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Co Op Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

VTG is looking for multiple levels of Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. The role involves evaluating information systems and recommending changes to improve security posture, while ...

Penetration Tester LOCATION Aurora, CO 80014 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a highly skilled and proactive ...

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Penetration Tester LOCATION Aurora, CO 80014 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a highly skilled and proactive ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$113K - $237K/yr

Penetration Tester Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to ... Participate in fun team outings and team building events where you get to engage with your co ...

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Co Op Penetration Tester information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do co op penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for co op penetration tester in the United States is $119,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,000.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a co op penetration tester?

A Co Op Penetration Tester is an intern or cooperative education student who assists in identifying security vulnerabilities in an organization's systems, networks, and applications. They typically work under the guidance of experienced security professionals, performing tasks like vulnerability assessments, exploit development, and security testing. This role provides hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, techniques, and methodologies used in ethical hacking. It is an opportunity for students to gain practical cybersecurity skills and contribute to strengthening an organization's security posture.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a co op penetration tester?

As a Co Op Penetration Tester, you will typically assist with vulnerability assessments, network and application penetration testing, and reporting on security findings. You may contribute to real-world simulations of cyberattacks, document vulnerabilities, and support remediation efforts alongside experienced security professionals. This role often involves hands-on use of industry-standard testing tools and opportunities to learn from senior team members in a collaborative environment. Additionally, you'll gain exposure to best practices in ethical hacking and have the chance to present your findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the co op penetration tester position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Co Op Penetration Tester, you need foundational knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, network protocols, and vulnerability assessment, typically supported by coursework in computer science or information security. Familiarity with tools like Kali Linux, Metasploit, Nmap, and an understanding of security frameworks such as OWASP Top Ten is highly beneficial, as are certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are key soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate identification of security weaknesses, clear reporting, and productive teamwork in fast-paced, real-world assessment scenarios.

More about Co Op Penetration Tester jobs

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Cities with the most Co Op Penetration Tester job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Tester jobs?

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What states have the most Co Op Penetration Tester jobs?

States with the most job openings for Co Op Penetration Tester jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Co Op Penetration Tester jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Co Op Penetration Tester jobs are:

Infographic showing various Co Op Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA

$150K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Overview

VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in Chantilly VA & Auroro CO)

A Penetration Tester (Pen Tester) is a security professional who reviews and evaluates NRO ISs and recommends changes to the Government that can improve information confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security posture of NRO ISs.
 
Travel: 25% estimate for pen testers (OCONUS travel 2x per year).

What will you do?
Pen Tester, Level 2 (Intermediate) Functional Description: In addition to being responsible for performing basic reconnaissance and vulnerability scanning in accordance with established testing methodologies; identifies common vulnerabilities that can be potentially exploited, documents and reports findings. Possess basic scripting abilities and an understanding of network fundamentals and vulnerability scanning tools. the Level 2 Pen Tester is responsible for conducting more complex penetration tests, exploring more complex vulnerability analysis including misconfigurations and zero-day exploits, and developing more sophisticated exploitation techniques. Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders. Possess expertise in network protocols, application security, social engineering, and advanced scripting.
 
Pen Tester, Level 3 (Senior) Functional Description: In addition to achieved duties described in Level 2, the Pen Tester is responsible for designing and leading complex penetration tests, develops customized tools and methodologies; providing expert guidance on security best practices; identifying complex vulnerabilities, providing strategic security advice, and leading remediation efforts; collaborating with management to develop security policies, training other cybersecurity professionals, and staying abreast of emerging threats. Possess extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security tools.
 
Pen Tester, Level 4 (Subject Matter Expert) Functional Description: In addition to achieved duties described in Level 3, the Pen Tester will possess additional years of experience as described in Table A.5.5.1.
 
 

Do you have what it takes?
Requirements:
All positions require: TS/SCI with Poly
 
Level 2 Penetration Tester:
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 3 years
OR
High School GED + 5 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 4 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 2 Years Relevant Experience

Level 3 Penetration Tester: 

Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 4 years
OR
High School GED + 9 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 7 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 5 Years Relevant Experience

Level 4 Penetration Tester:

Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 7 years
OR
Masters or Higher + 6 Year Relevant Experience
 

All Level Certifification Requirement: Minimum Security+
Desired: DoD 8140 - CSSP Incident Responder certification:
• CyberSec First Responder (CFR)
• Cisco Cert. Network Assoc. CyberOps (CCNA CyberOps)
• CompTIA Pen Test+
• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
• Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)
• CCNA Security
• GIAC Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
• GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
• SCYBER
Level 2 Penetration Tester:
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 3 years
OR
High School GED + 5 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 4 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 2 Years Relevant Experience

Level 3 Penetration Tester: 
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 4 years
OR
High School GED + 9 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 7 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 5 Years Relevant Experience

Level 4 Penetration Tester:
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 7 years
OR
Masters or Higher + 6 Year Relevant Experience

Pay Range: VTG’s estimated starting pay range is $150,000 - 195,000 annually, which is a general guideline for and depending on the geographic location. When extending an offer, VTG also considers work experience, education, skill level, market considerations and may possibly include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range

Qualifications:
Requirements:
All positions require: TS/SCI with Poly
 
Level 2 Penetration Tester:
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 3 years
OR
High School GED + 5 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 4 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 2 Years Relevant Experience

Level 3 Penetration Tester: 

Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 4 years
OR
High School GED + 9 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 7 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 5 Years Relevant Experience

Level 4 Penetration Tester:

Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 7 years
OR
Masters or Higher + 6 Year Relevant Experience
 

All Level Certifification Requirement: Minimum Security+
Desired: DoD 8140 - CSSP Incident Responder certification:
• CyberSec First Responder (CFR)
• Cisco Cert. Network Assoc. CyberOps (CCNA CyberOps)
• CompTIA Pen Test+
• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
• Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)
• CCNA Security
• GIAC Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
• GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
• SCYBER
Level 2 Penetration Tester:
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 3 years
OR
High School GED + 5 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 4 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 2 Years Relevant Experience

Level 3 Penetration Tester: 
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 4 years
OR
High School GED + 9 Years Relevant Experience
Associates Degree + 7 Years Relevant Experience
Masters or Higher + 5 Years Relevant Experience

Level 4 Penetration Tester:
Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND
Pen Tester Experience: 7 years
OR
Masters or Higher + 6 Year Relevant Experience

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME