DevSecOps Engineer vs. Cyber Security Consultant

DevSecOps Engineer vs Cyber Security Consultant: A Comprehensive Comparison

4 min read ยท Dec. 6, 2023
DevSecOps Engineer vs. Cyber Security Consultant
Table of contents

In today's digital age, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. With the increasing number of cyber attacks, organizations are looking for professionals who can help them protect their digital assets. Two roles that have emerged in this space are DevSecOps Engineer and Cyber Security Consultant. In this article, we will compare these roles in terms of their definitions, responsibilities, required skills, educational backgrounds, tools and software used, common industries, outlooks, and practical tips for getting started in these careers.

Definitions

A DevSecOps Engineer is a professional who combines development, security, and operations skills to automate and integrate security into the software development process. They work closely with developers and operations teams to ensure that security is built into the software development lifecycle.

On the other hand, a Cyber Security Consultant is a professional who advises organizations on how to protect their digital assets from cyber threats. They conduct risk assessments, identify Vulnerabilities, and recommend solutions to mitigate risks. They also provide guidance on Compliance with industry regulations and standards.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a DevSecOps Engineer include:

  • Designing and implementing security controls in the software development process
  • Automating security testing and vulnerability scanning
  • Monitoring and analyzing security logs and alerts
  • Conducting security assessments and Audits
  • Providing guidance on security best practices to developers and operations teams
  • Responding to security incidents and performing incident management

The responsibilities of a Cyber Security Consultant include:

  • Conducting risk assessments and vulnerability assessments
  • Developing and implementing security policies and procedures
  • Conducting security Audits and assessments
  • Providing guidance on Compliance with industry regulations and standards
  • Responding to security incidents and performing incident management
  • Developing and delivering cybersecurity awareness training

Required Skills

The required skills for a DevSecOps Engineer include:

  • Strong knowledge of software development methodologies and practices
  • Proficiency in programming languages, such as Python, Java, and JavaScript
  • Knowledge of security controls and frameworks, such as OWASP and CIS
  • Experience with Automation tools, such as Jenkins and Ansible
  • Familiarity with Cloud computing platforms, such as AWS and Azure
  • Ability to work collaboratively with developers and operations teams

The required skills for a Cyber Security Consultant include:

  • Strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices
  • Familiarity with industry regulations and standards, such as PCI DSS and ISO 27001
  • Experience with security tools, such as vulnerability scanners and SIEMs
  • Knowledge of Incident response and management
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects

Educational Backgrounds

A DevSecOps Engineer typically has a degree in Computer Science, software engineering, or a related field. They may also have certifications in DevOps and security, such as Certified DevOps Engineer and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

A Cyber Security Consultant typically has a degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. They may also have certifications in cybersecurity, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).

Tools and Software Used

A DevSecOps Engineer uses a variety of tools and software, including:

  • Version control systems, such as Git
  • Automation tools, such as Jenkins and Ansible
  • Containerization tools, such as Docker and Kubernetes
  • Cloud computing platforms, such as AWS and Azure
  • Security testing tools, such as OWASP ZAP and Burp Suite

A Cyber Security Consultant uses a variety of tools and software, including:

  • Vulnerability scanners, such as Nessus and Qualys
  • Security information and event management (SIEM) tools, such as Splunk and ArcSight
  • Penetration testing tools, such as Metasploit and Nmap
  • Compliance management tools, such as RSA Archer and MetricStream
  • Encryption tools, such as VeraCrypt and BitLocker

Common Industries

DevSecOps Engineers are in high demand in industries such as Finance, healthcare, and technology. They are also increasingly sought after in government and defense organizations.

Cyber Security Consultants are in high demand in industries such as Finance, healthcare, and retail. They are also in demand in government and defense organizations.

Outlooks

The outlook for both DevSecOps Engineers and Cyber Security Consultants is strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of information security analysts (which includes both roles) is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Practical Tips for Getting Started

If you are interested in becoming a DevSecOps Engineer, here are some practical tips to get started:

  • Learn programming languages such as Python, Java, and JavaScript
  • Familiarize yourself with DevOps tools such as Jenkins and Ansible
  • Gain experience with cloud computing platforms such as AWS and Azure
  • Obtain certifications such as Certified DevOps Engineer and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

If you are interested in becoming a Cyber Security Consultant, here are some practical tips to get started:

  • Learn cybersecurity principles and practices
  • Familiarize yourself with industry regulations and standards such as PCI DSS and ISO 27001
  • Gain experience with security tools such as vulnerability scanners and SIEMs
  • Obtain certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Conclusion

In conclusion, both DevSecOps Engineers and Cyber Security Consultants play critical roles in protecting organizations from cyber threats. While there are some similarities between the two roles, they have different responsibilities, required skills, educational backgrounds, and tools and software used. Understanding the differences between the two roles can help you choose the career path that best aligns with your interests and skills.

Featured Job ๐Ÿ‘€
SOC 2 Manager, Audit and Certification

@ Deloitte | US and CA Multiple Locations

Full Time Mid-level / Intermediate USD 107K - 179K
Featured Job ๐Ÿ‘€
Information Security Engineers

@ D. E. Shaw Research | New York City

Full Time Entry-level / Junior USD 230K - 550K
Featured Job ๐Ÿ‘€
Senior Security Engineer

@ Activision Blizzard | Work from Home - CA

Full Time Senior-level / Expert USD 101K - 186K
Featured Job ๐Ÿ‘€
Information Security Manager (Public Service Manager II)

@ State of Maine | Augusta, Maine, United States

Full Time Mid-level / Intermediate USD 79K - 108K
Featured Job ๐Ÿ‘€
Application Security Engineer - Enterprise Engineering

@ Meta | Bellevue, WA | Seattle, WA | New York City | Fremont, CA

Full Time Senior-level / Expert USD 177K - 251K
Featured Job ๐Ÿ‘€
Security Engineer

@ Retool | San Francisco, CA

Full Time Mid-level / Intermediate USD 192K - 254K

Salary Insights

View salary info for Security Consultant (global) Details
View salary info for Cyber Security Consultant (global) Details
View salary info for DevSecOps Engineer (global) Details
View salary info for DevSecOps (global) Details

Related articles