Information Security Entry Level Jobs: 2 Industries Hiring Now

I still remember staring at my computer screen late one night, scrolling through job listings and feeling that familiar mix of hope and dread. Fresh out of college with my IT degree, I wanted to break into cybersecurity but kept seeing the same frustrating phrase over and over: "5+ years of experience required." Sound familiar?

If you're looking to start your career in information security but facing the classic catch-22 of needing experience to get experience, I've got good news. The cybersecurity skills gap is very real—with nearly 700,000 unfilled positions in the US alone as of early 2025—and some industries are actively recruiting entry-level talent to fill their ranks.

In this article, I'll share insights on two booming industries where information security newcomers can find solid footing, what specific roles to look for, and how to position yourself as a strong candidate even without years of experience. Let's dive in!

The Current Information Security Landscape

Before we explore specific industries, let's take a brief look at the current state of the cybersecurity job market.

The threat landscape has evolved dramatically over the past few years. Ransomware attacks have become more sophisticated, supply chain vulnerabilities continue to emerge, and the shift to remote work has expanded attack surfaces for most organizations. Consequently, businesses across all sectors are scrambling to strengthen their security postures.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analyst jobs are projected to grow 35% through 2031—much faster than the average for all occupations. And while many cybersecurity roles do require experience, the desperate need for talent has opened doors for entry-level candidates in certain sectors.

"I've never seen anything like the current market," a senior recruiter at a major staffing firm told me recently. "Companies that would have insisted on 3-5 years of experience for junior roles just a few years ago are now creating structured programs specifically for fresh graduates and career-changers."

Industry #1: Healthcare

If there's one industry that's become a prime target for cyberattacks while simultaneously undergoing massive digital transformation, it's healthcare. And this combination has created a perfect storm of entry-level information security opportunities.

Why Healthcare Is Hiring Entry-Level Security Professionals

Healthcare organizations face unique security challenges:

• They manage extremely sensitive patient data protected by HIPAA regulations

• Their technology infrastructure often includes a mix of modern and legacy systems

• The consequences of a breach can be literally life-threatening

• Many facilities operate 24/7 with complex access control needs

Yet despite these challenges (or perhaps because of them), many healthcare organizations have historically underinvested in cybersecurity. That's changing rapidly—and creating opportunities for newcomers.

"We've had to completely rethink our approach to security staffing," explained the CISO of a regional hospital network I spoke with last month. "Instead of competing for the same small pool of experienced security professionals, we're building our own talent pipeline by bringing in smart, eager entry-level people and giving them specialized training."

Entry-Level Roles to Look For in Healthcare

These positions typically require minimal experience but offer excellent growth potential:

Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst (Tier 1) In this role, you'll monitor security tools and alerts, document security incidents, and escalate issues to senior team members when necessary. It's an excellent learning position where you'll gain exposure to a wide range of security technologies and threats.

GRC Analyst (Governance, Risk, and Compliance) Healthcare is heavily regulated, creating demand for people who can help with security policy documentation, compliance checking, and risk assessments. These roles often value attention to detail and communication skills over deep technical expertise, making them ideal entry points.

Security Awareness Coordinator Human error remains one of the biggest security vulnerabilities in healthcare. Organizations need people who can develop and deliver security training, run phishing simulations, and build a security-conscious culture among medical staff.

I remember interviewing for a GRC position at a healthcare company a few years back. The hiring manager told me they actually preferred candidates without too much security experience because they wanted people who could translate complex security concepts into language that doctors and nurses could understand. Sometimes, being a novice can actually be an advantage!

Industry #2: Financial Technology (FinTech)

While traditional banking has high barriers to entry for information security roles, the booming fintech sector presents a different story. These companies—which include payment processors, digital banks, investment platforms, and cryptocurrency services—are disrupting finance while creating substantial security job opportunities.

Why FinTech Is Entry-Level Friendly

FinTech companies have several characteristics that make them ideal for information security newcomers:

• They're typically growing rapidly and building security teams from scratch

• Many operate with "move fast" startup cultures that value potential over credentials

• They're often building modern systems without the technical debt of legacy infrastructure

• There's high competition for talent, forcing them to be creative in their hiring approaches

A friend who recently landed an entry-level security role at a cryptocurrency exchange told me, "They cared way more about my willingness to learn and my passion for security than my lack of formal experience. During the interview, I talked about my home lab and the security courses I'd completed on my own time, and that seemed to impress them more than anything on my resume."

