fed2civ

GS-2223 Cybersecurity Policy (For DHS use only) Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Cybersecurity Policy (For DHS use only) (GS-2223) 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 Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Associate, Information Security Technician Assists in analyzing security policies and procedures, supports the implementation of cyber defenses, and helps to monitor and report on system vulnerabilities. $45,000 - $65,000
5-7 Cybersecurity Analyst, Information Assurance Specialist, Security Compliance Analyst Conducts vulnerability assessments, analyzes security metrics and reports, assists in the development of security policies, and implements security controls. $65,000 - $85,000
8-9 Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Policy Advisor, Cybersecurity Risk Manager Leads the development of cybersecurity strategies, conducts security audits, and collaborates with stakeholders to ensure compliance with security regulations and best practices. $85,000 - $110,000
10-11 Cybersecurity Manager, Information Security Officer, Cybersecurity Program Manager Oversees security projects and initiatives, ensures alignment with organizational goals, and leads teams in the execution of cybersecurity policies and practices. $110,000 - $140,000
12-13 Director of Cybersecurity, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Cybersecurity Operations Director Directs overall cybersecurity strategy, engages with executive leadership on risk management, and oversees incident response and compliance efforts across the organization. $140,000 - $180,000
14-15 Vice President of Cybersecurity, Senior Vice President of Security and Compliance, Cybersecurity Program Executive Champions cybersecurity practices at the executive level, develops innovative security solutions, and leads cross-functional teams to protect organizational assets from cyber threats. $180,000 - $230,000
SES Chief Security Officer (CSO), Executive Director of Cybersecurity Initiatives, Global Cybersecurity Strategist Defines the vision and strategy for cybersecurity across the enterprise, represents the organization in external security-related discussions, and manages multi-million dollar cybersecurity budgets. $230,000 - $300,000

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.

  • • Risk Assessment and Management
  • • Policy Development and Implementation
  • • Regulatory Compliance and Oversight
  • • Incident Response and Recovery Planning
  • • Cybersecurity Framework Awareness
  • • Technical Writing and Documentation
  • • Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
  • • Vulnerability Assessment and Mitigation Strategies
  • • Project Management and Coordination
  • • Training and Awareness for Cybersecurity Best Practices
  • • Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • • Understanding of Federal Cybersecurity Regulations (e.g., FISMA, NIST)
  • • Collaboration in Cross-Functional Teams
  • • Research Skills for Emerging Cyber Threats and Trends
  • • Strategic Planning for Security Measures
  • • IT Governance and Security Program Management
  • • Monitoring and Evaluating Cybersecurity Policies and Procedures
  • • Data Protection Techniques and Privacy Standards
  • • Incident Reporting and Documentation Processes

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 is widely recognized in the cybersecurity field, demonstrating an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a cybersecurity program. For individuals transitioning from federal roles focused on cybersecurity policy, this certification validates their knowledge and skills in adherence to national and international standards, making them highly attractive to civilian employers in both private and public sectors.

  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

    CISM focuses on managing, designing, and assessing information security systems, which directly corresponds to the responsibilities of developing and executing cybersecurity policies. By attaining this certification, a former federal employee showcases their capabilities in aligning security with business goals, which is essential for civilian roles that require integrating policy with overall enterprise risk management.

  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    CISA is primarily aimed at individuals whose job involves auditing, controlling, and monitoring information technology systems. This certification provides a competitive edge in civilian roles that require thorough assessment and compliance with cybersecurity policies, especially in industries where regulatory standards are stringent.

  • CompTIA Security+

    CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level certification that provides foundational knowledge in cybersecurity, making it ideal for professionals transitioning from federal to civilian roles. It covers essential principles in risk management and security protocols, equipping candidates with the skills needed to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity roles in various sectors.

  • Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate (CSX)

    Offered by ISACA, the Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate provides an understanding of fundamental cybersecurity concepts and practices. Having this certification shows potential employers that the individual has a solid foundational understanding necessary for roles in cybersecurity policy development and implementation.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    While not cybersecurity-specific, the PMP certification equips professionals with strong project management skills, which are critical when implementing cybersecurity policies in civilian organizations. It demonstrates the ability to lead projects, manage cross-functional teams, and ensure alignment between security initiatives and organizational objectives, making candidates more attractive to employers.

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

    The CEH certification equips individuals with the skills to think like a hacker thereby enhancing their ability to develop effective cybersecurity policies. This practical knowledge is vital for civilian roles focused on proactive security measures and gaining insights into potential vulnerabilities and attack vectors.

  • Government Risk and Compliance (GRC)

    The GRC certification focuses on understanding governance, risk management, and compliance within organizations, which aligns with the central tenets of federal cybersecurity policy roles. For civilian employers, this credential highlights an applicant’s capability to ensure that corporate policies meet compliance requirements, a critical aspect in highly regulated environments.

  • Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity or Information Assurance

    Pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity or information assurance provides advanced knowledge of complex security principles and practices. This credential can significantly enhance an individual's qualifications over competitors, especially for leadership roles or positions demanding deep expertise in cybersecurity frameworks and policies.

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.

