Explore how your federal experience as a Cybersecurity Risk Management and Compliance (For DHS use only) (GS-2226) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS 1-4 | Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, Compliance Assistant, IT Risk Analyst | Assisting in compliance reviews, gathering and analyzing security documentation, supporting senior staff in risk assessments, and maintaining cybersecurity governance records. | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| GS 5-7 | Cybersecurity Analyst, Risk Management Associate, Information Security Specialist | Conducting risk assessments, evaluating IT systems for security compliance, preparing reports on vulnerabilities, and assisting in the development of cybersecurity policies. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| GS 8-9 | Cybersecurity Risk Consultant, Compliance Officer, Cybersecurity Risk Manager | Leading assessments of cybersecurity measures, formulating compliance strategies, managing security audits, reviewing technical documentation, and conducting training for staff on security practices. | $80,000 - $110,000 |
| GS 10-11 | Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, Risk Management Manager, Cybersecurity Compliance Lead | Overseeing compliance programs, developing comprehensive risk management plans, conducting high-level security assessments, advising on regulatory requirements, and leading cross-department compliance initiatives. | $110,000 - $140,000 |
| GS 12-13 | Cybersecurity Risk Director, Information Security Manager, Principal Compliance Consultant | Strategizing cybersecurity risk mitigation efforts, overseeing compliance across multiple business units, managing incident response teams, coordinating with executive leadership on security initiatives, and maintaining relationships with regulatory agencies. | $140,000 - $180,000 |
| GS 14-15 | Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Cybersecurity Risk Executive, Director of IT Compliance | Establishing organizational risk management frameworks, directing enterprise-wide security compliance policies, presenting to senior leadership on risk posture, shaping overall cybersecurity strategy, and ensuring alignment with global regulatory standards. | $180,000 - $220,000 |
| SES | Vice President of Cybersecurity, Senior Vice President of Risk Management, Executive Director of Information Security | Setting the strategic direction for cybersecurity governance, leading enterprise risk management, engaging with stakeholders on national security issues, overseeing large-scale cybersecurity initiatives, and ensuring the organization meets its compliance obligations at all levels. | $220,000 - $300,000 |
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.
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 deep knowledge of information security principles and practices, making it highly relevant for cybersecurity professionals. Holding this certification would not only validate expertise in risk management and compliance but also enhance credibility when seeking civilian roles, particularly in defense and corporate sectors.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
CISM focuses on managing and governing enterprise information security, which aligns closely with risk management and compliance responsibilities in the GS-2226 role. This certification indicates to employers a candidate's ability to develop and manage an enterprise information security program, making them a valuable asset in the civilian job market.
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
CRISC certifies professionals in risk management and control, which is a critical aspect of the GS-2226 position. This credential enhances job prospects in industries that prioritize strong risk management practices, as it indicates a solid understanding of identifying, assessing, and mitigating IT risks.
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ provides foundational knowledge of cybersecurity, making it an excellent starting point for those transitioning into nonprofit or corporate security roles after a federal career. Gaining this certification can set candidates apart, particularly for entry-level positions, by showcasing their commitment to cybersecurity principles.
ISO 27001 Lead Implementer/Lead Auditor
ISO 27001 certifications are widely recognized in the civilian sector for establishing and maintaining an Information Security Management System (ISMS). For professionals moving from a federal role, this certification demonstrates proficiency in compliance and risk management methodologies applicable to private organizations.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification indicates a professional’s ability to lead and direct projects, which is invaluable in cybersecurity initiatives that require compliance and risk assessment. For transitioning GS-2226 employees, showcasing project management skills can lead to more senior roles in civilian organizations that focus on cybersecurity program delivery.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) Certification
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is widely adopted in both public and private sectors, promoting a risk-based approach to managing cybersecurity. Earning this certification proves familiarity with federal guidelines and demonstrates the ability to implement compliant frameworks in civilian enterprises.
