DevSecOps (Development, Security, Operations) is one of the hottest areas in tech, blending software development with cybersecurity from day one.
The good news for newcomers: you don’t need decades of experience to land an entry-level DevSecOps job. With smart planning, practical training, and the right resources from Refonte Learning, you can break into DevSecOps quickly.
The global demand for cybersecurity talent is sky-high – roughly 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs are unfilled worldwide (750,000 in the US alone) now– so companies are eager to hire professionals who can integrate security into fast-paced DevOps teams.
This article will show you the easiest pathway into DevSecOps, covering the skills you need, how to gain experience without a prior job, and where to find entry-level DevSecOps roles.
Let’s jumpstart your cybersecurity career path and get you ready for DevSecOps jobs with no experience required!
What Are Entry-Level DevSecOps Roles?
Entry-level DevSecOps roles focus on integrating security into the software development lifecycle from the start. That means you’ll be working alongside developers and IT ops to ensure code is secure, systems are monitored, and vulnerabilities are caught early.
Job titles for beginners may vary – you might see Associate DevSecOps Engineer, Junior DevOps Security Engineer, or even Security Analyst (DevOps). The core idea is the same: you’re the bridge between development and security.
What does an entry-level DevSecOps engineer do? Typically, they assist senior team members with tasks like:
Setting up security tools in CI/CD pipelines: For example, configuring static code analysis or container vulnerability scans in Jenkins or GitLab.
Monitoring and responding to security alerts: Using tools to watch for intrusions or anomalies (often with popular monitoring platforms like Prometheus and Grafana) and documenting incidents.
Performing basic security audits: Running vulnerability assessments or checklist-based reviews under supervision.
Collaborating with developers: Helping developers fix identified security issues and understand secure coding practices.
Continuous learning: Entry-level DevSecOps staff often spend time learning new tools, attending security training, and staying updated on threats.
In other words, a junior DevSecOps professional is hands-on with both code and security but works under guidance. It’s a fantastic role to learn on the job.
And demand is strong: many organizations now recognize the need to “shift security left” in DevOps. Even if the job posting doesn’t explicitly say “DevSecOps,” having DevSecOps skills makes you a valuable hire in any DevOps or cloud team.
Industry Snapshot: Despite a recent trend of some companies consolidating roles, security skills in DevOps are still essential. A U.S. study found DevSecOps job postings dipped as automation increased, but this reflects roles evolving, not vanishing. In practice, companies are embedding security into DevOps roles – meaning your DevSecOps expertise can help you land a DevOps, SRE, or security engineer position faster.
Skills Required for Entry-Level DevSecOps
What do you need to know to get hired in DevSecOps? It’s a mix of foundational IT skills, security know-how, and DevOps tooling. Here’s a breakdown of key skills and how to acquire them (even if you have zero years of experience today):
Linux and Networking Basics: DevSecOps runs on servers and cloud platforms. You should be comfortable with Linux command line, basic system admin tasks, and networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, ports). If you’re new, start with a Linux fundamentals course or lab. Refonte Learning covers these basics to get beginners up to speed.
Programming/Scripting: You don’t need to be a full-time developer, but knowing a language like Python or Bash is extremely helpful for automation. Entry roles might involve writing scripts to automate security checks. Practice by writing small scripts (e.g., a Python script to parse log files for anomalies).
DevOps Tools (CI/CD & Cloud): Familiarize yourself with DevOps pipelines and cloud environments. Learn version control (Git) and CI/CD tools like Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or GitLab CI. Understand cloud basics on AWS or Azure. Since many DevOps pipelines are cloud-based, cloud security skills are a big plus. Refonte Learning’s DevSecOps program introduces CI/CD and cloud deployment security in a beginner-friendly way.
Security Fundamentals: This includes understanding common vulnerabilities and protection methods. Study OWASP Top 10 (common web app security risks), basic encryption concepts, and security best practices for coding and cloud. An entry-level DevSecOps engineer should know why things like XSS or SQL injection are bad and how to mitigate them. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ can build your foundation in cybersecurity basics.
Containers and Infrastructure as Code: Modern DevSecOps involves containers (Docker) and IaC (Terraform/CloudFormation). Learn how to secure container images and use tools like Kubernetes. For example, know what an insecure Docker image looks like versus one scanned for vulnerabilities. Refonte Learning DevOps Engineering program provides practical labs on container security (like scanning images and deploying secure Kubernetes configurations).
Monitoring & Logging Tools: DevSecOps often overlaps with observability. Gain familiarity with tools like Prometheus (metrics), ELK Stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana for logs), or others like Splunk and Grafana. These help you detect security issues in real-time. Don’t worry if you haven’t used them on the job – you can set them up in a lab (and we’ll discuss how later).
Soft Skills & Collaboration: Don’t overlook communication. DevSecOps means working with multiple teams. Being able to document findings, communicate issues to developers, and even contribute to project planning are valuable skills. Show that you can be a team player and explain technical issues clearly.
Refonte Learning offers a structured path to build these skills from scratch. Our Cybersecurity & DevSecOps program is tailored for beginners and covers everything from secure coding to cloud deployment security with hands-on practice.
The curriculum teaches DevSecOps practices like DAST and SAST (dynamic and static application security testing), Infrastructure as Code security, and OWASP principles, all with practical assignments and real-world case studies. By the end of such a program, you’ll have touched the tools and concepts that entry-level jobs require.
Certifications and Credentials
While not always mandatory, certifications can significantly boost your credibility when you have little work experience.
Hiring managers often use certs as a proxy for skills. Some valuable ones for DevSecOps beginners:
CompTIA Security+ – Validates core security knowledge (great for proving you know cybersecurity basics).
Certified DevSecOps Engineer (CDSOE) or DevSecOps Foundation/Practitioner – These are newer certifications (offered by organizations like DevOps Institute, EXIN, or practical DevSecOps platforms) that focus specifically on DevSecOps principles.
Cloud certifications – e.g., AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals to show cloud knowledge; even better, AWS/Azure Security specialty or DevOps Engineer cert to show you can secure cloud workloads.
Kubernetes & Container certs – e.g., CKA (Certified Kubernetes Administrator) or Docker Certified Associate; not security-specific but very relevant to the DevOps environment you’ll be securing.
Refonte Learning certificate – Upon completing courses or the internship program at Refonte, you receive certifications that demonstrate hands-on expertise. These can be mentioned on your resume to show you’ve done practical training.
Each certification you earn is a resume booster that can help offset a lack of job experience. Even labs and badges (e.g., from platforms like TryHackMe or hackathons) can showcase your skills. The goal is to present evidence that you know your stuff even if you haven’t worked formally in the field yet.
Gaining Experience Without “Experience” (Practical Pathways)
One of the biggest hurdles for newcomers is the classic “you need experience to get a job, but need a job to get experience.” DevSecOps is no exception – many job postings ask for 1-3 years of experience. So how can you land DevSecOps jobs with no experience? The answer: get hands-on in alternative ways.
Here are actionable strategies to build your experience before your first job:
Enroll in Hands-On Training or Bootcamps: A structured course that includes labs and projects can simulate real work. Refonte Learning’s virtual internship program is a prime example – it gives you real-world challenges in a controlled environment Over ~3 months, you work on securing pipelines, mitigating cyber threats, and automating security tasks, just like you would on the job. By completing such a program, you can truthfully say you’ve “worked on X and Y security implementations,” which counts as experience in employers’ eyes.
Build Your Home Lab: Set up a mini DevSecOps pipeline at home or on the cloud. For instance, create a simple web application and:
Use GitHub for version control,
Set up a CI pipeline (Jenkins or GitHub Actions) that runs a security scan (use an open-source SAST tool like SonarQube or an SCA tool for dependencies),
Deploy the app in a Docker container,
Monitor it with Prometheus and Grafana,
Send logs to an ELK Stack.
This might sound like a lot, but by tackling one piece at a time (and plenty of tutorials out there), you’ll gain practical DevSecOps skills. Document this project on a blog or your GitHub – it’s portfolio gold to show recruiters.
