Ethical hacker
Help protect company networks and computers from cyber attacks by using 'hacking' skills for good. Test security like a pro hacker - but with permission.
About the job
What it's like
As an ethical hacker, you'll be responsible for identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in computer systems, networks, applications and infrastructure.
It's your job to protect networks and computers from attacks from unethical hackers, who illegally access computers with the intention of accessing confidential information.
To test the security systems, you'd simulate an 'attack' on a company's system. This is the same way a hacker would, to uncover any weaknesses in the system and give recommendations on how to make it more secure.
Your tasks might include:
conducting penetration testing and vulnerability assessments on systems, networks and applications
analysing security systems and infrastructures
developing and maintaining security procedures
providing recommendations for security enhancements
collaborating with IT teams to implement security measures and best practices
develop ingscripts and tools to automate security testing
Hours
You'll usually work Monday to Friday, but this could vary depending on where you work.
You may need to work outside regular business hours to respond to security incidents or meet deadlines.
Environment
Some tasks can be done remotely or in the office, while others require on-site delivery at client locations.
Travel
You'll normally travel between client sites, and you may occasionally work away from home for some clients.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Digital technologies
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking responsibility
- ethical
- taking initiative
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- written communication
- working with technology
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Foundation Apprenticeship: Hardware and Systems Support
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
A degree could be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects such as:
Ethical Hacking
Computer Science
Cyber Security and Networks
Computer Science with Cyber Security
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Cyber Security
Computing Science
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover MAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Discover GAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Trainee roles
You can become an ethical hacker by applying for a paid trainee role, where you learn on the job without needing previous experience. You can use the My World of Work job search to look for trainee roles.
To be able to pass any security checks or assessments, for example no criminal record.
This is a quickly evolving and expanding area of work, so ongoing training will be needed.
Industry-recognised certificates in ethical hacking or cyber security may be included as part of a course or work-based learning programme or an employer may be willing to support the right employee to gain certification.
Examples of relevant industry qualifications you may see in job adverts include:
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