Cyber Security Jobs in Kenya

Top cyber security jobs in Kenya! Learn about key roles, responsibilities, and qualifications needed for careers like Security Manager, SOC Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and more in Kenya’s growing cyber security sector.

Best Cyber Security Jobs in Kenya

Below is a comprehensive guide to the top cyber security jobs in Kenya, detailing the roles, responsibilities, and qualifications for each position.

1. Information & Cyber Security Manager

Role & Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement organizational cybersecurity strategies and policies.
• Oversee security operations, risk management, and compliance.
• Lead incident response and disaster recovery planning.
• Coordinate security awareness training for staff.
• Liaise with executive management on security posture and improvements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CompTIA Security+.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in cybersecurity management.
• Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills.

2. Senior Information Systems Security Officer

Role & Responsibilities:

• Monitor and secure information systems against threats.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.
• Investigate security incidents and coordinate response.
• Maintain security documentation and compliance records.
• Advise on system upgrades and security best practices.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, or related discipline.
• Certifications like CEH, CISSP, or GIAC.
• 3+ years’ experience in information security.
• Strong technical and analytical skills.

3. Cyber Security Engineer

Role & Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and maintain security infrastructure (firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM).
• Analyze security breaches and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Perform regular security audits and risk assessments.
• Support incident detection and response efforts.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or Engineering.
• Certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CEH, or Cisco CCNA Security.
• Experience with network and application security tools.
• Problem-solving and scripting skills.

4. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst

Role & Responsibilities:

• Monitor network traffic and system logs for suspicious activity.
• Respond to and investigate security alerts and incidents.
• Document and escalate incidents as required.
• Conduct threat intelligence analysis and reporting.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Information Technology or related field.
• Certifications like CompTIA Security+ or SANS GCIH.
• Experience with SIEM platforms and incident response tools.
• Analytical mindset and attention to detail.

5. Security Risk Management Specialist

Role & Responsibilities:

• Identify, assess, and prioritize organizational cyber risks.
• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Conduct risk assessments and compliance audits.
• Prepare risk reports for management and regulatory bodies.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Risk Management, IT, or related area.
• Certifications such as CRISC or CISSP.
• Experience in risk assessment and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

6. Ethical Hacker / Penetration Tester

Role & Responsibilities:

• Simulate cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities in systems and applications.
• Prepare detailed reports on findings and recommend remediation.
• Collaborate with IT teams to fix security weaknesses.
• Stay updated on latest hacking techniques and security trends.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science, IT, or related field.
• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or OSCP certification.
• Hands-on experience with penetration testing tools (e.g., Metasploit, Burp Suite).
• Strong problem-solving skills.

7. IT Officer – Security Operations & Incident Response

Role & Responsibilities:

• Monitor IT infrastructure for security threats and incidents.
• Analyze and respond to security incidents, including containment and recovery.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and ensure compliance with security policies.
• Document incident investigations and escalate as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, GIAC).
• Experience with security monitoring tools and incident response processes.
• Strong analytical and technical skills.

8. Security Architect

Role & Responsibilities:

• Design secure IT architectures and frameworks.
• Evaluate and select security solutions for the organization.
• Lead security integration in new projects and technologies.
• Provide technical guidance on security best practices.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering.
• Certifications such as CISSP, SABSA, or TOGAF.
• Extensive experience in IT security architecture and design.
• Strong project management and communication skills.

9. Consultant – Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Role & Responsibilities:

• Advise organizations on cybersecurity governance and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and implement GRC frameworks and policies.
• Conduct audits and prepare compliance reports.
• Train staff on compliance requirements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, IT, or related field.
• Certifications like CISA, CRISC, or ISO 27001 Lead Implementer.
• Experience in risk management and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent communication and advisory skills.

10. Cybersecurity Business Development Manager

Role & Responsibilities:

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities in cybersecurity.
• Develop relationships with clients and partners.
• Advise clients on cybersecurity solutions and services.
• Stay updated on market trends and competitor offerings.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Business, IT, or related field.
• Experience in sales or business development within the tech sector.
• Understanding of cybersecurity products and services.
• Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills

How to Build a Career in Cyber Security in Kenya

1. Obtain Relevant Education: Pursue a degree in IT, Computer Science, or relevant cyber security courses in Kenya.
2. Gain Practical Experience: Internships and entry-level positions in IT or security departments provide hands-on skills.
3. Earn Certifications: Start with foundational certifications and progress to advanced ones like CISSP and CEH.
4. Stay Updated: Cyber threats evolve rapidly; continuous learning through courses, workshops, and conferences is vital.
5. Network: Join professional groups and attend industry events to connect with experts and discover job openings.
6. Apply for Jobs: Major employers actively recruiting include Equity Bank, Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Power, M-Pesa Africa, and Safaricom

Key Skills and Certifications in Demand

• Technical Skills: Network security, penetration testing, incident response, cloud security, and threat analysis.
• Certifications: CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+, CISM, CRISC, and OSCP are highly valued and can significantly boost earning potential.
• Soft Skills: Analytical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving

Conclusion

Cyber security jobs in Kenya are rapidly expanding, offering diverse opportunities for both entry-level and experienced professionals.

With the right mix of education, certifications, and hands-on experience, you can build a rewarding career in one of the country’s fastest-growing sectors. Now is the perfect time to invest in cybersecurity skills and join top cyber security companies in Kenya.