Contribute to Open Source: Open-source projects often welcome security improvements. You could start by contributing to documentation or writing test cases, then move to code or DevOps pipeline enhancements. For example, find a project on GitHub and see if you can add a GitHub Actions workflow that runs security tests, or improve their Docker security. Even a small contribution is proof of initiative. Listing open-source contributions on your resume shows passion and practical ability.
Take Part in CTFs and Hackathons: Capture The Flag competitions (like those on HackTheBox or by OWASP) and hackathons give you scenarios to solve. Some are security-focused, some DevOps-focused – both are useful. Participating in a DevSecOps-themed hackathon, for instance, might involve securing a CI/CD pipeline under time pressure. This is real experience! Mention these events in interviews to demonstrate your hands-on problem-solving.
Labs and Simulated Environments: If setting up your own projects is daunting, use platforms that provide ready-made labs. Websites like CyberRanges, TryHackMe, or even cloud provider sandboxes can let you practice things like configuring a firewall, running a vulnerability scan, or hacking and patching a sample application. Refonte Learning integrates lab work – every concept learned is applied in a lab setting or case study, which means by the end of training you have tackled a variety of practical tasks.
Create a Security Blog or Document Your Journey: As you learn, write about it. Blogging what you learned about “Deploying a simple DevSecOps pipeline” or “My first time using ELK Stack for monitoring” accomplishes two things: it reinforces your learning and acts as a public portfolio. When employers google you (and they often do), finding a blog or even well-documented GitHub repositories can set you apart from other entry-level candidates. It shows you’re serious about the field.
By following these steps, you essentially simulate years of experience in a condensed time frame. Many of our students at Refonte Learning have used these tactics to go from novices to employed in a matter of months.
The key is demonstrating practical capability. A hiring manager is much more likely to take a chance on someone who can say, “I’ve set up secure CI/CD pipelines in a lab and hold a DevSecOps certificate from Refonte Learning,” than someone who only studied theory.
Tip: Keep track of everything you do. Maintain a “Skills & Projects” portfolio document. List the tools you’ve used (Git, Docker, OWASP ZAP, Prometheus, etc.) and describe the project or lab where you used them. This will be invaluable when tailoring your resume or answering interview questions. Even contributions through Refonte’s program (like capstone projects or internship tasks) should be logged as experience.
Landing an Entry-Level DevSecOps Job
Now that you’ve built up skills and even some pseudo-experience, how do you actually land that first DevSecOps job? Here’s your roadmap to job hunting success:
1. Craft a Compelling Resume & Online Profile
Your resume should scream “I’m ready for DevSecOps” even if you haven’t held that title before. Highlight your skills, projects, and certifications prominently. For example:
Under “Projects” mention: “Implemented a CI/CD pipeline with integrated security testing (OWASP ZAP scans, container image scanning) and monitoring (Prometheus, ELK Stack) as part of Refonte Learning’s DevSecOps program.” This hits keywords like CI/CD, security testing, Prometheus, ELK that ATS systems and recruiters look for.
List relevant certifications and training in a dedicated section (Security+, DevSecOps Foundation, Refonte Learning Cybersecurity & DevSecOps certificate, etc.).
Emphasize transferable experience if you have any IT background. For instance, if you worked in helpdesk or as a software developer, mention any security or automation tasks you did there.
Use keywords from job postings (DevSecOps, cloud security, Kubernetes, etc.) – many entry-level DevSecOps jobs no experience required will still mention a bunch of tools. If you’ve touched them in labs, include them.
Also, ensure your LinkedIn is up to date with the same info. Join LinkedIn groups or communities related to DevSecOps and cybersecurity – sometimes recruiters post entry-level openings there.
2. Leverage Job Boards and Networks
Where can you find entry-level DevSecOps roles? Try these avenues:
General Job Boards: Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter. Use keywords like “DevSecOps junior”, “DevOps security entry”, “Security engineer fresher DevOps”. You’ll find roles that might not explicitly say “DevSecOps” but involve those tasks. (Example: some listings might be titled “Associate Cloud Security Engineer” or “Entry-Level DevOps (Security)” – those are relevant.)
Cybersecurity-Specific Job Boards: Sites like CyberSecJobs, ClearedJobs (if you have clearance), or the job boards on professional associations (ISC2, CompTIA) sometimes filter for entry-level roles.
