Explore how your federal experience as a DHS Cybersecurity Specialist (For DHS use only) (GS-2230) 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, Entry Level IT Security Specialist, IT Security Associate | Assists with monitoring security systems, reviewing logs for potential security incidents, and performing basic vulnerability assessments under the supervision of senior staff. | $45,000 - $60,000 |
| 5-7 | Cybersecurity Analyst, Information Security Specialist, IT Risk Analyst | Conducts security assessments, implements security controls, analyzes vulnerabilities, and collaborates with teams to enhance the organization's cybersecurity posture. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, Cyber Risk Manager, Information Assurance Specialist | Leads security initiatives, develops security policies, performs advanced security assessments, and mentors junior staff on best practices in cybersecurity. | $80,000 - $100,000 |
| 10-11 | Cybersecurity Consultant, Information Security Manager, Lead Systems Security Engineer | Oversees cybersecurity programs, develops comprehensive security strategies, coordinates incident response actions, and ensures compliance with government regulations and standards. | $100,000 - $130,000 |
| 12-13 | Cybersecurity Program Director, Senior Information Security Officer, Cybersecurity Risk Director | Directs cybersecurity operations across the organization, manages cybersecurity projects, collaborates with executive leadership to define risk management strategies, and ensures alignment with overall business objectives. | $130,000 - $160,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Vice President of Cybersecurity, Director of IT Security | Establishes and maintains the enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy, oversees security governance programs, communicates security objectives to stakeholders, and manages large cybersecurity teams across the organization. | $160,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Executive Vice President of Cybersecurity, Chief Security Officer (CSO), Senior Vice President of Information Security | Provides vision and leadership for cybersecurity strategy, drives organizational policies related to security and risk management, and engages with stakeholders at all levels in strategic decision-making and business continuity planning. | $200,000 - $250,000 |
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 is recognized globally and demonstrates an individual's expertise in managing and implementing IT security programs. This credential highlights a strong understanding of security architecture, governance, and risk management, making candidates highly competitive for roles in cybersecurity across both private and public sectors.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
CISM focuses on the management and governance aspects of information security, making it especially relevant for roles that encompass strategic oversight. This certification signals to employers a candidate’s ability to align security goals with business objectives, which is crucial in civilian roles that support organizational missions.
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level certification that validates foundational cybersecurity skills and knowledge. Holding this certification can help transitioning employees demonstrate their commitment to security best practices, making them more appealing to potential employers looking for candidates with proven baseline security competencies.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The CEH certification focuses on offensive security techniques and is crucial for understanding how to identify vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems. This skill set is increasingly valuable in the civilian cybersecurity job market, as businesses seek to adopt proactive security measures to prevent breaches.
Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
This certification provides knowledge about security operations processes and threat detection. With the rise of network security concerns in the private sector, this credential equips individuals with the practical skills needed to monitor and maintain operations securely.
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
The GSEC certification covers essential knowledge in IT systems for information security professionals that are responsible for preventing and responding to security breaches. It demonstrates to civilian employers that an individual not only possesses technical knowledge but also understands how to apply it effectively in real-world scenarios.
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
With the increasing reliance on cloud services, the CCSP certification validates cloud security knowledge and skills. This is especially pertinent in the civilian sector as organizations seek professionals who can confidently navigate and secure cloud environments.
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 GS-2230 DHS Cybersecurity Specialist role to a private sector position can be a rewarding yet challenging journey. The skills and experiences gained in government work are highly valuable; however, navigating the differences in organizational culture, language, and expectations requires a proactive mindset. Here are key areas to focus on during your transition:
Embrace Change: Federal work environments can be stable and predictable, while private sector environments typically value agility and adaptability. Prepare your mindset to be open to changes and new ways of doing things.
Value-Driven Approach: In the private sector, companies often focus on the bottom line. Understand how your work adds value to an organization's goals, whether it’s protecting data, minimizing risk, or ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Proactive Problem Solving: Federal roles may often involve a prescribed way of doing things due to regulations. In contrast, private sector jobs often reward innovative thinking and a proactive approach to identifying and solving problems. Be ready to showcase your ability to think outside the box.
Communication Style: Expect a more straightforward and less formal communication style in the private sector. Be prepared to adjust your language and approach to suit an audience that may not be familiar with federal jargon or protocols.
Tailor Your Resume: Your federal resume may need to be reformatted to appeal to private sector employers. Use a clear, concise format that highlights your impact, achievements, and skills rather than just listing duties.
Focus on Skills: Highlight transferable skills such as risk management, incident response, and stakeholder engagement. Include technical skills like specific cybersecurity tools or certifications that are recognized in the private sector.
Create a Strong Professional Summary: The summary at the top of your resume should encapsulate your skills and what you bring to the table. Keep it focused on the private sector's priorities, like innovation, collaboration, and results.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Private sector interviews often focus on behavioral questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your responses, emphasizing how you handled cybersecurity challenges and contributed to organizational security.
Show Enthusiasm for the Transition: Communicate why you are moving to the private sector and what excites you about it. Whether it's the pace of innovation or the impact of emerging technologies, showcase your passion for the field.
Emphasize Soft Skills: In addition to technical expertise, employers look for candidates with excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Be prepared to discuss times you collaborated effectively or led a team.
Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare questions that demonstrate your understanding of the company's challenges and goals. This will not only show your interest in the organization but also your proactive thinking.
Leverage LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to connect with former colleagues, industry professionals, and recruiters. Update your profile to reflect your career goals and desired roles in the private sector. Join relevant groups to engage in discussions and stay informed about industry trends.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals in roles you aspire to. Request informational interviews to learn about their experiences and collect insights on transitioning to the private sector. This can also lead to potential job referrals.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in cybersecurity conferences, seminars, and networking events. Use these opportunities to meet potential employers and learn about the skills that are in demand.
Tap into Alumni Networks: If you attended a university, leverage alumni connections who are now working in the private sector. Alumni often provide valuable advice and referrals.
Identify Core Competencies: Start by identifying the key competencies and skills you developed in your federal role. Matching these with private sector requirements will bridge the transition gap.
Speak to the Employer's Needs: Research the companies you are interested in and understand their mission, values, and pain points. Position your experience in a way that speaks directly to their needs—for example, mitigating cybersecurity risks or leading a security compliance project that meets industry standards.
Create a Portfolio of Work: If possible, compile a portfolio showcasing your work in cybersecurity, including project summaries, outcomes, and methodologies used. This can support your resume and allow employers to see your hands-on experience.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with current trends and certifications in cybersecurity to enhance your attractiveness to potential employers. Consider taking courses in areas such as Cloud Security, Cyber Risk Management, or emerging technologies.
In conclusion, transitioning to the private sector from a federal cybersecurity role is an opportunity to leverage your skills in a new environment. By adopting a proactive mindset, tailoring your resume, preparing for interviews, expanding your network, and effectively translating your experience, you can set yourself up for success in your new career path. Remember, every step you take builds towards a fulfilling and successful future!