5 in-demand cyber-security jobs in Singapore

Cyber-security professionals are in hot demand in Singapore right now – and it’s a reflection of rising cyber-threats across the city-state.

In 2021 Singapore saw significant increases in ransomware, malware and phishing attacks as well as website defacements according to the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore. The CSA has also cautioned that cyber-threats are becoming more sophisticated.

This is seeing an uptick in the number of the business leaders in Singapore who hold serious concerns for the cyber-security of their company.

According to the 2022 Voice of the CISO report, almost seven out of ten (64%) Chief Information Security Officers in Singapore believe their organisation is at risk of a material cyber-attack in the next 12 months, up from 44% in 2021 .

The upshot is that new ways of working including remote work options, and increasing cloud reliance, are putting cyber-security high on company agendas, and this is driving demand IT professionals with cyber-security skills in Singapore.

5 in demand cyber-security roles in Singapore

For cyber-security professionals, Singapore offers a wealth of opportunities.

Here are five popular cyber-security jobs in Singapore to help you choose your career path.

Related: 4 common cyber security interview questions in Singapore

1. Systems Security Architect

The Systems Security Architect is responsible for overseeing the security of a company’s IT network in Singapore. On a daily basis the role involves designing, building, testing and implementing security systems, and monitoring the effectiveness of security measures.

Systems Security Architects are expected to stay up to date with the latest security standards and authentication protocols, and engage best practice security products across an organisation’s entire IT network.

A formal degree is typically required for a Systems Security Architect role in Singapore, often with tertiary qualifications in computer science, information systems or engineering. Having specialist security certifications such as GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) can give candidates an edge.

Candidates applying for a Systems Security Architect role in Singapore are expected to be able to work under pressure, especially when faced with urgent issues.

For more details on Systems Security Architect roles in Singapore, speak to the team at Robert Half.

2. Network Architect

The Network Architect identifies where a company needs data networks, and designs and constructs appropriate networks including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs) and intranets.

A Network Architect is also responsible for managing software upgrades and reviewing hardware such as adapters or routers, to ensure networks are performing at an optimal level with minimum downtime.

A formal degree is typically required for a Network Architect in Singapore, often with tertiary qualifications in Computer Science or Information Systems. Additional professional certifications including CISSP tend to be highly regarded.

In addition to being able to develop and drive IT solutions, a Network Architect needs to be able to establish collaborative working relationships to accomplish objectives, and have strong communication skills to convey complex ideas to non-IT employees.

Related: Network Architect vs System Engineer - what is the difference?

3. IT Security Analyst

An IT Security Analyst reviews a company’s IT systems to recommend and deploy measures that enhance system security. The IT Security Analyst is also tasked with documenting any security incidences, and managing system recovery.

A formal degree is typically required for an IT Security Analyst in Singapore, often with tertiary qualifications in Computer Science or Information Systems. The CISSP certification can be a requirement for IT Security Analysts among some employers in Singapore.

The IT Systems Analyst needs to be able to learn and adapt to new technologies with minimal support and guidance, and have a strong ethical approach to business practices and promotion of workplace integrity.

Related: How to become a Security Architect in Singapore

4. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a senior role that brings responsibility for designing, managing and implementing effective IT security programs and practices to protect the company from internal and external threats.

In today’s environment of rapidly evolving cyber-security threats, a CISO in Singapore is expected to continually review and update a company’s security systems to ensure data and assets are protected at all times, and nurture a company-wide culture of security compliance.

As the CISO is a leadership role, tertiary qualifications are typically required, usually a degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering or equivalent.

Candidates for a CISO role in Singapore are expected to have excellent communication skills with the ability to confidently interact with all levels of staff to convey complex ideas in clear terms.

Related: What Chief Information Security Officer qualifications are vital?

5. IT Auditor

An IT Auditor is responsible for developing a systematic risk-based approach to review a company's IT infrastructure, and ensure all processes and systems are operating efficiently, and meeting compliance standards as they apply in both Singapore and globally.

In addition to planning and managing the audit process, an IT Auditor will evaluate the IT controls supporting business operations, and make recommendations to strengthen the system against security breaches.

Along with suitable tertiary qualifications (usually a degree in Computer Science or Information Systems), IT Auditors can benefit from professional certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).

Candidates considering an IT Auditor role in Singapore need to be able to establish and maintain constructive and objective working relationships with teams across all levels of the organisation, and liaise confidently with external auditors.

If you believe you have the skills to become an IT Auditor in Singapore, contact Robert Half to discuss the opportunities available.

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