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Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester Jobs in Raleigh, NC

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and ... This is an entry level position. No experience is required. * The employee will be expected perform ...

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and ... This is an entry level position. No experience is required. * The employee will be expected perform ...

All JobsCybersecurity Penetration Tester JobsEntry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester JobsEntry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$21.9K

$116.5K

$163.8K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cybersecurity penetration tester in Raleigh, NC is $116,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $137,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,547 per year, or $56 per hour.

Cyber Security Engineer I - Application Penetration Testing Specialist

First Citizens Bank

Raleigh, NC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

First Citizens Bank rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 106 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 170 rated banks

Job description

Overview

This is a remote role that may only be hired in the following location(s): Arizona, Texas, or North Carolina.

This position ensures the technological and digital security of the Bank. The tester will identify exposure to cyber threats, security risks, and unauthorized access and assist with mitigation guidance. The tester will assess organizational networks, applications, or systems for potential vulnerabilities. The tester will maintain knowledge of industry practices, technology, and evolving threats to enhance defenses for the Bank's information systems and resources.

The pentester must be able to plan, coordinate, communicate, track, and conduct penetration testing assessments on the organization’s applications, aid in the coordination of additional testing through third-party vendors, and may lead other associates in the work group acting as lead tester. The selected candidate is welcome to work remotely and/or from a corporate office location.


Responsibilities
  • Plan and conduct application penetration tests of complex computer systems from a remote testing location
  • Coordinate third-party vendor testing
  • Analyze and document test results in the format and level of detail dictated by current procedures
  • Can convey highly technical information in a manner that can be understood and appreciated by Application Owners and other stakeholders
  • Track vulnerabilities and metrics
  • Coordinate multiple projects/assignments simultaneously and accurately, and deliver results in a timely manner
  • Stay current on new tools, TTPs, vulnerabilities, and emerging threats
  • Aid in defining and documenting Pentest Processes

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree and 2 years of experience in Systems engineering, networking, or information security OR High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of experience in Systems engineering, networking, or information security

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Expertise in application penetration testing techniques with and without scanners
  • Demonstrated expertise in:
    • Testing web applications and databases
    • Network administration
    • Linux and Windows
    • Kali Linux tools, Burp Suite, and other pentest tools
    • Experience with pentesting frameworks such as OWASP and PTES
    • Jira and Confluence
    • Analysis and development of professional reports
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively balance and manage multiple priorities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
  • Preferred but not required: OSWE, GPEN, GWAPT, or other equal certifications

Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at https://jobs.firstcitizens.com/benefits.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree and 2 years of experience in Systems engineering, networking, or information security OR High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of experience in Systems engineering, networking, or information security

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Expertise in application penetration testing techniques with and without scanners
  • Demonstrated expertise in:
    • Testing web applications and databases
    • Network administration
    • Linux and Windows
    • Kali Linux tools, Burp Suite, and other pentest tools
    • Experience with pentesting frameworks such as OWASP and PTES
    • Jira and Confluence
    • Analysis and development of professional reports
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively balance and manage multiple priorities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
  • Preferred but not required: OSWE, GPEN, GWAPT, or other equal certifications

Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at https://jobs.firstcitizens.com/benefits.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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