Cybersecurity in the Maritime Industry: 6 Top Roles in the Field

Key takeaways

The increasing digitization and automation of the maritime industry in recent years has amplified the risk of cybersecurity attacks. 

• Cyberattacks on the maritime industry can cause worldwide economic and environmental damage, loss of life among crew members, and disrupt humanitarian efforts to deliver supplies to people in need.

• Cybersecurity risks in the maritime industry include ransomware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, phishing, data modification, data theft, and social engineering.

• You can find cybersecurity jobs in the maritime industry that are similar to those in other sectors, like penetration testers, cybersecurity analysts, incident response engineers, and ethical hackers.

Explore the importance of cybersecurity in the maritime industry and potential jobs you can consider in this area. If you’re ready to start preparing for a cybersecurity role, enroll in the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. You’ll have the opportunity to learn fundamental cybersecurity concepts like cyber threat intelligence, intrusion detection, incident response, and more in as little as six months. Upon completion, you’ll have earned a career certificate for your resume.

Importance of cybersecurity in the maritime industry 

According to the Waterfront Alliance, “The maritime industry is a critical part of global trade and economic development, playing an important role in transporting goods and resources across the world’s oceans [1],” and it affects the lives of billions of people around the world. Computers and technology play a massive role in running the maritime industry, which puts the entire industry at risk for cyberattacks. If a system is attacked, the global supply chain is at risk for disruption, which could cause significant economic damage. Software supply chain attacks are estimated to reach $60 billion in 2025, with projected costs to reach $138 billion by 2031 [2]. 

In addition to worldwide economic damage, cyberattacks on the maritime industry can lead to other important problems, like environmental damage or exposure of humans to dangerous pollutants. Within the industry, cyberattacks can also lead to the loss of life of crew members aboard ships. It can also disrupt humanitarian efforts to bring supplies to people in need.

What are the cybersecurity risks in the maritime industry?

The risk of cyberattacks has long persisted in the maritime industry. In 2021, hackers launched an attack on the Port of Houston, which prompted a swift response from the US government. Several European oil ports became targets in 2022 [3]. Ransomware is one common cyber risk in the maritime industry, and many shipping companies opt to pay so that they don't lose access to their data. According to the US Department of Transportation, hostile organizations from foreign countries also pose a threat. In 2023, it issued a warning that “proprietary foreign adversarial companies manufacture, install, and maintain port equipment that poses potential vulnerabilities to global maritime infrastructure information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems [4].”

Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks are common within the maritime industry. This occurs when criminals use multiple IP addresses to flood a company's information system with traffic so it's no longer accessible. Other common types of cyberattacks in the maritime industry include phishing, data modification, data theft, and social engineering. 

What is the maritime cybersecurity regulation?

New cybersecurity regulations issued by the US Coast Guard took effect on July 16, 2025 [5]. The regulations include minimum cybersecurity requirements such as developing and maintaining a cybersecurity plan, designating a cybersecurity officer (CySO), and implementing measures to sustain cybersecurity within the Marine Transportation System (MTS).

How much does maritime security get paid? 6 maritime cybersecurity jobs + salaries

Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field, and the need for jobs over the next few years is expected to grow at a rate of 29 percent, a much faster-than-average rate compared to other careers, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [6]. The types of cybersecurity jobs available in the maritime industry are similar to those in other sectors, including penetration testers and systems analysts. These jobs typically come with a competitive salary and a positive job outlook. 

Read more: 5 Cybersecurity Career Paths (and How to Get Started)

1. Penetration tester

A penetration tester essentially works on offense, testing websites, apps, and systems for vulnerabilities. For example, you might simulate a cyberattack to expose areas of weakness, generate a report about your findings, and make recommendations to prevent any future attacks. You might work directly for an organization, or you might work for a firm that services multiple organizations. 

US salary total pay range: $117,000 to $206,000 [7] 

Requirements: The requirements for becoming a penetration tester will vary from job to job, but you usually can start by gaining as many technical skills related to the job as possible. These might include learning JavaScript, Python, and C++. You can earn a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field and relevant certifications like the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or the OffSec Certified Professional (OSCP). 

2. Cloud security specialist

As a cloud security specialist, you'll work to ensure that an organization's data storage system is safe and secure from cyberattacks. This might mean executing regular security audits and risk assessments, finding ways to improve security, and implementing plans. Any organization that relies on the cloud for data storage may hire someone to fill this role, and it's considered one of the highest-demand jobs in cybersecurity. 

