cyber threats).
• Participated in various coding competitions & hackathons (received the ‘Outstanding Coder Award’ at the Annual Coding Convention).

Academic achievements:

• Dean’s List for three consecutive semesters.
• Graduated with a 3.7 GPA.

Skills

• Cyber-Security: Risk Management, Threat Analysis, Network Security, Incident Response planning, Vulnerability Assessment
• Programming Languages: C++, Java, Python
• Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL
• Operating Systems: Windows, UNIX/Linux
• Security Tools & Technologies: Firewalls, Antivirus programs, Encryption technologies (AES 256-bit), VPNs (VPN concentrator/Palo Alto), IDS/IPS systems
• Soft Skills: Communication skills, Problem solving abilities, Leadership qualities

Certifications

• Certified Cyber Security Professional (CCSP) – International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) – 2020
• CompTIA Network+ – CompTIA – 2018

Awards

• Outstanding Coder Award’- Annual Coding Convention – 2010
• Completion Award – Nexus Dynamics – 2014
• Recognition Award – MetaLogic Solutions – 2018

Memberships

Member of the ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) since 2010

• Organized an online awareness campaign about cyber-security risks which resulted in a 20% increase in membership applications.
• Delivered lectures on Network Security & Incident Response Planning at various conferences & workshops in Virginia.

Languages

• English—Fluent
• Spanish—Advanced

Interests

• Collaborating with local organizations to promote cybersecurity awareness & safety practices.
• Playing chess (certified chess master by the US Chess Federation)
• Watching documentaries & reading books on cyber-security.
• Coding (contributed to open source projects and participate frequently in coding competitions).
• Learning new technologies & keeping up with the latest trends in cyber-security.

What format is optimal for a cyber security resume?

Similar to a routine antivirus scan, hiring managers initially skim through each resume and flag those they wish to revisit. However, in this scenario—

They only dedicate a swift 6-second glance during the initial review.

Failing to capture their attention during this brief scan could promptly terminate your prospects with the company.

Opt for the chronological format.

This format maintains the organization of your cyber security resume akin to a robust security policy framework, appreciated by hiring managers and security agency personnel for its familiarity and clarity.

Here’s how to structure a cyber security analyst resume:

Commence with a compelling IT security resume objective or summary statement.
Detail past experiences, encompassing pertinent cyber security responsibilities and accomplishments.
Present an education section featuring relevant IT and cyber security coursework.
Highlight your cyber cryptography and criminology expertise to sway them in your favor.
Incorporate any cyber certifications, security clearances, and additional sections to distinguish yourself.
Ensure readability by selecting appropriate fonts, utilizing white space effectively, and employing headings to guide readers through various sections of the resume.

If you lack prior experience in cyber security:

Given the relevance of your education section, prioritize it above your work history section.

Should you opt for a Cyber Security Resume Objective or Summary?

If you fail to capture HR’s interest right from the start, they’ll swiftly dismiss your resume like a basic firewall and confine it to quarantine.

So, how do you captivate them?

Craft a highly compelling resume summary or resume objective.

Have experience in cyber crimes or defense?

Opt for a resume summary.

This concise paragraph showcases your top skills and most relevant experiences, often including a standout achievement quantified with numbers.

Here are two examples of cyber security resume summaries:

RIGHT:
Diligent and detail-oriented cyber security analyst with over 3 years of experience with a government security software contractor. Possessing a DoD security clearance, I identified the 2018 Kluxnet virus, safeguarding over 30,000 computers from destruction.

WRONG:
Having worked as an information security analyst for the past three years, I have gained proficiency in filtering out malicious actors. My responsibilities included implementing firewalls, managing access control, quarantining infected machines, and reporting security breaches.

In the wrong example, duties are listed, but without quantifiable achievements, leaving HR uncertain of your effectiveness. In contrast, the right example provides a clear accomplishment backed by numerical data—making it as robust as quantum encryption.

Now, what if your only encounter with viruses is during visits to the doctor for the flu?

