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Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders. Pen Tester, Level 3 (Senior) Functional Description: In addition to achieved duties described in ...

Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders. Pen Tester, Level 3 (Senior) Functional Description: In addition to achieved duties described in ...

Jr. Cyber Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$66K - $106K/yr

Support the Penetration Testing (Red Cell) Team. * Assess the current state of the customer's system security by identifying all vulnerabilities and security measures. * Help customer perform ...

Support the Penetration Testing (Red Cell) Team. * Assess the current state of the customer's system security by identifying all vulnerabilities and security measures. * Help customer perform ...

Support the Penetration Testing (Red Cell) Team. * Assess the current state of the customer's system security by identifying all vulnerabilities and security measures. * Help customer perform ...

PR · On-site

$25K - $35K/yr

Job Overview: We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Pentester Junior to join our ... The ideal candidate will support penetration testing activities to identify vulnerabilities in ...

WebFX is a full-service digital marketing agency based in the US, seeking an entry-level Jr. ... assurance testing during website builds and launches • Evaluate website performance ...

Junior DevOps Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$53.25 - $72.75/hr

How - At Sprocket Security, we've built an expert-driven Continuous Penetration Testing platform that blends cutting-edge automated and manual testing methods. Your Mission - As a Junior DevOps ...

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Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester information

See salary details

$33.5K

$71.8K

$109.5K

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level junior penetration tester in the United States is $71,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester, you need a foundational understanding of cybersecurity principles, basic programming, and knowledge of networking, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Familiarity with penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Wireshark is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you identify vulnerabilities and clearly report findings. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing security risks and supporting an organization's efforts to strengthen its cyber defenses.

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

AspectEntry Level Junior Penetration TesterCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles)
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacks, security assessmentsMonitoring, analyzing security threats, incident response
Employer & Industry UsageSecurity firms, IT departments, consulting companiesCorporate IT, government agencies, financial institutions

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, an Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester primarily conducts simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities, whereas a Cybersecurity Analyst monitors systems for threats and responds to incidents. The roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ in proactive testing versus reactive defense.

What types of projects and tasks can an Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester expect to work on during their first year?

As an Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester, you will typically assist in vulnerability assessments, basic penetration tests, and security audits under the guidance of more experienced team members. Your daily tasks may include running automated scanning tools, documenting findings, and helping to prepare reports for clients or internal stakeholders. You will also likely participate in team meetings to discuss methodologies and findings, and you may have opportunities to shadow senior testers during more complex engagements. This environment offers valuable on-the-job learning and exposure to a variety of systems, setting a strong foundation for career growth in cybersecurity.

What does an Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester do?

An Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester assists in evaluating the security of computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating cyberattacks. Their main role is to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious hackers and report their findings to help improve an organization’s security. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced testers and use various tools and techniques to perform assessments. This position is ideal for individuals starting their cybersecurity career and provides valuable hands-on experience in ethical hacking.
More about Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Junior Penetration Tester jobs? The most popular types of Junior Penetration Tester jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Junior Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,799 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Junior Penetration Tester

Cyber Defense Technologies

Denver, CO

$79K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview: CDT is looking for a Junior Penetration Tester to support a government customer onsite in Denver, Colorado. Candidates with OSCP certification are highly recommended to apply.
Clearance: An active Top Secret/SCI with CI poly is required.  Candidates who do not meet these requirements will not be considered.
Responsibilities:
  • 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.
Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma/GED, Associates Degree and 3 years of relevant work experience.
  • Bachelor's Degree and 0-2 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience in cyber security with a focus on red teaming, penetration testing, or threat hunting.

Why Join Cyber Defense Technologies?
At CDT, we offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment where your expertise in Penetration Testing will help shape the future of cybersecurity and engineering solutions.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
CDT is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity employer making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
Apply Now:
If you are a proactive Penetration Tester and thrive in dynamic environments, we encourage you to apply and join the CDT team!
Salary Range: $79,000 - $108,000