fed2civ

GS-2221 Cybersecurity Learning and Development (For DHS use only) Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Cybersecurity Learning and Development (For DHS use only) (GS-2221) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.

GS Level Mappings

Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.

GS Level Group Corporate Titles Responsibilities Salary Range
1-4 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Analyst, Junior Security Consultant, IT Security Trainee Assists in basic cybersecurity operations under supervision; learns foundational knowledge about cybersecurity principles and practices; supports team with documentation and administrative tasks. $45,000 - $60,000
5-7 Cybersecurity Analyst, Associate Cybersecurity Specialist, Information Security Coordinator Conducts risk assessments and vulnerability testing; assists in developing cybersecurity training materials; monitors network security and responds to incidents collaboratively with senior staff. $60,000 - $80,000
8-9 Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Educator, Training and Development Specialist - Cybersecurity Designs and implements cybersecurity training programs; develops educational materials for employees; evaluates training effectiveness and updates programs based on feedback and changing technologies. $80,000 - $100,000
10-11 Cybersecurity Program Manager, Cybersecurity Training Manager, Information Assurance Manager Oversees development and execution of cybersecurity training initiatives; manages a team of analysts and trainers; collaborates with other departments to align training with organizational goals and compliance requirements. $100,000 - $130,000
12-13 Lead Cybersecurity Analyst, Director of Cybersecurity Training, Cybersecurity Policy and Training Officer Leads a comprehensive cybersecurity training strategy; manages projects related to employee security awareness; advises executive leadership on emerging trends and technological developments in the field. $130,000 - $160,000
14-15 Senior Director of Cybersecurity Programs, Chief Cybersecurity Officer (CCO), Cybersecurity Strategy Executive Shapes the organization's cybersecurity vision, strategy, and training; liaises with senior executives and regulatory bodies; ensures compliance with industry standards and fosters a security-aware culture across the organization. $160,000 - $200,000
SES Executive Director of Cybersecurity Initiatives, Senior Vice President of Cybersecurity, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Drives the overall strategic direction of the organization’s cybersecurity efforts; engages with the board on security risks and compliance; represents the institution in public forums and at industry events. $200,000 - $250,000

Transferable Skills

Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.

  • • Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices
  • • Ability to develop and deliver training materials
  • • Experience with instructional design methodologies
  • • Technical writing skills for creating manuals and documentation
  • • Proficiency in using learning management systems (LMS)
  • • Experience in assessing training needs and evaluating program effectiveness
  • • Skills in project management for coordinating training initiatives
  • • Understanding of adult learning theories
  • • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences
  • • Collaboration and teamwork skills for working with various stakeholders
  • • Familiarity with compliance standards and regulations (e.g., NIST, FISMA)
  • • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a cybersecurity context
  • • Ability to conduct workshops and hands-on training sessions
  • • Skill in utilizing virtual training tools and platforms
  • • Cultural competence to address diverse learning needs

Certifications & Education

Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

    The CISSP certification demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity principles and practices, making it highly regarded in the civilian sector. Obtaining this certification can significantly enhance a candidate's credibility and marketability, as it equips them with skills necessary to design, implement, and manage a cybersecurity program.

  • CompTIA Security+

    CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level certification that validates foundational cybersecurity skills and knowledge essential for various roles in the civilian workforce. As organizations increasingly prioritize security, having this certification can provide a solid baseline for further specialization in cybersecurity roles.

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

    The CEH certification focuses on identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in systems and networks, equipping individuals with a crucial offensive perspective on cybersecurity. This skill set is highly sought after in the civilian sector, particularly for positions in penetration testing and security assessments.

  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

    CISM focuses on managing and overseeing an organization’s information security program, combining technical skills with management principles. This strategic blend is valuable for leadership roles in the civilian sector, enabling professionals to bridge the gap between technical teams and executive management.

  • CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)

    CySA+ emphasizes behavioral analytics and threat detection, bridging the gap between IT and security teams. This skill is increasingly vital in the civilian sector, where organizations require professionals who can proactively identify and respond to security threats.

  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    CISA certifies individuals for their ability to assess an organization’s information system controls and governance procedures, which is crucial for compliance and risk management roles in the civilian sector. Holding this certification signals to employers a commitment to maintaining security standards and improving operational efficiency.

  • Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)

    CASP+ is designed for experienced security professionals, focusing on advanced skills in enterprise security and risk management. This certification is particularly beneficial for senior cybersecurity roles in the civilian space that require holistic security strategies and comprehensive risk assessments.

  • Associate of (ISC)² in Cybersecurity

    This entry-level credential provides a broad overview of cybersecurity principles, ideal for individuals moving into civilian roles without prior formal education in the field. It demonstrates a foundational knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, making candidates more attractive to employers looking to enhance their cybersecurity workforce.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity or Information Technology

    A bachelor’s degree in relevant fields provides a solid foundation in both technical and theoretical aspects of cybersecurity, enhancing understanding and problem-solving capabilities. With many civilian positions often requiring a degree, this educational background can significantly improve job prospects and advancement opportunities.

  • Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity or Information Assurance

    An advanced degree allows for specialized knowledge in cybersecurity, particularly in areas like policy development and advanced threat management. This level of education can lead to higher-level positions and increased decision-making authority within organizations in the civilian sector.

Typical Employers

See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.

  • Cybersecurity consulting firms
  • Information technology services companies
  • Financial institutions (banks, investment firms)
  • Healthcare organizations (hospitals, health tech companies)
  • Telecommunications companies
  • Large corporations with IT departments
  • Government contractors specializing in cybersecurity
  • Educational institutions (offering cybersecurity training)
  • Software development companies
  • Managed services providers (MSPs)

Career Transition Advice

Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.

