AI and the Changing Face of Entry-Level Cybersecurity Hiring

Hiring Reset

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing how companies hire for entry-level cybersecurity roles. A recent article by John Leyden in CSO Online (September 18, 2025) shows how this shift is reshaping the skills employers want and the way organizations must think about building future cyber teams.

Soft Skills Over Technical Knowledge

The study from ISC2 found that teamwork, problem-solving, and analytical thinking now rank higher than technical skills such as cloud security. AI tools are taking over many routine monitoring and detection tasks. This means employers are searching for human skills that machines cannot replace. Strong communication and the ability to work across departments are now critical.

Employers want entry-level staff who can think strategically. As one expert noted, security is no longer locked inside the IT team. Cybersecurity professionals must work with legal, HR, and even marketing. This requires adaptability and strong people skills.

The Broken Pipeline

The hiring pipeline for entry-level cybersecurity jobs has long been criticized. Many organizations still demand degrees and certifications that block talented candidates from entering the field. Experts argue that this narrow focus shuts out people with practical skills, creative thinking, and valuable experience. Apprenticeships and internships exist but remain limited. Without new pathways, many potential professionals drift into other industries.

Some voices also call for recognizing non-traditional talent. Gamers, builders, and curious tinkerers often have the problem-solving mindset that security roles demand. Criminalizing youthful experimentation, rather than guiding it, risks losing a generation of talent.

The AI Effect on Cyber Roles

AI is already altering the structure of cybersecurity jobs. The traditional level-one SOC analyst role may be replaced by automated tools that handle monitoring and triage. Instead, entry-level staff will need to focus on communication, business literacy, and advisory roles. This change means problem-solving and creativity are more valuable than ever.

Industry leaders stress that technical skills still matter. But they can be taught more easily than soft skills. Hiring for aptitude, adaptability, and willingness to learn may be the best way to close the growing skills gap. The global shortage of cybersecurity workers has now reached 4.8 million, a 19% increase from 2024. AI may help lighten the load, but people remain at the center of defense.

How OSRS Can Help

At ÒGÚN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC (OSRS), we understand this shift in cybersecurity hiring. We support organizations in identifying, training, and developing the next generation of cybersecurity talent. Our programs emphasize both technical knowledge and human skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.

We also work with academic institutions, government agencies, and private companies to design training and apprenticeship pathways. These pathways expand opportunities for underrepresented groups and bring non-traditional talent into the field. OSRS believes the future of cybersecurity depends on inclusive hiring and skills development that AI cannot replace.

Source: John Leyden, AI is altering entry-level cyber hiring — and the nature of the skills gap, CSO Online, September 18, 2025.