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Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester Jobs

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

The role of Penetration Tester (Pen Tester)* is a security professional who reviews and evaluates ... Possess knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security tools Pen ...

The role of Penetration Tester (Pen Tester)* is a security professional who reviews and evaluates ... Possess knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security tools Pen ...

Cymertek Corporation is seeking a highly skilled and proactive Penetration Tester to join their cybersecurity team. In this role, you will identify vulnerabilities and test the security of networks ...

Cymertek Corporation is seeking a highly skilled and proactive Penetration Tester to join their cybersecurity team. In this role, you will identify vulnerabilities and test the security of networks ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

The role of Penetration Tester (Pen Tester)* is a security professional who reviews and evaluates ... Possess knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security tools Pen ...

Our company is a leader in cybersecurity, dedicated to providing comprehensive security solutions ... We are looking for a skilled Penetration Tester to join our cybersecurity team. This role involves ...

Cymertek Corporation is seeking a highly skilled and proactive Penetration Tester to join their cybersecurity team. In this role, you will identify vulnerabilities and test the security of networks ...

About the Role The Penetration Tester works to execute department activities and deliver high ... Master's or Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, management information systems, computer science ...

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Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do entry level cybersecurity penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cybersecurity 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 does an entry level cybersecurity penetration tester do?

An Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is responsible for identifying and assessing security vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. They use various tools and techniques to simulate cyberattacks, helping organizations find and fix weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. Typically, they work under the supervision of senior testers, document their findings, and may help create reports or recommend security improvements. This role is a starting point for a career in ethical hacking and cybersecurity consulting.

What does a typical week look like for an entry level cybersecurity penetration tester in terms of tasks and team collaboration?

As an entry level cybersecurity penetration tester, your week typically involves planning and executing controlled attacks on systems to identify vulnerabilities, documenting your findings, and participating in debrief meetings with clients or internal teams. You'll often work closely with more experienced testers, security analysts, and IT staff to coordinate testing efforts and understand the systems under review. Regular collaboration is key, especially when interpreting results and developing mitigation strategies. You can also expect to spend time learning new tools and techniques, as staying updated is essential in this rapidly changing field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cybersecurity penetration tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of networking, operating systems, and basic security principles, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Nmap, Burp Suite, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH are commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, explaining findings to stakeholders, and helping organizations strengthen their security posture.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Cybersecurity Penetration TesterCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level)
Work EnvironmentSimulated attacks, testing security systemsMonitoring, analyzing security events
Primary FocusIdentifying vulnerabilities through penetration testingDetecting and responding to security threats
Industry UsageSecurity testing firms, IT departmentsAll industries, corporate security teams

While both roles require foundational cybersecurity knowledge and certifications, the Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester focuses on proactively testing systems for vulnerabilities, whereas the Cybersecurity Analyst monitors and responds to security incidents. Both are essential for a comprehensive security strategy but serve different functions within an organization.

More about Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester job openings:

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

The most popular types of Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

ASRC Federal is actively hiring a Penetration Tester in support of our Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA) program based out of Quantico VA.

Remote flexibility available! Telework offered with a requirement to be onsite up to two (2) days a week at Quantico Marine Corps Base VA.

Position Description:

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. This role requires a deep understanding of security principles, hacking techniques, and attack methodologies. The Penetration Tester will plan, execute, and document penetration tests, provide recommendations for remediation, and contribute to the overall improvement of the organization's security posture.

Minimum Requirements:ย 

  • Minimum of 5 โ€“ 7 years of experience in security principles such as attack frameworks, threat landscapes, and attacker tactics, techniques and procedures.ย 
  • Proven experience conducting penetration tests of web applications, networks, and other systems.
  • Experience with a variety of penetration testing tools and techniques (e.g., Rapid7 Nexpose, Appspider Pro, Metasploit, Cobalt Strike and/or Burp Suite).
  • Active Top-Secret Clearance REQUIRED, eligible to be upgraded to TS/SCI
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • Must meet 8570 certification requirements at the time of hire.ย  IAT II Information Assurance Baseline (e.g., CASP+ CE, CCMP Security, CISA, CISSP, GCED, GCIH, Security+ CE or CCSP) In addition to the IA baseline, a CSSP Auditor cert is preferred (e.g., CEH, CySA+, CISA, GSNA, CFR or PenTest)ย 

ย 

Responsibilities:

  • Penetration Testing:
    • Conduct penetration tests of web applications, mobile applications, networks, cloud environments, and other systems.
    • Utilize a variety of tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities, including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), buffer overflows, and other common attack vectors.
    • Perform reconnaissance to gather information about target systems and networks.
    • Develop and execute exploit code to demonstrate the impact of identified vulnerabilities.
    • Bypass security controls and evade detection.
  • Vulnerability Assessment:
    • Perform vulnerability assessments using automated scanning tools and manual techniques.
    • Analyze scan results to identify false positives and prioritize vulnerabilities.
    • Develop custom scripts and tools to automate vulnerability assessment tasks.
  • Reporting and Documentation:
    • Document all findings in detailed and comprehensive reports, including descriptions of vulnerabilities, methods used to exploit them, and recommendations for remediation.
    • Present findings to stakeholders, including technical teams and management.
    • Create and maintain documentation on penetration testing methodologies, tools, and techniques.
  • Remediation Support:
    • Provide guidance and technical assistance to system owners and developers on vulnerability remediation.
    • Validate remediation efforts to ensure that vulnerabilities have been properly addressed.
    • Conduct retests to verify the effectiveness of implemented security controls.
  • Research and Development:
    • Stay up-to-date on the latest security threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques.
    • Research and evaluate new penetration testing tools and methodologies.
    • Develop custom tools and scripts to enhance penetration testing capabilities.
    • Contribute to the development of security policies and procedures.
  • Collaboration:
    • Collaborate with other cybersecurity professionals, including security architects, incident responders, and security engineers.
    • Share knowledge and expertise with team members.
    • Participate in security training and awareness programs.
  • Ethical Hacking:
    • Conduct all penetration testing activities in a legal and ethical manner, adhering to established rules of engagement.
    • Protect the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data.
    • Respect the privacy of users and systems.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:ย 

  • This is primarily a Telework position with a requirement to be onsite up to two (2) days a week
  • If alternate worksite is other than DCSA facilities or corporate office space, must have the reliable ability to communicate over voice (cell phone preferred) and stable, capable internet connection
  • Must be able to communicate complex technical ideas to a diverse customer base both verbally and in written form