SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) is a compliance framework by AICPA auditing security controls, availability, processing integrity, and confidentiality of B2B SaaS platforms. Required for enterprise sales, required by customers, and mandated for government contracts. Involves designing controls, documenting procedures, implementing monitoring, and passing third-party audits. Learnable in 6–8 weeks with guidance. Salaries for compliance engineers range $110K–$160K. Overlaps with information security, risk management, and internal audits.
SOC 2 (Service Organization Control) is a compliance certification issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It evaluates whether a service organization (SaaS platform, cloud provider, MSP) has adequate controls over security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. SOC 2 is not a checkbox, it requires designing and operating controls, documenting procedures, conducting regular risk assessments, and passing a third-party audit. SOC 2 Type II (the gold standard) audits controls over 6–12 months, proving they work reliably. Customers require Type II for procurement and compliance. Types I and II differ: Type I is a point-in-time snapshot; Type II demonstrates control operating effectiveness over time.
| Region | Junior | Mid | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | $80k | $120k | $165k |
| UK | $50k | $75k | $110k |
| EU | $55k | $80k | $120k |
| CANADA | $70k | $110k | $150k |
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