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Opt Student Cybersecurity Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

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Opt Student Cybersecurity information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$41.3K

$125.3K

$183.5K

How much do opt student cybersecurity jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for opt student cybersecurity in Rutherford, NJ is $125,278.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $144,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are OPT Student Cybersecurity roles?

OPT Student Cybersecurity roles refer to positions in the cybersecurity field that are open to international students in the United States who are on Optional Practical Training (OPT) status. These roles allow students with a background in cybersecurity, computer science, or related fields to gain practical work experience in the industry after completing their studies. Typical responsibilities include monitoring networks for security breaches, assisting with incident response, and helping organizations protect their digital assets. OPT students often work as analysts, interns, or junior security specialists in companies looking to bolster their cybersecurity teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an OPT Student in Cybersecurity, and why are they important?

To thrive as an OPT Student in Cybersecurity, you need a solid understanding of network security, risk assessment, and foundational IT knowledge, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in identifying threats and collaborating with teams. These competencies are crucial for protecting organizational data, mitigating cyber risks, and ensuring compliance in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

What is the difference between Opt Student Cybersecurity vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectOpt Student CybersecurityCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsOften includes cybersecurity certifications, ongoing OPT authorizationTypically requires certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, with relevant degree
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level roles, often in tech companies or government agenciesFull-time position in IT or security teams across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by students on OPT seeking cybersecurity roles during their visa periodEmployed by organizations to monitor and protect information systems

Opt Student Cybersecurity roles are often internship or entry-level positions suitable for students on OPT, focusing on gaining practical experience. Cybersecurity Analysts are full-time professionals responsible for safeguarding systems, requiring more experience and certifications. Both roles share similar credentials but differ in scope and employment status.

What types of projects or tasks can an OPT student expect to handle in a cybersecurity role?

As an OPT student in a cybersecurity position, you will likely be involved in projects such as monitoring network activity for potential threats, assisting with vulnerability assessments, and responding to security incidents under supervision. You may help implement security protocols, review logs for suspicious activity, or contribute to security awareness initiatives. Collaboration with IT teams, senior analysts, and sometimes even legal or compliance departments is common, giving you exposure to different aspects of organizational security. These experiences offer valuable hands-on learning and can help you build a strong foundation for a future career in cybersecurity.
What job categories do people searching Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Opt Student Cybersecurity job openings:
Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Opt Student Cybersecurity job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $125,278 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

Versant Academic Year Internships: Creative Operations, Strategy Execution & Cybersecurity

Versant Media

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
VERSANT is a leading force in news, sports and entertainment, and they are seeking interns for their Academic Year Internship Program. Interns will gain hands-on experience in creative operations, strategy execution, and cybersecurity, contributing to meaningful projects within a modern media organization.
Responsibilities:
• help shape a new experience designed to invest in emerging talent and support early career development
• contribute to projects like real-time content workflows, cross-functional integrations, vendor governance, and next-gen security initiatives
Qualifications:
Required:
• Must be actively enrolled in a degree-granting program at an accredited institution during the entire duration of the program OR have a graduation date in Spring 2026. Applicants who graduated in 2025 or earlier are not eligible for our internship program.
• Current class standing of sophomore or above (30 credits).
• Must be available to work 24 hours per week from September 14th 2026 through April 16th 2027.
• Must be willing to work on-site at the New York, NY office.
• Must be presently authorized to work for any employer in the United States and must not require work visa sponsorship from VERSANT now or in the future to retain authorization to work in the United States.
• Candidates currently on any student or exchange visa (e.g. F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, J-1, M-1) are not eligible to apply unless they will be able to change or adjust to another status that grants work authorization without sponsorship from VERSANT.
• VERSANT is an E-Verify company, requiring all employees to have an active Social Security number.
• Any candidate receiving an internship offer must complete I-9 form with Social Security number within 3 days of hire.
Preferred:
• Students with class standing of junior or above preferred
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above
• Strong interest in the media industry
• Previous internship experience and on-campus involvement
Company:
Versant Media is a media company that offers television and digital entertainment services. Founded in 2004, the company is headquartered in Seattle, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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