As secure software development becomes a core focus for organizations worldwide, roles that specialize in the Secure Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) are in high demand. These positions focus on integrating security practices into every stage of software development to ensure applications are built with security in mind. Here are some common roles, their descriptions, and the key skills required for each.

1. Secure Software Development Engineer

Job Description:
A Secure Software Development Engineer works directly within development teams to implement secure coding practices and ensure that security requirements are met throughout the SDLC. They focus on embedding security controls in the code, conducting secure code reviews, and collaborating with other developers to reduce vulnerabilities early in the development process.

Responsibilities:

• Develop secure software solutions and implement security controls within the code.
• Conduct secure code reviews and vulnerability assessments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure secure coding practices are adhered to.
• Implement best practices for secure application design and mitigate common vulnerabilities.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of threat modeling and vulnerability assessment.
• Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Java, C++, Python).
• Knowledge of secure coding standards (e.g., OWASP, CERT).
• Experience with static and dynamic application security testing (SAST and DAST).

2. Application Security Engineer

Job Description:
An Application Security Engineer is responsible for designing and implementing security controls to protect applications during the SDLC. They perform security assessments, collaborate on threat modeling, and assist developers in integrating security testing tools into CI/CD pipelines.

Responsibilities:

• Perform application security assessments, including code reviews and penetration testing.
• Develop and maintain security policies for secure application development.
• Integrate security testing tools into CI/CD pipelines.
• Conduct threat modeling to identify risks and vulnerabilities in applications.

Required Skills:

• Familiarity with cloud security and container security concepts.
• Experience with security tools like Fortify, Checkmarx, or Veracode.
• Knowledge of SAST, DAST, and Interactive Application Security Testing (IAST).
• Understanding of secure software development practices and principles.

3. DevSecOps Engineer

Job Description:
A DevSecOps Engineer works at the intersection of development, security, and operations to automate security practices within the SDLC. They focus on integrating security into DevOps workflows, automating security testing, and ensuring compliance with security standards throughout the development pipeline.

Responsibilities:

• Integrate and automate security testing tools within CI/CD pipelines.
• Develop security as code and infrastructure as code (IaC) practices.
• Collaborate with DevOps and development teams to create secure workflows.
• Monitor and respond to security incidents within the development process.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash) for automation.
• Expertise in CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps).
• Experience with security tools for automated testing (e.g., Snyk, Twistlock).
• Knowledge of cloud platforms and infrastructure as code (Terraform, CloudFormation).

4. Security Architect

Job Description:
A Security Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the secure development framework, policies, and standards within the SDLC. They focus on creating secure architectures, defining security requirements, and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure applications meet security standards from design to deployment.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement security architecture principles and standards for applications.
• Define security requirements and best practices for secure development.
• Conduct architectural reviews and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with developers to implement secure design patterns.

Required Skills:

• Ability to perform threat modeling and risk assessment.
• Deep knowledge of secure software architecture and design principles.
• Familiarity with security frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO/IEC 27001).
• Experience with secure coding practices and application security tools.

5. Secure SDLC Consultant

Job Description:
A Secure SDLC Consultant provides expertise to organizations in implementing secure SDLC practices, often working with multiple clients to improve their application security posture. They guide teams on best practices, recommend security tools, and help establish a secure development framework tailored to the organization’s needs.

Responsibilities:

• Assess existing SDLC processes and identify areas for security improvements.
• Advise on secure coding practices, tools, and secure development frameworks.
• Conduct security training and workshops for development teams.
• Help clients implement a comprehensive secure SDLC program.

Required Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of secure SDLC methodologies and frameworks.
• Familiarity with security tools for code analysis and application testing.
• Strong consulting skills, including communication and presentation abilities.
• Certification in relevant security standards (e.g., CSSLP, CISSP) is preferred.

6. Software Security Analyst

Job Description:
A Software Security Analyst is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and responding to security threats within the SDLC. They conduct vulnerability assessments, analyze security test results, and provide recommendations for mitigating application security risks.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct vulnerability assessments on applications and report findings.
• Analyze security testing results and provide actionable recommendations.
• Track and manage security incidents throughout the SDLC.
• Work with development teams to remediate vulnerabilities.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in vulnerability management tools (e.g., Nessus, Qualys).
• Understanding of common software vulnerabilities (e.g., SQL injection, XSS).
• Experience with security testing methodologies and application risk management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

7. Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst

Job Description:
A Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst ensures that all software development activities align with industry standards and regulatory requirements. They work closely with developers to ensure compliance with security standards, conduct audits, and help establish secure software development policies.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance with security standards (e.g., PCI-DSS, HIPAA, GDPR).
• Conduct audits and reviews to verify adherence to secure SDLC policies.
• Maintain documentation of security policies and compliance requirements.
• Provide guidance on regulatory and security standards to development teams.

Required Skills:

• Knowledge of security compliance standards (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST).
• Familiarity with secure coding standards and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with compliance management and audit processes.
• Strong communication skills for policy enforcement and documentation.

8. Application Security Specialist

Job Description:
An Application Security Specialist works with developers to integrate security into each phase of the SDLC. They assess application risks, implement secure coding practices, and perform regular security assessments to minimize vulnerabilities.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with development teams to integrate security controls.
• Perform code reviews and vulnerability assessments.
• Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests.
• Develop and enforce secure coding guidelines.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of application security practices (e.g., OWASP Top Ten).
• Experience with security testing tools (e.g., Burp Suite, AppScan).
• Knowledge of secure coding practices and vulnerability management.
• Ability to conduct security assessments and penetration tests.

Additional Skills for All Secure SDLC Roles

• Knowledge of SDLC Models: Familiarity with SDLC methodologies, including Agile and DevOps.
• Communication Skills: Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate security concepts effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve security issues.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications, such as Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), are highly valued in these roles.

These roles play a vital part in securing software applications and ensuring they meet rigorous security standards. As secure SDLC practices continue to gain importance, demand for these roles is expected to grow, making this a promising field for security-minded developers and professionals.