Refonte Learning Career Support: If you trained with Refonte, take advantage of their network. They often have partnerships or an internal job portal (Refonte’s website even lists internships and jobs for their graduates). Being part of a learning community means you might get referrals or early notices of openings.
Networking: Attend virtual meetups or webinars on DevSecOps. The connections you make can refer you to opportunities. Don’t underestimate Twitter and Reddit as well – follow DevSecOps hashtags, engage in discussions. Sometimes job leads surface informally in those communities. If you contribute helpful insights (say, you share how you solved a lab exercise), people notice and remember you.
Company Programs: Large tech companies sometimes have associate programs or internships in security or SRE that welcome new grads or career changers. Examples: IBM’s Cybersecurity Analyst program, AWS cloud support associate (security track), etc. These can be a foot in the door, even if the title isn’t DevSecOps, you’ll gain relevant experience to pivot internally or to your next job.
3. Ace the Interview by Showcasing Your Skills
For an entry-level candidate, interviews will likely focus on your understanding of basics and your enthusiasm to learn. Be ready to:
Explain “What is DevSecOps?” and why it’s important. For instance, you might say it’s about embedding security into DevOps workflows to prevent late-stage vulnerabilities. Have a simple example ready, like how adding a security scan in a CI pipeline can catch a flaw before deployment.
Discuss Your Projects: Expect interviewers to ask about anything you listed on your resume. This is your chance to shine. Walk them through the project – e.g., “In my training at Refonte Learning, I set up a secure CI/CD pipeline. I integrated SAST using OWASP tools and monitored the app with Prometheus metrics. I also practiced incident response by handling a mock breach in the lab.” This not only shows what you did, but also that you can communicate it clearly (which scores points!).
Demonstrate Problem-Solving: They might pose scenario questions: “How would you secure a containerized application?” or “What steps would you take if a developer introduces a security bug?” Don’t panic – break it down logically. Mention tools or steps you learned. Refonte’s practical cases will help here, since you can draw on those experiences.
Show Willingness to Grow: Emphasize that you’re continuously learning (because DevSecOps is a fast-evolving field). You might mention you’re active on certain forums, working on the next certification, or already enrolled in an advanced module at Refonte Learning to deepen your skills. This assures them you’ll adapt on the job.
Remember, many employers hiring entry-level talent value attitude and aptitude over specific experience. If you can show that you’ve proactively trained yourself and you understand the DevSecOps mindset, you stand a great chance.
4. Consider Starting in Adjacent Roles
Sometimes the easiest way into DevSecOps is through a closely related entry role if a pure DevSecOps title is hard to find.
Don’t be afraid to start as a DevOps Engineer, Junior Developer, or Security Analyst and then transition. Working in any of those roles for a year can make you an even stronger DevSecOps candidate.
You’ll gain experience in one pillar (development, operations, or security) and can then leverage your cross-training to move into a dedicated DevSecOps position.
Many professionals eventually grow into DevSecOps after starting elsewhere – but by following this guide, you’ll have a head start by already knowing DevSecOps practices!
Finally, keep an eye on salary expectations for entry-level roles so you know your worth. In the United States, DevSecOps engineer salaries average around $101,000 per year, but that includes all experience levels.
An entry-level DevSecOps position might start lower (often in the range of $70,000 – $85,000 for junior positions, depending on location).
Don’t get too hung up on exact numbers for your first job – the priority is to get your foot in the door and gain real experience.
With time, DevSecOps professionals can command six-figure salaries as they move into mid-level and senior roles, especially if you stay current with new skills (cloud, container security, etc.). The career and pay trajectory is strongly in your favor once you break in.
Conclusion
Breaking into DevSecOps is easier than you might think – if you take a strategic, proactive approach. Start by building a strong foundation in IT, security, and DevOps basics.
Leverage Refonte Learning training platform to gain real experience through labs and projects, effectively shortcutting the “years of experience” requirement.
By acquiring the right skills (cloud, automation, security tools) and showcasing your hands-on work (projects, certs, contributions), you can position yourself as a high-value entry-level candidate.
Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Many successful DevSecOps engineers have come from non-traditional backgrounds – the common thread is a passion for security and continuous improvement. Stay curious, keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to apply even if you feel “not 100% ready.”
The easiest way in is to dive in – start your Cybersecurity & DevSecOps journey now, and soon you’ll be securing applications and pipelines like a pro, without having needed years of slog to get the
FAQs: Entry into DevSecOps Career Path
Q: Do I need a college degree to get into DevSecOps?
A: Not necessarily. While many cybersecurity jobs list a bachelor’s degree in CS or similar, it’s not a strict requirement. What you do need is proof of skills. Certifications, a portfolio of projects, or completion of a program like Refonte Learning’s DevSecOps course can carry as much weight as a formal degree for entry-level roles. Some companies may prefer a degree, but plenty of DevSecOps engineers have entered the field through alternative education paths.
Q: How can I get a DevSecOps job with no experience in the field?
A: Focus on hands-on learning and certifications. Gain experience by doing – set up your own DevSecOps projects, contribute to open source, or attend a cybersecurity bootcamp. Highlight these practical experiences on your resume. Additionally, target companies that hire fresh talent or have trainee programs. Show passion and a portfolio. Employers know there’s a shortage of talent, so if you can demonstrate skills (through labs, Refonte Learning projects, etc.), you can land a DevSecOps job without prior work experience in it.
Q: What entry-level jobs are good stepping stones to DevSecOps?
A: Look at roles like Junior DevOps Engineer, Security Analyst I, Cloud Engineer (entry level), or QA Engineer with security focus. In fact, any job where you can get exposure to either security or automation could be a stepping stone. For example, a junior DevOps role will teach you CI/CD and cloud – you can then infuse security into it. Likewise, an entry security analyst job might involve vulnerability scanning and incident response – you can then bring that knowledge to a DevOps team. Many professionals become DevSecOps engineers after first working in one of these areas. With Refonte Learning training, you might even skip directly to a combined role if you find a company open to hiring a newbie DevSecOps engineer.
Q: What are the best resources to learn DevSecOps for beginners?
A: There are a ton of resources! Some of the best include:
– Refonte Learning’s Cybersecurity & DevSecOps program (great structured learning with mentorship).
– Online courses and labs on platforms like Coursera, Udemy (search for DevSecOps courses), or Cyber Academy.
– Documentation and communities: The official docs for tools (Kubernetes, Jenkins, OWASP ZAP, Prometheus) are useful and communities on Reddit (r/devsecops) and Stack Exchange can help when you’re stuck.
– Books and blogs: For example, the book “DevSecOps Handbook” provides an excellent overview of culture and practices. Following blogs of DevSecOps practitioners or companies (like the Refonte Learning blog or Medium articles) can keep you updated on real-world practices.
Combine these resources with actual practice. It’s the mix of knowledge + doing that will make you job-ready.
Q: How much can I expect to earn in an entry-level DevSecOps position?
A: Entry-level DevSecOps roles in the US typically range from about $70,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on region and company size. Some reports show entry DevSecOps engineers around ~$77k mediann. Globally, it varies – in regions like Europe or Asia, the numbers might be lower in absolute terms but still very comfortable relative to cost of living. The key is the growth: DevSecOps professionals often see quick salary increases as they gain experience. With a year or two under your belt, jumping into the six-figures range is common, especially if you continue upskilling (e.g., learning cloud security in depth, advanced DevSecOps tools, etc.). A typical mid-level DevSecOps Engineer in the US can earn $120k-$150k, and senior roles go well beyond that. So, your first job is just the start of a lucrative career path.
Q: Is DevSecOps a good career path for the long term?
A: Absolutely. DevSecOps isn’t a fad – it’s a response to a real need in the industry to build secure software faster. As long as cyber threats exist and companies demand rapid software delivery, DevSecOps skills will be in demand. In fact, the role may evolve with technology (for example, incorporating AI-driven security tools), but the core skillset you build now will remain relevant. DevSecOps also opens doors to various related careers: you could grow into a Security Architect, Site Reliability Engineer, or Cloud Security Manager over time. The career path often branches out and up. With continuous learning, you’ll find DevSecOps to be a rewarding and stable career choice.