IT Risk Assessor in Tennessee Career Overview
As an IT Risk Assessor, you play a vital role in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating risks associated with information technology within organizations. Your responsibilities typically include:
- Risk Analysis: Conduct thorough assessments to identify potential threats to IT systems, data security, and compliance with regulations.
- Policy Development: Assist in creating and updating organizational policies and procedures that minimize risks while aligning with industry standards and best practices.
- Risk Mitigation Strategies: Recommend and implement strategies to reduce vulnerabilities, ensuring that technology systems operate securely and efficiently.
- Collaboration: Work closely with various departments, such as IT, legal, and compliance teams, to ensure a holistic approach to risk management.
- Reporting: Prepare detailed reports and presentations for stakeholders, including senior management, outlining risk assessments and proposed actions.
- Continuous Monitoring: Keep abreast of emerging technologies and evolving cybersecurity threats, maintaining an ongoing evaluation of potential risks to the organization.
In today's digital landscape, where cyber threats and compliance requirements are ever-increasing, your expertise is essential in protecting organizational assets and supporting strategic decision-making. By ensuring that risks are effectively managed, you contribute not only to the safety of the organization but also to its overall success and reputation in the marketplace.
IT Risk Assessor Salary in Tennessee
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an IT Risk Assessor in Tennessee
To pursue a career as an IT Risk Assessor, you need to obtain specific educational qualifications and training. Consider the following degree programs that can provide you with the foundational knowledge necessary for this role:
Computer and Information Systems Security and Information Assurance
- This program typically covers topics related to securing information systems, developing security policies, and understanding risk management frameworks.
Cyber and Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism
- In this program, you will learn how to investigate cyber crimes, recover data, and analyze security breaches while also addressing counterterrorism measures.
Cybersecurity Defense Strategy and Policy
- A degree in this area focuses on creating and evaluating defense strategies against cyber threats and understanding compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
Information Resources Management
- This program emphasizes managing information resources effectively while ensuring data protection and aligning IT practices with business objectives.
Risk Management
- A degree in risk management typically covers the identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks, which is essential for an IT Risk Assessor's role.
Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs can enhance your understanding of risk assessment processes and the IT landscape. Professional certifications, while not mandatory, can also bolster your qualifications as you advance in your career.
Best Schools to become a IT Risk Assessor in Tennessee 2024
Western Governors University
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Phoenix-Arizona
University of the Cumberlands
Collin County Community College District
Purdue University Global
- Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information.
- Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies.
- May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure.
- May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.
IT Risk Assessor Required Skills and Competencies in Tennessee
Analytical Skills: You need to analyze complex data and risks associated with IT systems. This involves identifying vulnerabilities, assessing potential security threats, and developing strategies to mitigate those risks.
Technical Knowledge: A strong understanding of IT infrastructure, network security, and information systems is essential. Familiarity with various operating systems, hardware, software applications, and emerging technologies will enhance your effectiveness.
Risk Assessment Proficiency: You should be adept at performing risk assessments and audits, utilizing frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, or COBIT to evaluate security posture and compliance.
Attention to Detail: Precision is key in identifying security weaknesses and ensuring that protocols are followed without oversight. Small errors can lead to significant security breaches.
Communication Skills: Effectively conveying complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders is vital. You must be able to produce clear reports and deliver presentations to various audiences, including IT teams and upper management.
Problem-Solving Abilities: You will encounter unforeseen security challenges. Your capability to think critically and develop innovative solutions quickly will be a significant asset.
Project Management Skills: You should be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and prioritizing tasks to ensure effective risk management.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with industry regulations and compliance standards relevant to IT security, such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR, is important for ensuring organizations adhere to legal requirements.
Interpersonal Skills: Building relationships within organizations is crucial, as you need to collaborate with various departments to foster a culture of security awareness and compliance.
Ethical Judgment: You must possess a strong sense of ethics and integrity, particularly in handling sensitive information and making recommendations that may impact organization-wide policies.
Job Duties for IT Risk Assessors
Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.
Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.
Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.
Data base user interface and query software
- Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2
- Blackboard software
Transaction security and virus protection software
- NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
- Stack smashing protection SSP software
Web platform development software
- Google Angular
- Spring Framework
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for IT Risk Assessor in Tennessee
The job market for IT Risk Assessors in Tennessee is experiencing a notable uptick, driven by the increasing reliance on technology across industries and heightened awareness of cybersecurity threats. As organizations strive to protect their digital assets, the demand for skilled IT Risk Assessors continues to grow.
Demand: There is a strong demand for IT Risk Assessors, particularly as industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing focus on safeguarding sensitive information. Regulatory requirements and compliance standards also contribute to this demand, as businesses seek professionals who can help navigate complex risk management frameworks.
Growth Potential: The potential for growth in this field is substantial. With the constant evolution of technology and emerging threats, organizations will continue to prioritize their IT security infrastructure. This trend is likely to create numerous opportunities for advancement within the profession. Those who demonstrate expertise in risk assessment and can adapt to new technologies will be well-positioned for career progression.