No problem!

Utilize a resume objective for entry-level positions in cyber security.

The objective statement on an entry-level cyber security resume communicates your career aspirations. Like the summary, it should emphasize relevant experiences, skills, and achievements.

Here are two examples of entry-level cyber security resume objectives:

RIGHT:
Recent IT graduate with a background in cyber security and extensive coursework in cloud safety, automation, and digital forensics. Eager to leverage my newly-obtained top secret security clearance and 4.0 GPA to pursue a career as a network security engineer at Astoria Tech.

WRONG:
As a recent university graduate, I lack substantial experience in cyber security. However, I am a quick learner and believe I could be a valuable addition to your team.

The wrong example lacks persuasiveness, akin to a Nigerian Prince scam. Conversely, the right one assures the employer that despite being a recent graduate, you possess the capabilities to combat significant threats effectively. Plus, addressing the employer directly is an effective attention-grabbing tactic.

With these tactics, you’ll secure an interview in no time!

How to articulate your experience in cyber security

The field of information security analysis and cyber security positions in the United States is projected to experience a staggering growth of 28% from 2016 to 2026.

That equates to over 28,000 new competitors—

A considerable level of competition.

How can you outshine other candidates?

Craft a work experience section that elevates the importance of your resume (similar to a governmental computer system’s air gap).

Consider these two examples of information security resume samples:

Cyber Security Job Description for Resume—Examples
RIGHT
Cyber Security Analyst
January 2015–December 2018
Hackers With Ethics, New York, NY

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

– Monitored organization’s networks for security breaches and conducted investigations into violations.
– Generated reports documenting security breaches and assessed the extent of damage caused.
– Conducted penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities in systems before exploitation.

Key Achievement

Identified over 350 new viruses and malware within a span of less than 4 years.

WRONG
Information Security Analyst
January 2015–December 2018
Hackers With Ethics, New York, NY

Key Responsibilities

– Removed viruses.
– Cleaned malware.
– Monitored systems.

Similar to a computer without antivirus software, the latter is missing a crucial element—

Specifically tailored cyber security duties and quantifiable achievements, which the former example effectively includes.

But what if you lack paid experience in Cyber Defense League?

Not to fret.

Here’s how to showcase other experiences in a manner relevant to cyber security jobs:

Entry-Level Cyber Security Resume No Experience
RIGHT
Website Consultant
January 2016–December 2018
WordPress Workplace, New York, NY

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

– Analyzed client concerns to determine the most effective methods for defending WordPress sites from potential attacks.
– Conducted regular scans of sites to identify and mitigate malware and security risks.
– Implemented measures to quarantine and remove any identified security issues.

Key Achievement

Successfully secured and monitored over 50 websites, with no major attacks reported.

In this example, you provided consultation services on various aspects of client websites, focusing solely on responsibilities and achievements relevant to an information security job.

 

Is your education section falling short of expectations? It’s possible

Securing passage to a cyber security interview is akin to navigating identity management systems—without the right permissions, entry is denied.

So, how can you obtain access to the cyber security interview?

Whether crafting an IT security manager resume or a junior-level cyber cryptography resume, your education section must deliver.

Here’s how to effectively present your education on your infosec resume:

Cyber Security Analyst Resume Samples—Education Section
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Forensics and Information Security

Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

Relevant Coursework: Network Forensics, Cyber Crime, Database Security, Ethical Hacking, Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Analysis, National Security, Malware Analysis, Network Intrusion Detection.

What if you’re still pursuing your degree?

Include an unfinished degree as follows:

Majoring in Cybersecurity (Cyber Operations Concentration)

Excelsior College, Albany, NY

Expected Graduation: 2021

Relevant Coursework: Cyberattacks and Defenses, Computer Forensics, Cryptography, Risk Management, Web Architecture, Access Control and Intrusion Detection Technology, Security Defense Countermeasures.

Only completed high school?

Most cyber security positions typically require at least an associate degree and/or a valid cyber security certificate. Refer to the job advertisement for specific educational requirements.

