Cryptography is the art and science of hiding and deciphering information through the use of codes. Government agencies, private industries and military organizations need individuals trained in cryptography for a variety of jobs, ranging from code makers and code breakers to language analysts and information security specialists. Some jobs might require candidates to hold high-level security clearances. Individuals who work in cryptography are commonly referred to as cryptologists.
The U.S. Navy offers multiple jobs for cryptologists. Cryptologic maintenance technicians install, maintain and repair the electronic cryptologic systems the Navy uses for communications, analysis, security, monitoring, tracking and other military purposes. Interpretive technicians use their foreign language and computer skills to collect and analyze foreign-language communications. The U.S. Navy also employs network technicians and collection technicians in the field of cryptography.
Private business enterprises use cryptologists to protect proprietary information from corporate espionage. These information security analysts use information technology to keep an organization safe from cyber attack from either competitors or malicious computer hackers. Information security analysts develop and implement cyber-protection protocols and continually update these protocols to take advantage of the latest developments in Web security.
Agencies of the federal government hire cryptologists to aid in the national battle against terrorism. The National Security Agency trains and employs cryptanalysts to investigate information systems to uncover hidden aspects within that system, such as encrypted features and parameters that might be used to convey or receive sensitive information. The resulting information helps the NSA in its core directive of providing critical intelligence to leaders at the highest levels of government.
Entry-level requirements for the cryptography field vary based on the needs of the employer, but minimum education includes a bachelor's degree in mathematics or computer science. Candidates with advanced degrees at the master's or Ph.D. level have greater employment options. GovInfoSecurity reports that cryptologists typically need proficiency in a language other than their native tongue, should be excellent researchers and have expertise in their specific targeted field.
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- GovInfoSecurity: The Cryptology Profession - Its Evolution, Growth, Skill Set and Career Prospects
- U.S. Navy: Cryptology
- O*NET OnLine: Cryptologist
- National Security Agency: Cryptanalysis/Signals Analysis
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: What Information Security Analysts, Web Developers, and Computer Network Architects Do
- Navy CS: Navy Cryptologic Technician
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