Unlock Your Potential: The Definitive Guide to the Benefits of an IRAP Assessor Career

Why Become an IRAP Assessor?

Enhanced Career Opportunities:

• The IRAP certification is a mark of expertise, opening doors to senior security consulting roles and high-profile government projects.
• You'll gain recognition as a subject matter expert in Australian government security frameworks, making you highly sought after.
• The need for IRAP assessments is constantly growing, ensuring a stable and expanding career path.

Financial Rewards:

• Assessors report significant salary increases, with some experiencing a 15-20% boost. Contracting opportunities can also lead to substantial hourly rates.
• One assessor stated “I originally had a $5k incentive in my contract to obtain the endorsement. Once I went contracting the daily rate was a significant increase, to triple figures an hour, however, it comes with the risks of contracting.”

Intellectual Stimulation and Variety:

• Each assessment presents unique challenges, keeping your skills sharp and your knowledge up-to-date.
• You'll work with diverse technologies and environments, preventing career stagnation.
• As one assessor put it, “The variety of projects and the constant learning. Every assessment is different, and I'm always encountering new technologies and challenges.”

Contribution to National Security:

• You'll play a vital role in safeguarding sensitive information within Australian government systems.
• The work provides a sense of purpose and the satisfaction of contributing to a secure digital environment.

Professional Respect and Recognition:

• One assessor stated “I feel it comes with a nod of respect, that you’ve achieved something that many aim for.”
• The IRAP certification is highly regarded within the cybersecurity community.

How to Become an IRAP Assessor:

Build a Strong Foundation:

• Gain experience in IT security, risk management, and compliance.
• Consider roles in systems administration, network engineering, or security operations to build a solid foundation of technical knowledge.
• One assessor’s journey progressed through a grad role with IBM, and then into security operations and GRC consulting, demonstrating that diverse paths can lead to this career.

Obtain Relevant Certifications:

• Pursue industry-recognized certifications like CISSP, CISM, CISA, and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor/Implementer from a reputable training provider.
• These certifications demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to professional development but is also a minimum certification requirement to be considered as an IRAP Assessor.
• One assessor stated “I felt choosing ISACA would reduce the financial overheads associated with a professional membership. I also felt CISM aligned with my previous experience as an IT Security Advisor, and the CISA attracted me due to the directly translatable skills of auditing, to an IRAP assessment.”

Gain Practical Experience:

• Seek opportunities to participate in security assessments and audits.
• Familiarize yourself with the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) Information Security Manual (ISM) and other relevant standards.
• As one assessor stated, “The training provided a reference but for real world engagements experience is key.”

Network and Learn from Others:

• Connect with experienced IRAP Assessors and cybersecurity professionals.
• Attend industry events and participate in online forums.
• One assessor stated “Leverage the experience of those who have been before you and don’t be afraid to reach out!”

Develop Essential Skills:

• Hone your communication and interpersonal skills, especially rapport building and elicitation techniques.
• One assessor emphasized the importance of “rapport building and elicitation techniques,” highlighting the need for strong interpersonal skills. “You’re going in to conduct an audit, people can often be defensive and on guard, building rapport quickly is critical”.
• Cultivate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Pursue IRAP Training and Certification:

• Complete the necessary IRAP training and pass the certification exam.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest changes to the ISM and IRAP requirements.

Obtain NV-1 Clearance:

• This can be sponsored by ASD once you pass your IRAP training and exam.

Key Advice from Experienced Assessors:

• “Your knowledge has to be at least an inch deep, but a mile wide.”
• “It’s actually quite challenging work and not for everyone.”
• “Don't be afraid to reach out!”

By following these steps and embracing the challenges, you can unlock a fulfilling and prosperous career as an IRAP Assessor.

ALC Training has over two decades experience in providing high quality cyber security training. Our trainers are cyber security consultants with real world experience and practical insight. We would love to help you with your IRAP learning journey, visit our website for more information https://alctraining.com.au/alc/unlock-your-future-as-an-irap-assessor/