The SOC Analyst Job Application Process is Broken

Becoming an SOC analyst is often viewed as the gateway to a career in cyber. Many aspiring professionals see it as the easiest entry point into this lucrative field. While entering the SOC can lead to a prosperous future, the application process isn't as easy as you might think.

The SOC Analyst Job Application Process is Broken.

My Journey as a Cybersecurity Analyst

Let me share my journey into the world of cyber.

I enjoyed a successful career in cyber with a significant income. At least, to me, it felt like I had more money than I could ever spend. However, money alone didn't bring me happiness. Eventually, I sought something meaningful in my life. I was disillusioned by my previous role as a SOC Consultant, which felt monotonous and uninspiring. I often compared my situation to Sisyphus, who endlessly pushes a boulder up a hill only to have it roll back down.

Curved lines, almost scribbles, making out a person pushing a boulder up a hill. Around a recreation tangle (rectangle) with triangles at perpendicular edges. Someone's journey.

This myth encapsulated my feelings of futility in my job. After having traveled extensively and accumulated material possessions, I realized that living a fulfilling life was all that mattered. Thus, I made a bold decision to leave a $185,000-a-year SOC job.

How Much Does a SOC Analyst Make?

Salaries can vary greatly depending on location and cost of living. Here are some insights based on my experience in Cumming, Georgia.

SOC Analyst Career Trajectory Example

Here’s a quick glimpse of my salary progression as a SOC Analyst:

• 2013: $55k/year as an entry-level SOC analyst

• 2014: $75k/year after 1.5 years at a different company

• 2015: $105k/year as a Sr. SOC Analyst

• 2016: $135k/year as a Sr. Security Engineer

• 2018: $135k/year plus $25k in RSUs as a Sr. Security Engineer

• 2020: $160k/year as a Cybersecurity Architect

• 2020: $140k/year plus a 10% bonus as a Cyber Advisor

• 2021: $185k/year as a SOC consultant

  
  

As you can see, starting salaries in the Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) sector are typically lower, ranging from $60k to $80k. However, permanent positions within a company's internal SOC offer starting salaries from $80k to $100k.

It is essential to accept that you might not be able to go headfirst into an exotic specialty, and need to start cyber however you can, even if that means accepting a contract role.

Why SOC Analyst Jobs Are Accessible

There are three keys to why SOC analyst roles are the most accessible entry-level jobs in cyber:

1. Many individuals use the SOC to begin their cyber career. Consequently, backfill positions open up.

   
   

2. SOCs must operate all day, every day, requiring constant staffing. High SOC turnover, especially for overnight positions, leads to new job openings.

   
   

3. Staffing can be complicated due to geographic limits and FedRamp regulations, leading to additional recruitment challenges.

   
   

For many, the SOC remains the best entry point into cyber. Yet, if you're ready for more specialized roles, don't hesitate to explore those options.

The SOC Analyst Job Application Process is Broken

If you aim to secure a SOC job by 2026, prioritize networking. The hiring process is notably broken. Many job seekers use AI to enhance their resumes, leading to multiple applications from the same candidate just to be seen.

Hiring managers are inundated with job applications, filling their inboxes with thousands of applications. It's a DDoS! They often favor referrals and existing connections over cold applications because cold applications are impossible to evaluate.

With thousands of aspiring SOC analysts vying for attention, differentiating yourself is essential. You have control over your narrative and cannot change the competition of SOC analysts.

Essential Networking Strategies

To effectively network, consider these tactics:

• Attend two in-person meetups each month.

• Make daily appearances in relevant online communities.

• Write two blog posts per week on Medium.

  
  

A strong network can propel your career to new heights.

A Note to Your Future Self

As you navigate your career, begin collecting contacts and building your email list. This will prove invaluable in a future where AI and entrepreneurship shape the job market.

In summary, while the SOC analyst job application process has its challenges, you can position yourself for success in the cybersecurity field with the right strategy.

Let us help you with that. Our course SOC Analyst NOW!, SOC JOB NOW!, and Cloud Security NOW! is the trifecta that can set you apart. Explore our course offerings here.