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Cyber Security Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Goldbelt, Inc.

Senior Penetration Tester

$90K - $150K/yr

Summary: The Senior Penetration Tester will independently perform penetration testing of ... Applies offensive cybersecurity testing techniques, coordinate testing projects with internal and ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Senior Penetration Tester

$90K - $150K/yr

Summary: The Senior Penetration Tester will independently perform penetration testing of ... Applies offensive cybersecurity testing techniques, coordinate testing projects with internal and ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Senior Penetration Tester

$90K - $150K/yr

Summary: The Senior Penetration Tester will independently perform penetration testing of ... Applies offensive cybersecurity testing techniques, coordinate testing projects with internal and ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

... cybersecurity personnel. • Conducts technical testing activities, including vulnerability ... policies. • Documents penetration testing results, findings, and supporting evidence ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Assists with planning, scoping, and execution of penetration tests in coordination with Government stakeholders and senior cybersecurity personnel. Conducts technical testing activities, including ...

PingWind Inc

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA

... cybersecurity personnel. • Conducts technical testing activities, including vulnerability ... policies. • Documents penetration testing results, findings, and supporting evidence ...

Amyx

Sr. Penetration Tester

Reston, VA · On-site +1

Sr. Penetration Tester Job Locations US ID 2026-4358 Category Defense Type Full Time Overview Amyx ... Applies offensive cybersecurity testing techniques, coordinate testing projects with internal and ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

If you possess a strong background in penetration testing and a passion for cybersecurity, we encourage you to apply for this pivotal role. This position is set to be supported in a hybrid work ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

If you possess a strong background in penetration testing and a passion for cybersecurity, we encourage you to apply for this pivotal role. This position is set to be supported in a hybrid work ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

If you possess a strong background in penetration testing and a passion for cybersecurity, we encourage you to apply for this pivotal role. This position is set to be supported in a hybrid work ...

Chase

Senior Penetration Tester

Atlanta, GA

... on offensive testing. As an Assessments & Exercises Vice President in the Cybersecurity and ... Plan, scope, and execute penetration testing engagements across a variety of environments ...

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All JobsCyber Security Penetration Testing Jobs

Cyber Security Penetration Testing information

See salary details

$40.5K

$122.9K

$180K

How much do cyber security penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber security penetration testing in the United States is $122,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $142,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Cyber security penetration testers can potentially earn $500,000 annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications like OSCP or CISSP, and specialization in high-demand areas such as red teaming or threat hunting. Achieving this level often requires senior roles, leadership positions, or consulting work in large organizations. Salary varies based on location, skills, and industry demand.

How much do cyber security penetration testers make?

Cyber security penetration testers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior testers with advanced skills and certifications like OSCP or CISSP can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand markets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Security Penetration Tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cyber Security Penetration Tester, you need a strong understanding of network protocols, operating systems, application vulnerabilities, and security frameworks, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, as well as certifications such as OSCP or CEH, is typically expected. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to accurately identify security weaknesses and convey actionable insights that protect organizational assets.

What is the difference between Cyber Security Penetration Testing vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectCyber Security Penetration TestingCyber Security Analyst
Primary FocusSimulating attacks to identify vulnerabilitiesMonitoring, analyzing, and defending against threats
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCISSP, Security+, CEH
Work EnvironmentEngaged in offensive security tasks, often in labs or client sitesSecurity operations centers, corporate environments
ResponsibilitiesConducting penetration tests, reporting vulnerabilitiesMonitoring security alerts, incident response

While both roles require cybersecurity certifications and involve understanding security threats, penetration testers focus on proactively finding vulnerabilities through simulated attacks. Analysts primarily monitor and respond to security incidents to protect organizational assets.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Cyber security penetration testers perform manual testing, analysis, and creative problem-solving that AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist in identifying vulnerabilities and automating repetitive tasks, human expertise remains essential for complex assessments, interpreting results, and adapting to new threats. Continuous learning and certification in tools like Kali Linux or Burp Suite are important for pentesters to stay relevant.

What is cyber security penetration testing?

Cyber security penetration testing, also known as pen testing, is a simulated cyberattack on a computer system, network, or web application to identify and exploit security vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can do so. The goal is to evaluate the security of the system by safely attempting to exploit weaknesses, such as flaws in software, hardware, or human processes. Penetration testers use a variety of tools and techniques to mimic real-world attacks and provide organizations with insights and recommendations to improve their security posture.

What are some common challenges faced by cyber security penetration testers when working on client engagements?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited information (black-box testing), strict time constraints, and navigating complex, ever-changing IT environments. They must balance thoroughness with efficiency, ensuring they identify critical vulnerabilities without disrupting business operations. Effective communication with clients and internal teams is essential, as testers need to clearly explain findings and remediation steps to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Staying updated on the latest threats and attack techniques is also crucial for success in this dynamic field.

Is penetration testing a good career?

Penetration testing is a valuable cybersecurity role that involves identifying vulnerabilities in systems and networks. It offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for certification such as OSCP or CEH, making it a strong career choice for those interested in cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
More about Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs
What cities are hiring for Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs? Cities with the most Cyber Security Penetration Testing job openings:
What states have the most Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs are:
Cyber Security Penetration Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cyber Security Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,890 per year, or $59.1 per hour.
Senior Penetration Tester

Senior Penetration Tester

Goldbelt, Inc.

Remote

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Overview
Please note that this position is contingent upon the successful award of a contract currently under bid.
Global in service but local in approach, Nisga'a Tek is committed to high-quality service to those who defend us. Nisga'a Tek ensures mission assurance and execution for customers and warfighters. Providing intelligence, IT, cyber security, training, logistics, administrative, acquisition, and background investigation services.
Summary:
The Senior Penetration Tester will independently perform penetration testing of applications, systems and enclaves Identifies security flaws in computing platforms and applications and devise strategies and techniques to mitigate identified cybersecurity risks.
Responsibilities
Essential Job Functions:
  • Performs application and network penetration testing and wireless security assessments.
  • Applies offensive cybersecurity testing techniques, coordinate testing projects with internal and external system owners.
  • Reports the nature of identified cybersecurity risks and recommends risk mitigation measures to improve the cybersecurity posture of the enterprise.

Qualifications
Necessary Skills and Knowledge:
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP protocols and networking architectures
  • Excellent written documentation and oral presentation skills
  • Knowledge of open security testing standards and projects, including OWASP
  • Knowledge of databases, applications, and Web server design and implementation
  • Possess oral and written communication skills

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum six (6) years proven proficiency in performing extensive vulnerability assessment and penetration testing
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience with testing tools, including NESSUS, METASPLOIT, CANVAS, NMAP, Burp Suite, and Kismet
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience with network vulnerability assessments and penetration testing methods
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience with writing testing assessment reports
  • Minimum two (2) years of experience with using, administering, and troubleshooting a WINDOWS Server, IIS
  • Minimum two (2) years of experience with using, administering, and troubleshooting a major version of Linux
  • Minimum two (2) years of experience PCI DSS testing
  • Possess a certification in penetration testing, such as:
    • Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT)
    • Certified Expert Penetration Tester (CEPT)
    • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
    • Global Information Assurance Certification Penetration Tester (GPEN)
  • Experience scripting in Perl, Python, Ruby, Bash, or Java
  • Experience with wireless LAN security testing
  • Required to possess a DOD SECRET Clearance and be eligible for an IT-I Critical Sensitive security clearance or Tier 5 (T5) upon assignment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field

Pay and Benefits
The annual salary range for this position is $90,000 - $150,000.
At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

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