Entry-Level Roles to Look For in FinTech

Application Security Tester. Many fintech companies need people to perform basic security testing on their web and mobile applications. While senior penetration testers command high salaries, entry-level testers who can follow established methodologies to identify common vulnerabilities are also in demand.

Security Engineer (Junior) In these roles, you'll help implement security controls, assist with security architecture, and contribute to secure software development practices. Fintech companies often use modern cloud infrastructure, creating opportunities to learn cutting-edge security techniques.

Fraud Analyst. This role sits at the intersection of security and business operations, focusing on detecting and preventing fraudulent transactions. It's an excellent entry point that combines security knowledge with analytical skills and customer service.

I've noticed that fintech startups often have less rigid job requirements than established companies. A job posting might ask for "2+ years of experience," but be willing to consider promising candidates without that background. Don't self-select out of applying—many of these companies are hurting for talent and will train the right person!

How to Position Yourself for Entry-Level Information Security Jobs

So how do you make yourself competitive for these opportunities, especially if you're coming from another field or just finishing your education? Here are some practical steps I've seen work for myself and others:

1. Focus on Foundational Certifications

While advanced certifications like CISSP require years of experience, these entry-level options can help you stand out:

• CompTIA Security+ - Still the gold standard for validating baseline security knowledge

• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) - More comprehensive but also more expensive

• EC-Council Certified Secure Computer User (CSCU) - A basic starting point

I was skeptical about certifications until I got my Security+. Within weeks of adding it to my LinkedIn profile, I noticed a significant uptick in recruiter messages. Sometimes these "paper credentials" really do open doors!

2. Build Practical Skills Through Home Labs

Theory only gets you so far in information security. Employers want to see that you can apply knowledge practically. Setting up a home lab is easier and cheaper than you might think:

• Install security tools like Wireshark, Metasploit, and Snort on an old computer

• Practice with intentionally vulnerable systems like DVWA or Metasploitable

• Document your experiments and learnings in a blog or GitHub repository

When I was starting out, I turned an old laptop into a security testing environment. During interviews, being able to describe specific exercises I'd completed and what I'd learned from them helped compensate for my lack of professional experience.

3. Network Strategically in Healthcare and FinTech

General cybersecurity networking is helpful, but focusing on your target industries can be even more effective:

• Join healthcare-specific groups like H-ISAC (Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center)

• Attend fintech security meetups and webinars

• Follow and engage with security leaders from these industries on LinkedIn

• Participate in industry-specific capture-the-flag competitions and hackathons

Some of the most useful connections I've made came from simply sending thoughtful LinkedIn messages to security professionals in companies I admired, asking for 15-minute informational interviews. People are often surprisingly willing to help newcomers—especially if you show genuine interest in their work rather than just asking for job leads.

4. Look for Security Adjacent Roles as Entry Points

Sometimes the best path into information security isn't through a dedicated security role. Consider positions that can serve as stepping stones:

• IT Support Specialist with security responsibilities

• Network Administrator with security tasks

• Software Developer focusing on secure coding

• Compliance Analyst with technical interests

I know someone who started as a help desk technician at a healthcare company but expressed security interest. Within six months, she was handling password resets and access management, and a year later, she transitioned to the security team full-time. Internal mobility can be your friend!

The Overlooked Advantage of Being a Newcomer

Here's something I've come to believe after watching many people enter the field: being new to information security can sometimes be an advantage, not just a limitation.

When you're new, you:

• Ask questions that experienced people might overlook

• Bring fresh perspectives from other domains

• Aren't locked into outdated security paradigms

• Often have stronger communication skills with non-technical stakeholders

During a recent security conference, I heard a CISO say, "Sometimes I specifically want junior people on certain projects because they challenge our assumptions and don't just accept 'we've always done it this way' as an answer."

Final Thoughts: Persistence Pays Off

Breaking into information security can feel overwhelming. Trust me, I've been there! But the current demand—especially in healthcare and fintech—means that determined newcomers can find their place.

The path won't always be linear. You might need to take a role that's adjacent to security before landing your dream position. You may need to invest evenings and weekends in developing your skills. You might face rejection before finding the right opportunity.

But if you focus on these high-growth industries, develop relevant skills, and tell your story effectively, those entry-level opportunities are out there. The security field needs fresh talent and new perspectives now more than ever.

What entry-level security path interests you most? Are you leaning toward healthcare, fintech, or perhaps another industry altogether? Whatever you choose, remember that everyone in information security started somewhere—and many started exactly where you are now.