Geographical Hotspots: Several regions in Tennessee exhibit significant opportunities for IT Risk Assessors. Key locations include:
- Nashville: As a booming tech hub, Nashville is home to numerous healthcare companies, startups, and established corporations that are investing in their cybersecurity frameworks.
- Memphis: The logistics and distribution industry in Memphis necessitates robust IT risk assessment practices, given the sensitivity of data involved in operations.
- Knoxville: With a mix of educational institutions and growing tech firms, Knoxville offers a thriving environment for IT Risk Assessors looking to work in both academia and industry.
- Chattanooga: Known for its focus on innovation and technology, Chattanooga is attracting companies that require skilled IT Risk Assessors to secure their operations effectively.
As the demand for IT Risk Assessors continues to rise, you will find a growing number of job opportunities across various sectors in Tennessee. Exploring these hotspots can help position you for a successful career in this dynamic field.
Top Related Careers to IT Risk Assessor 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an IT Risk Assessor in Tennessee
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
- NIST provides guidelines and standards for managing IT risks. Their special publications, especially NIST SP 800-30 (Risk Management Guide for Information Technology) and NIST SP 800-53 (Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations), are essential for understanding risk assessments.
- Website: nist.gov
Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
- ISACA offers resources, certifications, and publications related to IT governance, risk management, and cybersecurity. Their COBIT framework is particularly useful for IT risk assessors.
- Website: isaca.org
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
- ISO 31000 provides principles and guidelines for risk management applicable to any organization and industry. Familiarity with this standard can enhance your approach to risk assessment.
- Website: iso.org
SANS Institute
- An organization focused on cybersecurity training, SANS provides resources, research documents, and certifications that can be beneficial for an IT Risk Assessor.
- Website: sans.org
Risk Management Association (RMA)
- RMA offers resources focused on risk management in banking and financial institutions, but their methodologies and frameworks can be beneficial in broader contexts.
- Website: rmahq.org
The Institute of Risk Management (IRM)
- IRM offers a range of risk management resources, including publications, webinars, and networking opportunities that can enhance your knowledge and skills as an IT Risk Assessor.
- Website: theirm.org
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- The FTC provides guidance on data security and privacy practices, which are vital for managing IT risks, especially in relation to consumer protection.
- Website: ftc.gov
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- CISA offers a wide range of resources related to cybersecurity risks, threat assessments, and best practices for securing IT environments.
- Website: cisa.gov
Project Management Institute (PMI)
- While focused on project management, PMI provides resources and standards that can be applicable for managing risks in IT projects.
- Website: pmi.org
- Online Courses and Certifications:
- Coursera & edX: Provide online courses on risk management and cybersecurity from accredited universities.
- Website: coursera.org | edx.org
- Coursera & edX: Provide online courses on risk management and cybersecurity from accredited universities.
- Books and Publications:
- Consider reading "Risk Management Framework: A Lab-Based Approach to Securing Information Systems" by James Broad and "The Risk Management Handbook" by David Hillson for additional insights.
Using these resources will enhance your expertise and keep you informed about the evolving landscape of IT risk assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About IT Risk Assessor in Tennessee
What does an IT Risk Assessor do?
An IT Risk Assessor evaluates an organization’s information systems and practices to identify potential security risks and vulnerabilities. They recommend solutions to mitigate these risks and ensure compliance with industry regulations.What skills are essential for an IT Risk Assessor?
Key skills include an understanding of cybersecurity principles, risk management frameworks, analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills. Familiarity with compliance standards, such as GDPR and HIPAA, can also be valuable.What educational background do I need to become an IT Risk Assessor?
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field is required. Some positions may prefer a master’s degree or specialized certifications in risk management or cybersecurity.What certifications are beneficial for an IT Risk Assessor?
Certifications that can enhance your qualifications include Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).What is the job outlook for IT Risk Assessors in Tennessee?
The demand for IT Risk Assessors is expected to grow due to increasing cyber threats and the need for organizations to comply with regulatory requirements. This trend is reflected in Tennessee's tech sector, which continues to expand.What types of industries employ IT Risk Assessors?
IT Risk Assessors are employed across various industries, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology. Any organization that utilizes information technology requires risk assessment to protect its data and maintain compliance.What is the average salary for IT Risk Assessors in Tennessee?
Salaries for IT Risk Assessors in Tennessee can vary based on experience, education, and location. As of the latest data, you can expect an average salary ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning more.Are remote opportunities available for IT Risk Assessors?
Yes, many organizations offer remote or hybrid work options for IT Risk Assessors. The increasing reliance on digital technologies has led to greater flexibility in work arrangements.What career advancement opportunities exist for IT Risk Assessors?
IT Risk Assessors can advance to higher-level positions such as Information Security Manager, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), or Risk Management Director. Obtaining additional certifications and developing leadership skills can facilitate this progression.What tools and technologies should an IT Risk Assessor be familiar with?
Familiarity with risk assessment tools, security information and event management (SIEM) systems, vulnerability management tools, and compliance management platforms is essential. Knowledge of programming languages and data analysis tools can also be beneficial.