Role Description

Technical > IT Security Architect

Salary National Average

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117150.0000 129440.0000 167270.0000

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Short Description:

An IT Security Architect is responsible for designing and implementing robust security systems to protect an organization's IT infrastructure from cyber threats. They assess potential security risks, develop security protocols, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. The role involves collaborating with other IT teams to integrate security measures into the organization’s overall technology architecture, as well as staying updated on emerging security trends and technologies. IT Security Architects also conduct regular audits, tests, and vulnerability assessments to identify weaknesses and recommend improvements. Strong technical expertise in security tools and risk management is essential for this role.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • A thorough understanding of the organization's technology and IT systems.
  • Planning, researching, and designing security architectures.
  • Developing, reviewing, and approving the installation requirements for LANs, WANs, VPNs, routers, firewalls, and related network devices.
  • Researching and designing public key infrastructures, certification authorities, and digital signatures, and ensuring all personnel have IT access limited to their need and role in the organization.
  • Developing project timelines for system upgrades and preparing cost estimates.
  • Testing the final security system and updating and upgrading it as needed.
  • Establishing disaster recovery procedures and conducting security breach drills.
  • Responding quickly and effectively to all security incidents and providing post-event analyses.
  • Monitoring and guiding the security team, cultivating a sense of security awareness, and arranging for continuous education.
  • Remaining up to date with the latest security systems, standards, authentication protocols, and products.
     

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

  • Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field. A master’s degree in a relevant discipline is often preferred.
  • Experience: 5-8 years of experience in IT security, including at least 3-5 years in a security architecture or senior IT security role.
  • Security Frameworks and Standards: Expertise in security frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS, and knowledge of regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
  • Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of security technologies such as firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems (IDS), endpoint security, and secure network design.
  • Risk Management and Threat Assessment: Experience in identifying security vulnerabilities, conducting risk assessments, and implementing mitigation strategies.
  • Certifications: Relevant certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), or TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework) are highly valued.
  • Communication and Collaboration: Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams, senior leadership, and external partners while translating technical risks and solutions to non-technical audiences.
  • Problem-Solving and Incident Response: Proven ability to design and implement security solutions, as well as handle security incidents and breaches, ensuring compliance and minimizing impact.

Job Zones

  • Title: Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
  • Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. 
  • Related Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
  • Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
  • Job Zone Examples: Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, chemists, art directors, and cost estimators.
  • Specific Vocational Preparation in years: (7.0 to < 8.0)

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