If applying for a lower-level position such as a cyber security intern or junior cyber security analyst and you only have a high school diploma, include it like this:

Townsend Harris High School, Flushing, NY

Graduated: 2014

Do not add high school if you hold a completed college degree. If necessary, include it as a secondary entry.

Finally, if your education holds greater relevance than your work history, consider placing the education section at the top.

How to effectively showcase skills on a cyber security resume

You’re aware of your exceptional hacking abilities.

However—

So do all your rival cyber security candidates.

Demonstrate to the recruiter that while they’re all MD5, you’re SHA-3.

But what cyber security skills?

Firstly, compile a fundamental list of cyber security skills encompassing both hard and soft skills.

Hard skills are those acquired through study and practice (e.g., intrusion detection and vulnerability assessment), whereas soft skills are cultivated throughout life (e.g., effective communication).

Information Security Analyst—Skills Section
RIGHT
Proficient in technical assessment and penetration testing [1]
Experienced in designing and implementing security controls [2]
Committed to continuous personal development and enhancing security expertise [3]
WRONG
Data encryption.
Malware detection.
Virus deletion.
The incorrect skills listed here are akin to utilizing your birthday as a password—

Insufficient and easily bypassed.

In contrast, the correct example mirrors their requirements effectively, akin to a keylogger—albeit in a positive sense. It’s tailored precisely to what they seek.

Lastly, remember the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

Larger companies receive numerous applications daily. An Applicant Tracking System is software designed to assist in managing these applications.

HR managers upload resumes into the ATS, which then scans for specific resume keywords provided by the hiring team.

How to Incorporate Additional Sections for an Effective Information Security Resume

You might be tempted to employ unconventional methods to impress the hiring manager and demonstrate your suitability for the cyber security job.

However, taking such risks may not yield favorable results.

Instead, distinguish yourself from the competition by incorporating additional resume sections.

Below are some recommended sections for enhancing an IT security resume:

Cyber Security Resume Sample: Additional Sections
1. Security Clearances

High-level cyber security roles, particularly those in government contracting, often necessitate security clearances. If you possess such clearance, obtained perhaps during your military service, it positions you significantly ahead of other candidates.

Example of a security clearance on a resume:

– Top Secret w/ Sensitive Compartmented Information Clearance 2018 DoD
– Full Scope Polygraph – 2019
– Counterintelligence (CI) Scope Polygraph (CSP) – 2017

2. Certifications

In the cyber security field, certifications often carry more weight than traditional degrees. Consider adding relevant certifications to your resume, such as:

– Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
– Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
– CompTIA Security+
– CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
– CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
– CompTIA Penetration Tester (PenTest+)
– Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
– SANS GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
– Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

3. Volunteer Work

Engaging in volunteer activities, such as assisting a local adult care facility in overcoming a ransomware attack, not only showcases your altruism but also provides valuable experience for your cyber security resume. Focus on experiences relevant to cryptovirology and internet security.

Include any freelance work you’ve undertaken in a separate section.

4. Languages

Given that IT companies operate on a global scale, proficiency in a second language can set you apart. Consider adding your language skills to your resume.

For more insights on crafting an effective resume and determining which sections to include, refer to our comprehensive guides on resume optimization and section categorization.

Explore these resources for further assistance!

What about drafting a cover letter for a cyber security position?

A resume lacking a cover letter is akin to an asymmetric public key devoid of the corresponding private key—

Ineffective.

Attaching a cover letter is imperative, given that more than half of employers assert that a resume alone doesn’t suffice. It’s akin to deploying multiple attack vectors for a powerful one-two punch.

Here’s how to craft cyber security cover letters that resonate:

Commence your IT security officer cover letter with a captivating opening statement.
Articulate why you’re the ideal candidate to address their future cyber challenges.
Elaborate on why this specific company and role align perfectly with your aspirations.
Conclude with a call-to-action as straightforward yet potent as a brute-force attack.