US salary total pay range: $122,000 to $224,000 [8] 

Requirements: As with most cybersecurity jobs, your technical skills and knowledge are key to getting a job in cloud security. A background in programming and a strong knowledge of cloud technology are helpful. You'll need an understanding of languages like Python, Go, Bash, and Java. You can also earn one or more certifications that can help you improve your cloud security skills, and you may find a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field beneficial. 

3. Incident response engineer

An incident response engineer is a member of the incident response team, which means that when an organization deals with a cyberattack, they're responsible for responding to the threat, reducing any damage caused, and investigating what happened so the team can prevent a future attack. This job requires plenty of technical know-how in areas like forensic software, cloud computing, major operating systems, and system monitoring tools. 

US salary total pay range: $103,000 to $173,000 [9]

Requirements: Jobs in this area typically require a bachelor's degree in computer science or cybersecurity. Potential employers may also require certifications like the GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH). Incident responders should have excellent communication and problem-solving skills. 

4. Cybersecurity analyst 

As a cybersecurity analyst, you may take on various tasks, depending on where you work and that organization's unique needs. This can range from setting up firewalls, investigating security breaches, conducting risk assessments, and writing incident reports. Ultimately, your job is to protect that organization's computer networks from cyber threats and attacks. 

US salary base pay range: $99,000 to $166,000 [10]

Requirements: To become a cybersecurity analyst, you'll typically need a degree in cybersecurity, math, engineering, computer and information technology, or a related field. Earning industry certifications, such as CompTIA's Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) credential, is also usually required for this type of job. More advanced roles as a cybersecurity analyst may require work experience in a related field. 

5. Ethical hacker

Ethical hackers, sometimes called white hat hackers, are professionals who purposely hack into an organization's website or network to expose vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. Like penetration testers, you'll use these simulated attacks to develop solutions to strengthen that organization’s cybersecurity system. You may have to write up a report or present your findings to stakeholders. 

US salary base pay range: $130,000 to $230,000 [11]

Requirements: Job requirements will vary from organization to organization, but many ethical hackers have an associate degree or bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Related coursework, certifications, and an understanding of certain technical skills, like Python programming, Microsoft and Linux security, and network security, may also help you get a job. 

6. Digital forensics examiner

Digital forensics examiners are sort of like detectives, but instead of solving crimes out on the streets, they help solve cybercrimes. In this role, you'll gather information left behind by hackers who commit a cyberattack and analyze your findings. You may also do some ethical hacking to help better understand the actions of those who perform criminal activity. 

US salary base pay range: $143,000 to $239,000 [12]

Requirements: To work in digital forensics, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in an area like cybersecurity, computer science, criminal justice, or computer forensics. Certifications and demonstration of human and technical skills may also be necessary for this role. A background in law enforcement can also be beneficial. 

What qualifications do you need for maritime security? Gaining the right skills

You can gain the skills you need for a career in cybersecurity in the maritime industry through many options, including previous work experience, formal education, and boot camps. Some people have a background in cybersecurity and transition to the maritime industry, but you can also transfer skills you've learned in other areas, ranging from customer service to education. 

Education

You don't necessarily need a degree to work in cybersecurity. Still, in some cases, it may be helpful to earn an associate, bachelor's degree, or master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, like computer science, math, information systems, or engineering. Otherwise, you may need a high school diploma with relevant experience and training. 

Work experience

Some employers prefer candidates with relevant work experience, which may come from fields other than technology. Many people come from industries like business administration, customer service, and hospitality. However, many others do have an IT background. Either way, be ready to showcase how your own unique experience has helped you develop important human skills needed for the field when you apply for a job. 

Boot camps

Many colleges and universities offer boot camps to gain important cybersecurity skills, practice with hands-on experience, and grow your professional network. Compared to earning a degree, boot camps are intensive, accelerated programs that allow you to gain skills in a much shorter amount of time. 

Certifications 

Earning a certification can help you gain skills and start your cybersecurity career. Some employers even prefer job candidates with certain industry-recognized certifications. Some common options include the CompTIA PenTest+, the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), the CompTIA Security+, and the ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certifications. 

Explore guides and resources to keep you on track

Join Career Chat on LinkedIn to get timely updates on popular skills, tools, and certifications in software development. Learn more about careers and trends in cybersecurity with our other free resources:

• Find your career track: Cybersecurity Career Paths: Explore Roles & Specializations 

• Watch on YouTube: How to Pivot Industries as a Cybersecurity Analyst 

• Explore important trends: How AI is changing cybercrime and cybersecurity

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