Networking. Study for CCNA (vendor specific - cisco routers, etc, more in depth and difficult. CBT Nuggets training), Comptia Network (vendor neutral). Certification is not necessary, but the skills are.
General Cybersecurity knowledge
malware and attacks (types of attacks, viruses, worms, man in the middle)
preventative measures (antivirus, firewalls, IDS (intrusion detection system), IPS (intrusion prevention systen) - how they work
hackers, hacking methodology and software - who are they, what steps they take, what tools they use
hacking software (wireshark, Nmap, Cain & Abel)
social media, online identity, privacy, anonymity
Programming - good for some specializations
python
Soft Skills - presentation, analystical mind, ability to work with a team, networking
Job Types
Security Analyst/Infosec Analyst
entry level, no real skills specialty - general knowledge required
$45-70,000 US/year
Comptia Security Certification, ISC Systems Security Certified Practicioner, Knowledge of networks, firewals, IDS, IPS, Antivirus, Network+ or CCNA training
promote to Security Architect
maintain data and monitor security access
recommend and install appropriate tools and countermeasures
manage network, intrusion detection and prevention systems
apply patches, upgrade security measures
train fellow employees in security awareness and procedures
Security Architect
senior position, head of a security analyst team - more managerial less technical
$85 - 143,000 US/year
Security Analyst Skills, experience, CISM, PMP or other managerial certification
promotion to CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)
manage security team
prepare budget
spearhead audits and training
involved in hiring security analysts
define and create corporate security policies
Penetration Tester / Certified Ethical Hacker
$44-117,000 US/year
hardcore technical skills, deep understanding of windows and linux OS, strong knowlege of networking tools (Nmap, wireshark, Nessus, Metasploit framework, etc, programming, Comptia Security+, CEH & CISSP certifications
paid to hack - look for vulnerabilities
promotion to Security Architecht or Consultant
perform penetration tests against security systems and web based applications
conduct physical security assessments
use social engineering tactics to uncover security loopholes