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Opt Student Cybersecurity Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

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 Aug 12, 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 is an OPT student cybersecurity?

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?

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 does an OPT student in cybersecurity do?

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 cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Opt Student Cybersecurity job openings:
Infographic showing various Opt Student Cybersecurity job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $125,278 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

2027 Technology, Data, AI & Ventures Summer Internship Program - Security Engineer Intern

New York Life Insurance Co

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Location Designation: Hybrid - 3 days per week
Program Overview:
Within the Tech, Data, AI, Ventures (TDAV) organization, our work is guided by a shared vision: deploying the power of technology, data, AI and ventures to accelerate sustainable competitive advantage for New York Life's businesses. We build solutions that power how we serve policy owners, agents, advisors and employees. Grounded in New York Life's culture of long-term commitment, integrity and putting people at the center of what we do, our work reflects a purpose-driven approach to innovation.
We engineer complex systems that translate into measurable business outcomes. Across technology, data, AI, cyber, product, digital experience, architecture and infrastructure, TDAV combines the scale and investment of an industry leader with the opportunity to work with leading-edge technologies and help shape how a world-class financial services company competes in the AI era - all backed by the stability and purpose of a mutual company built to last.
Shape your future with a dynamic internship experience at New York Life. Your internship journey is designed to challenge you through hands-on work experience that will equip you with valuable skills you can use anywhere. You will build your network through collaboration and connection with talented interns and experienced employees through team-building activities, a collaborative intern capstone, and fun social events. By the end of your internship, you'll be equipped with new skills and a network that will propel you forward in your career journey.
What You'll Do:
Focus on developing and maintaining cybersecurity solutions that protect enterprise systems, applications, and data. Assist with monitoring security events, analyzing alerts, investigating potential threats, and strengthening security controls across cloud and on-premises environments. Work with security tools, automation platforms, and threat intelligence resources to improve incident response processes and operational effectiveness. Support secure code changes, configuration improvements, and security assessments to identify and remediate vulnerabilities. Collaborate with cybersecurity, infrastructure, and engineering teams to identify vulnerabilities, enhance security monitoring capabilities, and leverage AI-powered technologies to detect, prevent, and respond to emerging cyber threats.
Required Skills:
  • Undergraduate or Graduate student pursuing a degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field
  • Strong understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals, including network security, network & endpoint threat detection, and incident response
  • Proficiency in at least one scripting or programming language, such as Python, PowerShell, or Bash with an interest in security automation and tool integration

Eligibility Criteria:
  • Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree with an expected graduation date of December 2027 or May 2028
  • Available to work full-time for the entire duration of the 11-week Summer Internship Program (May 25 - August 6, 2027)
  • Able to work in a hybrid environment, with three days per week on-site in New York City
  • Passionate about technology, data, AI, and innovation, with a collaborative mindset and a desire to learn and make an impact

To be eligible for this program, you must be authorized to work in the U.S. We do not offer any type of employment-based immigration sponsorship for this program. Likewise, this program is not available to those authorized to work under optional practical training (OPT) or curricular practical training (CPT).
As part of the Technology, Data & Analytics Ventures (TDAV) Internship Program, this posting represents one of seven specialized internship opportunities: AI Engineer (MLOps), Software Engineer, Data Engineer, Platform Engineer, Security Engineer, Data Scientist, and Analyst. We encourage candidates to explore all available TDAV internship postings and apply for the role(s) that best align with their skills, interests, and career aspirations.
Curious what it's like to intern at NYL? Check out #NYLEarlyCareers on LinkedIn!
#AICampus#LI-CV1
Pay Transparency
Salary Range: $30-35/hour + $3,000 bonus
Overtime eligible: Exempt
Discretionary bonus eligible: No
Sales bonus eligible: No
Actual base salary will be determined based on several factors but not limited to individual's experience, skills, qualifications, and job location. Additionally, employees are eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. In addition to base salary, employees may also be eligible to participate in an incentive program.
Our Benefits
We provide a full package of benefits for employees - and have unique offerings for a modern workforce, including leave programs, adoption assistance, and student loan repayment programs. Based on feedback from our employees, we continue to refine and add benefits to our offering, so that you can flourish both inside and outside of work.Click hereto discover more about our comprehensive benefit options or visit our NYL Benefits Site.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
At New York Life, fostering an inclusive workplace is fundamental to who we are and how we serve our communities. We have a longstanding commitment to creating an environment where individuals can contribute their best and succeed together. This foundation is rooted in our core values of humanity and integrity, ensuring that every employee feels valued and supported. By embracing a broad range of perspectives and experiences, we achieve greater success and fulfill our promise of providing financial security and peace of mind to families across all communities. Click here to learn more about New York Life's leadership in this space.
Recognized as one of Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies, New York Life is committed to improving local communities through a culture of employee giving and volunteerism, supported by the Foundation. We're proud that due to our mutuality, we operate in the best interests of our policy owners. To learn more about career opportunities at New York Life, please visit the Careers page of www.NewYorkLife.com.
Job Requisition ID: 94540
About NY Life Insurance Company
Diversity & Humanity-two values that are deeply rooted in the New York Life culture and have laid the foundation for over 175 years of commitment to our employees, agents, policy owners, and the communities where we live and work. At New York Life you become a valued part of a welcoming, inclusive, and caring culture that has a long-standing legacy in stability and growth. The strength of New York Life revolves around our diversified, multi-dimensional business portfolio that goes beyond life insurance, and we want you to be a part of our legacy.
As a Fortune 100 company and industry leader, we provide an environment where you can explore your career ambitions, offering opportunities to tackle meaningful challenges and stretch your skills while balancing work and life priorities. You will be part of a diverse team guided by our belief to always be there for each other-providing the support and flexibility to grow and reach new heights while making an impact in the lives of others.
You are our future, and we commit to investing in you accordingly.
Visit our Linkedin to see how our employees and agents are leading the industry and impacting communities.
Visit our Newsroom to learn more about how our company is constantly evolving to meet our clients' and employees' needs.
Required Legal Notices - All Candidates Please Click Here