  • Leverage your experience in cybersecurity training and development to apply for roles in corporate learning and development departments, focusing on security awareness and compliance training programs.
  • Highlight your understanding of federal cybersecurity frameworks like NIST and CMMC when transitioning to civilian roles in industries that require robust security measures.
  • Build a professional network within the cybersecurity community outside of the government, utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry leaders and potential employers.
  • Consider obtaining industry-standard certifications (e.g., CISSP, CEH) that are recognized in the private sector to enhance your marketability and demonstrate your expertise.
  • Translate your government experience into language that resonates with civilian employers, emphasizing skills that are transferable such as risk management, policy development, and technical writing.

Industry Trends

Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.

  • 📈 Increased emphasis on cybersecurity training and certification: As cyber threats evolve, there is a growing demand for professionals with up-to-date knowledge and certifications in cybersecurity, leading to more learning and development roles.
  • 📈 Integration of AI and machine learning in cybersecurity training: The use of AI to enhance training programs is rising, requiring professionals to adapt and design learning modules that incorporate advanced technologies.
  • 📈 Focus on remote and hybrid learning solutions: The shift towards remote work has led to an increase in demand for effective online training programs in cybersecurity, which creates new roles and opportunities for development professionals.
  • 📈 Emphasis on compliance and regulatory education: With evolving cybersecurity regulations, there is a heightened need for training programs that address compliance, leading to growth in the learning and development field.
  • 📈 Collaboration between public and private sectors: Increased partnerships between governmental agencies and private companies to develop cybersecurity training programs is creating a need for skilled professionals in curriculum design and implementation.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a federal GS-2221 Cybersecurity Learning and Development position to a role in the private sector can be a rewarding but challenging journey. Here are some comprehensive tips and strategies to facilitate your transition successfully:

1. Embrace the Mindset Shift

Transitioning to the private sector often requires a shift in mindset. Here are key aspects to focus on:

  • Personal Accountability: In federal roles, you may have had more structured processes and less risk. In the private sector, you'll often need to take more accountability for your decisions and results. Cultivating a proactive attitude is crucial.
  • Results-Oriented Thinking: Private organizations often focus on measurable outcomes. They expect you to deliver results. Frame your past experiences in terms of contributions to team goals, efficiency improvements, and how your initiatives led to tangible benefits.
  • Flexibility and Adaptability: The private sector is usually less rigid than federal structures. Be prepared to embrace change, learn new approaches, and be open to opportunities that may require you to step outside of your comfort zone.
  • Collaboration: While collaboration exists in federal roles, the private sector often emphasizes teamwork and cross-functional projects. Highlight your collaborative efforts and experiences in group settings to align with these values.

2. Translating Your Experience

Your experience in cybersecurity and learning development can be a significant asset. Here’s how to translate it effectively:

  • Decipher Job Descriptions: Look at job descriptions in the private sector and identify the key skills employers are seeking. Focus on industry language, including specific cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO), project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum), and applicable technologies.
  • Highlight Relevant Achievements: Craft a professional narrative around your accomplishments. For example, instead of stating "conducted training for staff," reframe it as "developed and implemented cybersecurity training programs that improved compliance rates by X% within Y months.”
  • Use Action-Oriented Language: Employ strong action verbs to convey your contributions clearly. Words like "implemented," "developed," "analyzed," and "improved" resonate well in private sector environments. Be specific about the technologies or methodologies you used in your work.

3. Resume Writing Tips

  • Customization: Tailor your resume for each position. Reflect the language from the job descriptions to show that you are aligned with the company’s needs.
  • Create an Executive Summary: Begin your resume with a concise summary that encapsulates your experience, skills, and what you bring to the table. This should be a compelling narrative that draws the reader in.
  • Focus on Skills: Utilize a skills section to highlight specific technical and soft skills relevant to the private sector such as risk management, instructional design, stakeholder engagement, and compliance strategies.
  • Quantify Your Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. Examples include: "Trained over 200 employees on cybersecurity best practices, leading to a X% reduction in security incidents.”

4. Interview Preparation

  • Research the Company: Understand the organization’s culture, values, and current projects. Tailor your responses to show how you can contribute to their success.
  • Behavioral Questions: Be prepared for competency-based interview questions. Use the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, providing concrete examples from your federal experience.
  • Prepare Your Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer about the role, team dynamics, and opportunities for growth. This shows interest and initiative.

5. Networking Strategies

  • Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your goal of transitioning to the private sector. Begin connecting with colleagues and alumni who work in the industry, and join professional groups related to cybersecurity and learning development.
  • Informational Interviews: Reach out and request informational interviews with professionals in your desired industry to gain insights into potential career paths and opportunities.
  • Networking Events: Attend industry conferences, meetups, and seminars to connect with professionals and learn about trends in the cybersecurity field. These relationships can lead to job referrals.

6. Continuous Learning

  • Certifications: Consider obtaining relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), or specialized training in learning technologies). This not only improves your knowledge but also demonstrates commitment to your new career path.
  • Stay Current: Follow industry blogs, podcasts, and publications to stay updated on the latest trends, tools, and practices in cybersecurity and learning development. This knowledge can help you articulate your fit in interviews and networking conversations.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a federal role in cybersecurity learning and development to the private sector is not only possible; it can also significantly enrich your professional journey. By adopting a proactive mindset, translating your experience effectively, and networking strategically, you will position yourself for success in your new career. Remember, the skills you’ve gained in the federal sector are valuable, and with the right approach, they can translate into a rewarding private sector fulfillment. Stay positive, be persistent, and approach your transition with enthusiasm!