AWS Certified Security – Specialty
This certification focuses on securing data and applications in Amazon Web Services (AWS), which is increasingly relevant as many businesses migrate to cloud solutions. Transitioning professionals from the GS-2226 series should pursue this to align their skills with industry trends in cybersecurity and cloud compliance.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
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.
Transitioning from a federal role, specifically a GS-2226 Cybersecurity Risk Management and Compliance position at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to the private sector can seem daunting. However, with the right mindset and practical strategies, you can make this shift successfully. Here’s a comprehensive guide that covers the necessary mindset shifts, resume and interview tips, networking strategies, and ways to translate federal experience into terms that resonate in the private sector.
Embrace Flexibility: Unlike the federal environment, the private sector is often less structured. Be prepared to adapt quickly to changing priorities, which can enhance your problem-solving skills.
Take Ownership: In federal roles, you may have benefited from established protocols and guidelines. In the private sector, take initiative and demonstrate a results-oriented mindset. Focus on ownership and accountability for your projects and tasks.
Client-Centric Approach: Many private sector roles focus on serving client needs. Shift your perspective to prioritize finding solutions that meet customer demands, rather than adhering strictly to processes.
Value of Innovation: Private companies often seek individuals who can contribute new ideas and improvements. Position yourself as a forward-thinking problem solver rather than a rule follower.
Tailor Your Resume to the Private Sector: Remove jargon and acronyms from the federal government that may be unfamiliar to private sector hiring managers. Instead of focusing on job duties, emphasize accomplishments and the impact of your work.
Use Results-Oriented Language: Quantify your achievements. For example, instead of stating "Managed cybersecurity compliance," you could say, "Implemented a cybersecurity strategy that reduced risk by X% and ensured compliance with critical regulations."
Highlight Transferable Skills: Focus on core competencies such as risk assessment, data analysis, project management, and stakeholder communication. These are valued in both environments.
Include Relevant Keywords: Familiarize yourself with the language used in the private sector cybersecurity job postings. Utilize keywords that align with your experience and that indicate you can meet their needs.
Practice Behavioral Questions: Prepare to share examples of past experiences, especially those that demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your responses.
Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Research the company’s culture and values. Be ready to discuss how your experiences can contribute to their objectives and showcase your adaptability.
Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s future direction, cybersecurity challenges, and how they measure success. This shows your interest and commitment to aligning with their mission.
Confidence and Authenticity: Present yourself confidently and authentically. Your unique background brings valuable insights. Don’t hesitate to discuss your federal experiences in a way that demonstrates their relevance to potential employers.
Leverage Online Platforms: Utilize LinkedIn to connect with professionals in both cybersecurity and the private sector. Share insights, participate in discussions, and engage with content relevant to your field.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in cybersecurity conferences, webinars, or local meetups to expand your network. Engage with speakers and attendees to discuss trends, best practices, and potential job opportunities.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals in roles or companies you are interested in and request informational interviews. This can provide valuable insights and may lead to job referrals.
Utilize Alumni Networks: If you attended university or professional training, reconnect with alumni working in the private sector. They can offer advice, introduce you to opportunities, and help facilitate connections.
Focus on Achievements: Frame your federal accomplishments in a way that highlights how they relate to essential business outcomes. For example, discuss how your compliance initiatives safeguarded data that led to better customer trust and business reputation.
Business Metrics: Translate your experiences into quantifiable business metrics (e.g., budget managed, team size, project outcomes) which resonate more with private sector business principles.
Case Studies: Construct narratives around significant projects you worked on. Present them as case studies where you outline the problem, your approach, and the measurable outcome.
Highlight Relevant Technologies: Emphasize your proficiency with cybersecurity tools and technologies that are recognized in the private sector. Be specific about which tools you are experienced with and how they align with industry standards.
In conclusion, as you transition from a federal cybersecurity role to the private sector, keeping a proactive mindset will empower you to effectively leverage your skills. Remain open to learning and adapting, and ensure that you position your federal experience to highlight your readiness for the dynamic private sector environment. With these strategies in place, you're not just making a career change but embarking on an exploring new horizons of opportunity.