Automation, AI, and Budget Cuts: Why Cybersecurity Jobs Are at Risk
Is cybersecurity still a safe career? The 2025 job market shake-up
Cybersecurity has long been considered a recession-proof career, with increasing cyber threats driving demand for security professionals.
However, 2025 has brought unexpected challenges, and some cybersecurity professionals are finding themselves unemployed.
What’s happening, and how can security experts adapt?
Let’s explore the key reasons behind these job losses and what you can do to stay ahead.
1. Economic downturn and budget cuts
While cybersecurity remains critical, companies facing financial struggles are cutting costs, and security teams are not immune.
Layoffs in Tech and Startups – Many startups and tech companies that aggressively hired cybersecurity talent in previous years are now scaling back.
Budget Reductions – Organizations are consolidating security roles, leading to fewer positions.
How to Adapt:
Focus on cybersecurity roles that align with business risk and compliance.
Demonstrate how security investments save money in the long run.
2. AI and automation are replacing entry-level jobs
With the rise of AI-powered security tools, companies are automating many routine tasks.
SIEM and SOAR Platforms – Automated incident response tools are reducing the need for junior SOC analysts.
AI-Based Threat Detection – AI is identifying and responding to threats faster than humans.
How to Adapt:
Learn to work with AI, not against it—develop skills in AI-driven security analysis and automation.
Move beyond entry-level roles by upskilling in threat hunting, cloud security, and advanced incident response.
3. Shift towards outsourcing and MSSPs
Many organizations are outsourcing security functions to Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) to reduce costs.
Companies prefer MSSPs for 24/7 monitoring instead of maintaining in-house SOC teams.
Large consulting firms are absorbing security operations from smaller businesses.
How to Adapt:
Consider transitioning to MSSPs or consulting firms where demand remains high.
Develop expertise in cloud security and compliance to stay relevant.
If you are on a in-house SOC setup, consider acquiring new skills like Incident Response, Threat Hunting, Malware Analysis and Threat Intelligence.
4. Skills gaps and mismatched hiring expectations
Despite layoffs, many cybersecurity jobs remain unfilled because employers struggle to find professionals with the right skills.
Companies want multi-skilled professionals (e.g., cloud security + threat intelligence).
Many laid-off professionals lack expertise in emerging fields like zero-trust security and DevSecOps.
How to Adapt:
Continuously update your skills in high-demand areas like cloud security, AI security, and risk management.
Gain hands-on experience through certifications like CCSP (Cloud Security), OSCP (Offensive Security), and CISSP (Leadership & Strategy).
Focus on providing value to your organization. Ask yourself, “Do I still provide value to the company in my day-to-day work?”.
5. Compliance-driven hiring trends
Regulations are pushing companies to focus more on Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) roles rather than traditional security operations.
Companies need professionals who understand frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, SOC 2 and GDPR.
Cyber insurance requirements are influencing security hiring decisions.
How to Adapt:
If you're a technical professional, consider expanding into GRC roles.
Gain expertise in risk assessment and compliance frameworks.
Even if you are in a technical role, get exposure in GRC work to learn what they do so you can add that to your career portfolio.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Cybersecurity Jobs
While cybersecurity layoffs in 2025 are a reality, the field isn’t shrinking—it’s evolving.
Professionals who stay adaptable, embrace new technologies, and upskill in high-demand areas will continue to thrive.
The key is to stay ahead of industry shifts, continuously learn, and align your skills with emerging trends.
Are you seeing layoffs in cybersecurity?
How are you adapting?
Let me know in the comments!
LET’S BUILD TOGETHER
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I’m here to help you grow, learn, and succeed in the world of cybersecurity.
Thank you for joining me on this journey.
Here’s to learning, sharing, and making an impact together!
With you on this cyber path,
Jeff