  • Lockheed Martin
  • Raytheon Technologies
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Boeing
  • Dell Technologies
  • Cisco Systems
  • IBM
  • Accenture
  • Leidos
  • Palantir Technologies

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 cybersecurity expertise by obtaining relevant civilian certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CEH to enhance your marketability in the private sector.
  • Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in developing, implementing, and enforcing cybersecurity policies, as private employers seek candidates with strong policy backgrounds.
  • Network with professionals in the cybersecurity field through LinkedIn or industry events to build connections that may lead to job opportunities.
  • Consider targeting industries that prioritize cybersecurity, such as finance or healthcare, which often seek individuals with government experience to understand compliance and regulatory frameworks.
  • Be prepared to translate your federal experience into civilian language, focusing on skills and achievements that align with civilian job descriptions.

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.

  • 📈 Increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals due to rising cyber threats and attacks on critical infrastructure.
  • 📈 Expansion of federal regulations and standards in cybersecurity which will require skilled personnel to implement and manage compliance efforts.
  • 📈 Growth of public-private partnerships in cybersecurity, providing opportunities for collaboration between government agencies and private sector companies.
  • 📈 Advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, necessitating continuous skills upgrading and adaptation in cybersecurity practices.
  • 📈 Focus on workforce development and training programs for cybersecurity roles, increasing access to pathways for entering the field.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a federal role, especially in a specialized area like Cybersecurity Policy, to the private sector can feel daunting. However, with the right strategies and mindset, you can make this shift successfully. Below are some comprehensive tips on mindset, resume building, interview preparation, and networking as you embark on this journey.

Mindset Shifts

  1. Embrace Change: The private sector operates differently than federal positions. Policies may be less rigid, and there's often more emphasis on flexibility and innovation. Be open to adapting your approaches and methodologies.
  2. Focus on Value Creation: Unlike the federal sector often driven by compliance and regulation, the private sector prioritizes value creation. Consider how your background in cybersecurity policy can help organizations mitigate risks and improve their bottom line.
  3. Be Proactive: In private companies, self-initiative is valued. Show your potential employer that you can take the lead on projects and push initiatives without waiting for instruction.
  4. Think Through a Business Lens: Understanding how your actions impact the organization’s profitability is crucial. Frame your skills and experiences in a way that shows potential employers how you can contribute to their objectives.

Resume Tips

  1. Convert Federal Language to Private Sector Terminology: Government jargon might not resonate with private sector employers. For example, instead of saying you manage a grant program, say you oversee a budget that aligns with departmental goals. Use action verbs like "developed," "implemented," or "optimized" to highlight your contributions.
  2. Quantify Achievements: Include specific metrics that showcase the impact of your work. Instead of saying you improved cybersecurity policies, say you reduced security incidents by 30% over six months.
  3. Highlight Transferable Skills: Identify skills that are valuable across both sectors, such as project management, risk assessment, team collaboration, or regulatory compliance, and emphasize these in your resume.
  4. Tailored Resumes for Each Application: Customize your resume for each job application based on the job description and requirements. Make sure to mirror the language used in those descriptions to showcase relevance.

Interview Tips

  1. Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied your skills in real-world situations. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses effectively.
  2. Be Ready to Discuss Your Transition: Employers may be curious about your shift from federal to private. Frame this positively, emphasizing growth and your eagerness to embrace a new environment.
  3. Articulate Your Cybersecurity Experience: Clearly explain your specific cybersecurity policy work and how it applies to the role you're pursuing. Discuss relevant experiences and how they position you as a valuable asset in protecting a company’s interests.
  4. Showcase Your Soft Skills: In addition to technical expertise, soft skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial. Be sure to illustrate these qualities through your examples.

Networking Strategies

  1. Utilize LinkedIn Effectively: Build a professional LinkedIn profile that clearly outlines your experience, skills, certifications, and aspirations. Connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to increase visibility.
  2. Attend Industry Events: Look for conferences, seminars, workshops, or meetups related to cybersecurity and business management. These events are excellent opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about industry trends.
  3. Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in roles you aspire to and request informational interviews. These conversations can offer insights into the industry, company culture, and what skills are currently in demand.
  4. Join Professional Organizations: Consider becoming a member of organizations like ISACA, (ISC)², or the Electronic Frontier Foundation. These can open doors to networking opportunities and provide access to valuable resources.

Translating Federal Experience

  1. Identify Areas of Commonality: Look for parallels between federal work and the private sector. For example, if you worked on establishing security protocols, relate this to how businesses also work towards compliance with industry standards.
  2. Use Business Metrics: Familiarize yourself with common business terminology and metrics (e.g., ROI, net loss, operational efficiency). When describing your achievements, frame them in these terms to show relevance.
  3. Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills: Employers appreciate candidates who can solve problems effectively. Share instances where you identified a cybersecurity risk and led a successful response.
  4. Networking During Transition: Engage with other professionals who have transitioned from federal jobs to the private sector. They can share their experiences, offer advice, and even connect you with job openings.

Conclusion

Making the transition from a federal cybersecurity policy role to the private sector may seem challenging, but remember, your skills are highly valuable and sought after. By reframing your mindset, effectively communicating your experience, and strategically building your network, you can position yourself successfully for a rewarding career in the private sector. Embrace this transition as a chance for growth and new opportunities—your future is bright!