It Risk Analyst Job Requirements and Skills for Success

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To be a successful IT Risk Analyst, you'll need a unique blend of technical and business skills. A bachelor's degree in a field like computer science, information assurance, or business is typically required.

A strong foundation in risk management principles and practices is essential. This includes knowledge of risk assessment methodologies, such as the NIST Risk Management Framework.

Effective communication is also crucial, as you'll need to present complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders. This includes IT professionals, business leaders, and even board members.

In addition to technical skills, IT Risk Analysts must also have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and mitigate potential risks.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

To become an IT Risk Analyst, you'll need to meet certain qualifications, which typically include education, certification, and experience.

A bachelor's degree in a field like computer science, information systems, or a related field is often required for this role.

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Certifications like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) can also be beneficial for IT Risk Analysts.

In addition to formal education and certifications, many IT Risk Analysts have several years of experience in the field, often starting out in entry-level positions and working their way up.

Duties & Responsibilities

As an IT risk analyst, your duties and responsibilities are crucial to protecting a company's information systems from cyber threats. You'll be responsible for identifying threats and conducting risk assessments to address cyber security risks.

Your role involves monitoring network activity and conducting audits to identify areas of vulnerability. You'll also be tasked with developing and implementing a cyber security defense strategy, including safety protocols and disaster recovery procedures.

Some of the key responsibilities of an IT risk analyst include:

  • Identify threats and conduct risk assessments to address cyber security risks
  • Monitor network activity, conduct audits, and identify areas of vulnerability
  • Develop and implement a cyber security defense strategy, including safety protocols and disaster recovery procedures
  • Implement security controls such as data encryption, firewalls, and security software
  • Research and evaluate data from various sources to identify new threats, trends, issues, and opportunities to improve processes
  • Understand and provide advice on managing cybersecurity risks; collaborate with other IT professionals as needed to address new emerging threats

Your job description may also include tasks such as implementing firewalls, security software, data encryption, and other security measures. You'll be responsible for conducting threat analysis to identify threats and cyber security risks to a company's information systems.

Skills and Certifications

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To become an IT risk analyst, you'll need to acquire relevant certifications. The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) by ISACA is one of the certifications required, as well as the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) by ISACA and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) by ISC2.

These certifications demonstrate your expertise in IT risk analysis and management. To be eligible for CRISC certification, you'll need to meet the experience requirements and adhere to the Code of Professional Ethics and Continuing Professional Education Policy.

Here are some of the key certifications required for an IT risk analyst:

  • CRISC by ISACA
  • CISA by ISACA
  • CISSP by ISC2

Note that candidates have five years from passing the exam to apply for CRISC certification, and the application processing fee is $50.

Licensing or Certifications

To become an IT risk analyst, you'll need to acquire the right certifications. The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification by ISACA is a good place to start.

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Some of the certifications required for the position include CISA, CISSP, CISM, CRISC, ISACA, SOX, CRSC, ISO, CISCO, and SAFR. These certifications demonstrate your expertise in risk management and information systems control.

To become CRISC certified, you'll need to pass the certification exam and pay a US$50 application processing fee. You'll also need to submit an application to demonstrate your experience requirements and adhere to the Code of Professional Ethics and Continuing Professional Education Policy.

Here are some of the certifications you can pursue as an IT risk analyst:

  • CISA by ISACA
  • CISSP by ISC2
  • CRISC by ISACA
  • CERA by Institute and Faculty of Actuaries
  • CERA by Society of Actuaries

Note that candidates have five years from passing the exam to apply for CRISC certification.

Skills

Having the right skills is essential for a successful career in IT governance.

The CRISC exam focuses on the responsibilities of those who implement or manage governance of enterprise IT, which includes skills such as risk management and IT service management.

To prepare for the CRISC exam, you can use a comprehensive reference guide like the CRISC Review Manual (Digital Version).

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Studying for the CRISC exam requires a strong foundation in IT governance principles and practices.

The CRISC Review Manual (Digital Version) is a valuable resource that can help you understand the responsibilities of CRISC holders.

Having a solid understanding of IT governance concepts is crucial for a CRISC holder's success.

The CRISC exam is designed to test a candidate's knowledge of IT governance principles and practices, including risk management and IT service management.

A CRISC holder's responsibilities include implementing and managing governance of enterprise IT, which requires strong skills in IT governance.

Certification and Training

To become a certified IT risk analyst, you'll need to acquire relevant certifications and training. CISA, CISSP, CISM, CRISC, ISACA, SOX, CRSC, ISO, CISCO, and SAFR are some of the licenses or certifications required for the position.

To be endorsed as an IT risk analyst, you'll need to acquire certifications such as Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) by ISACA, Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) by ISACA, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) by ISC2.

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Passing the CRISC certification exam is just the first step in becoming certified. To become CRISC certified, you must first meet the following requirements: pass the certification exam, pay the US$50 application processing fee, submit an application to demonstrate experience requirements, adhere to the Code of Professional Ethics, and adhere to the Continuing Professional Education Policy.

You have five years from passing the exam to apply for CRISC certification. To prepare for the exam, ISACA offers a variety of CRISC exam preparation resources, including group training, self-paced training, and study resources in various languages.

Here are some key CRISC exam preparation resources:

  • Group training
  • Self-paced training
  • Study resources in various languages
  • Online Engage community for exam guidance

Note that the CRISC Exam Content Outline will be updated effective 3 November 2025, so be sure to check for updated preparation material before purchasing.

Study Resources and Support

You can join a global virtual study group to prepare for the CRISC exam, which is a great way to connect with others who are going through the same process.

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The study group is a free resource that can provide valuable support and guidance as you work towards passing the exam.

There are also free CRISC practice quizzes available, which can help you test your knowledge of risk and information systems control with 10 free questions.

These quizzes are a great way to identify areas where you need to focus your studying and can help you feel more confident in your abilities.

If you prefer a more structured approach, you can take a CRISC online review course, which covers key concepts in governance, IT risk assessment, risk response and reporting, and information technology and security.

Engage Study Groups

If you're struggling to stay motivated while studying for the CRISC exam, joining a study group can be a great way to get support and guidance from others who are going through the same experience.

You can join a global virtual study group through Engage: CRISC Study Groups, which connects you with others preparing to take the exam.

These study groups can provide a sense of community and accountability, helping you stay on track with your studying.

The Engage study groups are a convenient option, allowing you to connect with others from around the world.

Learner Reviews

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The course has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 64.57% of learners giving it 5 stars.

Many learners have praised the course's structure, which has been described as "really well structured" by one reviewer.

However, some learners have experienced technical issues with the course's rhyming feature, which has been known to lag.

Despite this, the instructor has been commended for their ability to explain complex concepts clearly.

Here's a breakdown of the learner reviews:

Overall, the course has received positive feedback from learners, who have praised its structure and instructor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do risk analysts make good money?

Risk analysts can earn a median yearly salary of $102,120, making it a well-compensated career. However, starting salaries can be lower, around $59,510.

Sheldon Kuphal

Writer

Sheldon Kuphal is a seasoned writer with a keen insight into the world of high net worth individuals and their financial endeavors. With a strong background in researching and analyzing complex financial topics, Sheldon has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. His areas of expertise include Family Offices, Investment Management, and Private Wealth Management, where he has written extensively on the latest trends, strategies, and best practices.

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