9 of the Highest Paying Cybersecurity Jobs in Atlanta

Cybersecurity is an exciting and ever-changing industry, with tons of opportunity for advancement. But those aren't the only positives. Job growth is climbing, and cybersecurity salaries are too. We looked at career data in the Burning Glass Technologies database to come up with Atlanta's top 9 cybersecurity jobs by salary. These stats reflect the median pay for professionals in the Atlanta area, so you could earn more depending on your industry and expertise. Whether you have years of experience or are looking for entry-level cybersecurity jobs in Atlanta, these high-paying careers belong on your radar.

9. Network or Systems Administrator
Salary: $91,000

Network or systems administrator is one of the highest-paying cybersecurity jobs that won't require a bachelor's degree. In this job, your day-to-day tasks will include configuring network hardware and software, troubleshooting issues, and helping to design network models.

Skills in demand: Systems administration, Linux, Microsoft Active Directory, SQL

Top employers: Paramount Software Solutions, nLeague Services, Horizontal Integration, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

8. Cybersecurity Analyst
Salary: $93,000

Cybersecurity analysts are on the front lines. They're responsible for detecting and responding to threats, as well as implementing security plans and controls. It's a dynamic role that can include anything from penetration testing to sophisticated root cause analysis.

Skills in demand: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Linux, network security

Top employers: Deloitte, SunTrust, Dell, McKesson Corporation

7. Cybersecurity Architect
Salary: $93,000

While analysts test the system, cybersecurity architects focus on building it. They design systems with security needs in mind, and provide guidance on updating existing systems. They also respond to security incidents and implement any needed improvements.

Skills in demand: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), network security, cryptography

Top employers: E-trade, Equifax, Bridgeview IT, Cox Communications

6. Cloud Architect
Salary: $95,000

Cloud architect is one cybersecurity job in Atlanta that's especially on the rise, as more companies use cloud services. This role is similar to a cybersecurity architect, but focuses specifically on cloud computing. Designing cloud environments, creating standards and policies, and troubleshooting are all in a day's work for a cloud architect.

Skills in demand: Oracle, Platform as a Service (PaaS), cloud architecture

Top employers: Capgemini, IBM, Microsoft, Accenture

5. Computer Systems Analyst
Salary: $95,000

Computer systems analysts have a broader role that includes not only cybersecurity, but all hardware and software a company uses. As a computer systems analyst, you'll evaluate new technologies, perform cost-benefit analysis, and recommend system upgrades.

Skills in demand: SQL, project management, Java

Top employers: Accenture, Anthem Blue Cross, SunTrust, Deloitte

4. Senior Software Developer
Salary: $104,000

Senior software developer may not sound like a cybersecurity position, but it actually requires many of the same skills. You'll most likely need to know about cloud and application security. Plus, many programming languages are common to both software development and cybersecurity.

Skills in demand: Java, SQL, C++

Top employers: NCR Corporation, The Home Depot, Incomm, Cox Communications

3. Computer Network Architect
Salary: $117,000

Similar to the other architect positions on our list, a computer network architect focuses on planning and building. In this case, you'll be designing computer networks. You may oversee a team of engineers who are responsible for executing your design. You'll also be responsible for making upgrades and predicting future needs.

Skills in demand: Cisco, routers, Wide Area Networks (WAN)

Top employers: Cox Communications, Verizon Communications, Accenture, Deloitte

2. Information Technology Manager
Salary: $119,000

If you're looking for high-paying cybersecurity jobs, you should definitely be considering management positions. You'll need soft skills, like communication and teamwork, in addition to technical skills. Your daily tasks might include meeting with your staff, budgeting, and training and development.

Skills in demand: Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), project management, Microsoft Project

Top employers: Deloitte, Accenture, Georgia Institute of Technology, KPMG

1. Director of Privacy Compliance
Salary: $130,000

The Director of Privacy Compliance role earns one of the highest cybersecurity salaries in Atlanta. Compliance directors are responsible for high-level decisions, long-term planning, and providing guidance to the company's IT department.

Skills in demand: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), budgeting, project management

Top employers: SunTrust, Vatica Health, Equifax, Kaiser Permanente

There's really no wrong choice when it comes to cybersecurity jobs in Atlanta. From management roles to independent contractors, there's a career path for every professional style. And the great news is, they're all highly paid. It's time to sharpen your skillset and start climbing the ladder — one of these high-paying security jobs could be yours.