SANS published its 2005 Information Security Salary & Career Advancement Survey. The results indicate that security administrators earn an average of $75,275 per year in the United States with an annual raise of 2.9%. The raise factor just barely tries to keep up with yearly inflation (which is now at 3.4%).
The results also indicate that larger companies pay more than smaller companies and that more experience equates to more pay -- but if companies don't keep pay rates in step with cost of living increases then the only sure way to increase your pay is to switch jobs.
I knew one administrator who switched jobs every couple of years -- not because he didn't like his current job but because by doing so he moved up the payscale ladder quicker. Last I heard he was the vice president of a company in New England.
Of course that route isn't for everybody.
End of Article
You must be a registered user or online subscriber to comment on this article. Please log on before posting a comment. Are you a new visitor?
Register now
Get Mark Minasi’s Windows Server 2008 Audio CDs "Windows expert, consultant and best-selling author Mark Minasi shows you if 2008 is right for you and, if so, how to get the most out of it!
Take Control of Your Email Optimize your email storage – Download this white paper to learn key how-to’s in email storage management.
Get Windows IT Pro To Go! The Windows IT Pro Magazine Master CD is a powerful combination of content and convenience. Order now, and save up to 25%--plus you’ll get online access to new articles each and every month! Subscribe today!
Register
