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Entry Level Cyber Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cyber information

See Illinois salary details

$28.6K

$118.3K

$191.4K

How much do entry level cyber jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cyber in Illinois is $118,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,400.00 and $144,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cybersecurity professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cybersecurity professional, you typically need a foundational understanding of networking, operating systems, and security concepts, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with security tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and basic scripting languages is commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong problem-solving skills are essential soft skills for identifying and mitigating security threats. These skills and qualities help ensure robust protection of organizational data and enable effective responses to cybersecurity incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in cyber security, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level cyber security professionals often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving threats, understanding complex security tools, and bridging gaps between technical and non-technical teams. To address these, it's helpful to regularly participate in training sessions, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and practice clear communication when explaining security issues to non-technical stakeholders. Adapting quickly and staying curious will help you grow and succeed in this dynamic environment.

What are entry-level cyber jobs?

Entry-level cyber jobs are positions in the cybersecurity field that require little to no prior professional experience. These roles are designed for recent graduates or individuals transitioning into cybersecurity from a different field. Common entry-level positions include security analyst, IT support specialist, and junior penetration tester. Responsibilities typically involve monitoring networks for threats, assisting with incident response, and helping maintain secure systems. These jobs often require foundational knowledge of IT and security concepts, which can be gained through degrees, certifications, or training programs.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cyber vs Entry Level Network Security?

AspectEntry Level CyberEntry Level Network Security
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA (basic)CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA (basic)
Work EnvironmentIT departments, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesIT departments, cybersecurity firms, government agencies
Industry UsageBroad cybersecurity roles including threat analysis and complianceFocus on protecting network infrastructure and data
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Cyber and Entry Level Network Security roles share similar certifications and work environments, often overlapping in cybersecurity teams. However, Entry Level Cyber roles tend to encompass a broader range of cybersecurity functions, while Entry Level Network Security focuses specifically on safeguarding network infrastructure. Both are suitable starting points for those interested in cybersecurity careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cyber jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Cyber jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Cyber jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Cyber job openings:
Cyber Defense- Cyber Incident Response - Senior Associate

Cyber Defense- Cyber Incident Response - Senior Associate

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Chicago, IL • On-site

$77K - $202K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


PwC rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Industry/Sector
Not Applicable
Specialism
Cybersecurity & Privacy
Management Level
Senior Associate
Job Description & Summary
At PwC, our people in cybersecurity focus on protecting organisations from cyber threats through advanced technologies and strategies. They work to identify vulnerabilities, develop secure systems, and provide proactive solutions to safeguard sensitive data.
In cybersecurity incident management at PwC, you will focus on effectively responding to, and mitigating, cyber threats, maintaining the security of client systems and data. You will be responsible for identifying, analysing, and resolving security incidents to minimise potential damage and protect against future attacks.
Focused on relationships, you are building meaningful client connections, and learning how to manage and inspire others. Navigating increasingly complex situations, you are growing your personal brand, deepening technical expertise and awareness of your strengths. You are expected to anticipate the needs of your teams and clients, and to deliver quality. Embracing increased ambiguity, you are comfortable when the path forward isn't clear, you ask questions, and you use these moments as opportunities to grow.
Examples of the skills, knowledge, and experiences you need to lead and deliver value at this level include but are not limited to:
  • Respond effectively to the diverse perspectives, needs, and feelings of others.
  • Use a broad range of tools, methodologies and techniques to generate new ideas and solve problems.
  • Use critical thinking to break down complex concepts.
  • Understand the broader objectives of your project or role and how your work fits into the overall strategy.
  • Develop a deeper understanding of the business context and how it is changing.
  • Use reflection to develop self awareness, enhance strengths and address development areas.
  • Interpret data to inform insights and recommendations.
  • Uphold and reinforce professional and technical standards (e.g. refer to specific PwC tax and audit guidance), the Firm's code of conduct, and independence requirements.

The Opportunity
As part of the Cybersecurity Incident Management team you analyze complex cybersecurity problems to manage workstreams and develop deliverables. As a Senior Associate, you guide and mentor junior team members while maintaining professional and technical standards to deliver quality client solutions.
Responsibilities
- Build and sustain meaningful client relationships to drive engagement
- Work with team members to enhance operational effectiveness
- Uphold the firm's ethical standards and compliance requirements
- Analyze data to inform decision-making and improve outcomes
What You Must Have
- Bachelor's Degree in Business Application Programming, Computer Engineering, Computer Applications, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Computer and Information Science, Information Technology, Information Security, Management Information Systems, Software Engineering
- 3 years of experience
What Sets You Apart
- Master's Degree preferred
- GIAC certifications including GCFA, GCFE, GREM, GNFA, GCCC, GCIA preferred
- Demonstrating experience with Endpoint Detection and Response tools
- Understanding cloud platforms like Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud
- Applying incident handling processes effectively
- Analyzing common attack techniques and defenses
- Hunting and responding to advanced adversaries
- Utilizing knowledge management systems in technical teams
- Skilled in programming languages such as Python and PowerShell
Travel Requirements
Up to 60%
Job Posting End Date
The salary range for this position is: $77,000 - $202,000. Actual compensation within the range will be dependent upon the individual's skills, experience, qualifications and location, and applicable employment laws. All hired individuals are eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. PwC offers a wide range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401k, holiday pay, vacation, personal and family sick leave, and more. To view our benefits at a glance, please visit the following link: https://pwc.to/benefits-at-a-glance
As PwC is an equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment at PwC without regard to race; color; religion; national origin; sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity); age; disability; genetic information (including family medical history); veteran, marital, or citizenship status; or, any other status protected by law.
PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the future, PwC sponsorship through the H-1B lottery, except as set forth within the following policy: https://pwc.to/H-1B-Lottery-Policy.
Learn more about how we work: https://pwc.to/how-we-work
For only those qualified applicants that are impacted by the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, San Diego County Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act, where applicable, arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with these laws. At PwC, we recognize that conviction records may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship to responsibilities such as accessing sensitive company or customer information, handling proprietary assets, or collaborating closely with team members. We evaluate these factors thoughtfully to establish a secure and trusted workplace for all.

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