Cybersecurity job market analysis 2024: key findings and insights

This analysis is based on current year data (9 months) from Canadian Cybersecurity Jobs , owned by the Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN). As Canada’s largest cybersecurity job site, it provides a comprehensive view of the demand for cybersecurity talent across the country.

Overview of Job Categories

The data from 2024 reveals significant demand across several key job categories:

• Information Security is the leading category with 2,900 job postings, underscoring a critical need for professionals focused on protecting data and ensuring information security. This high demand reflects growing concerns over data breaches and the increasing complexity of cyber threats. As organizations become more data-driven, the need for robust information security measures has never been more apparent. Canadian companies are particularly focused on hiring talent that can help them navigate the evolving landscape of cyber regulations and data privacy laws.
• Engineering roles, with 2,180 postings, are in second place. This category highlights the need for technical expertise in designing secure systems and infrastructure. The demand for engineers with cybersecurity knowledge is fueled by the integration of security into all stages of software development and network management. The rise of cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G technologies in Canada has further driven the demand for cybersecurity engineers who can build and maintain secure architectures.
• Sales/Sales Operations positions account for 854 job postings, reflecting the strong market for cybersecurity products and services. With cybersecurity becoming a top priority for organizations worldwide, there is a significant need for skilled professionals who can effectively market and sell cybersecurity solutions. This trend is likely to continue as businesses increasingly seek to protect their digital assets and comply with stringent regulatory requirements.
• Legal/Privacy roles are also prominent, with 535 job postings. This demand indicates a growing focus on compliance, data privacy, and the legal aspects of cybersecurity. As Canada aligns itself with global data protection standards, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, the need for legal experts who understand the intricacies of cybersecurity law and privacy regulations is becoming more pronounced.
• Executive roles remain relatively rare, with only 101 postings. However, this reflects the specialized nature of cybersecurity leadership positions, which require a blend of technical knowledge, strategic vision, and management skills. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of having cybersecurity leaders at the executive level to guide their digital transformation and risk management strategies.

Top Job Titles and In-Demand Skills

Among the most frequently posted job titles, Security Analyst and Cyber Security Analyst top the list with 358 and 204 postings, respectively. These roles are crucial for monitoring and responding to cyber threats, reflecting a shift towards proactive cybersecurity strategies. Organizations are investing in talent that can not only detect and respond to incidents but also anticipate and mitigate future risks. This is particularly relevant in a landscape where ransomware attacks and advanced persistent threats (APTs) are becoming more sophisticated and widespread.

Senior Software Engineers (176 postings) and Information Security Analysts (172 postings) are also in high demand, suggesting that organizations are looking for professionals with both development and security expertise. The integration of security into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) is now a standard practice, making it essential for software engineers to have a strong understanding of security principles. This trend is aligned with the global shift towards DevSecOps, where security is embedded into the development process from the start.

Network Engineers (166 postings) continue to be sought after, as securing network infrastructure remains a fundamental aspect of any organization’s cybersecurity strategy. With the increasing prevalence of remote work and cloud-based services, ensuring the security of networks has become more challenging, driving demand for network engineers with specialized cybersecurity skills.

Employment Trends and Market Dynamics

The vast majority of job postings (8,143) are for full-time positions, indicating a strong employer preference for long-term hires in cybersecurity roles. This trend is consistent with the critical nature of cybersecurity functions, which require ongoing monitoring, response, and strategy implementation. Organizations are increasingly recognizing cybersecurity as a core business function rather than a peripheral concern, leading to stable, long-term employment opportunities in this field.

Contract positions (1,023 postings) also represent a significant portion of the market, particularly for project-based work and specialized expertise. This reflects the growing trend of organizations seeking flexible and scalable cybersecurity solutions, which can be adapted to their specific needs and threat landscapes.

There are also opportunities for students and interns (with 205 COOP positions and 62 internships), highlighting the industry's efforts to cultivate the next generation of cybersecurity talent. This aligns with the broader trend of increasing collaboration between industry and academia to bridge the skills gap in cybersecurity. CCN's work with over 25 university and colleges with cybersecurity programs, are examples of how organizations are proactively engaging with educational institutions to provide hands-on experience and mentorship to aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

Geographic Distribution and Regional Insights

Geographically, Toronto, Ontario is the leading hub for cybersecurity jobs in Canada, with the highest number of postings (1,286 and an additional 479 postings in alternative listing formats). This concentration reflects Toronto’s status as Canada’s financial and technological center, where demand for cybersecurity talent is particularly high to protect critical financial infrastructure and tech innovations.

Other cities such as Vancouver (438 postings) and Calgary (298 postings) also show strong demand, driven by their growing tech sectors and the presence of major enterprises in various industries, including natural resources and healthcare. Halifax (79 postings) and Winnipeg (75 postings) show moderate demand, while Fredericton (15 postings) has fewer opportunities, reflecting its smaller market size.

Government Participation in Cybersecurity Hiring

Notably, only 0.77% of job postings are from government employers. This low percentage suggests that while the private sector is actively recruiting to enhance its cybersecurity capabilities, there is a relatively limited hiring push from government entities. Given the increasing number of cyber threats targeting public infrastructure and services, this trend presents a potential area for growth. Strengthening public sector cybersecurity capabilities could become a critical focus for Canadian policymakers in the coming years.

Conclusion

The cybersecurity job market in Canada is dynamic and rapidly evolving, with significant demand for skilled professionals across various categories and job titles. While private sector organizations lead the hiring efforts, there is room for increased public sector engagement to enhance national cybersecurity resilience. The data highlights the importance of continued investment in cybersecurity talent development, collaboration between industry and academia, and a comprehensive approach to securing Canada's digital future.

Canadian Cybersecurity Jobs, as the leading platform for cybersecurity opportunities in Canada, provides a valuable resource for employers and job seekers alike to navigate this complex and growing field.