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Entry Level Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

nuKudo

Cybersecurity Specialist

Dallas, TX · On-site

Job Summary : nuKudo is offering a full-time position as an Entry-level Cybersecurity Specialist ... Responder, or Penetration Tester. Qualifications : Required : • U.S. Citizen or Permanent ...

PurpleBox, Inc.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Atlanta, GA

Multiple Cybersecurity Analyst and Engineer Positions are available. * Entry Level to Mid & Senior ... As part of security testing services, performing penetration testing, ethical hacking, and security ...

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Entry Level Penetration Tester information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 Penetration Tester Do?

As an entry-level penetration tester, your job is to help a company test its network security by attempting to break into it. To accomplish this, you may assist with pre-designed penetration attempts, conduct a vulnerability scan to search for any obvious points of entry, and configure attack tools for the system you are targeting. You may also help troubleshoot security issues and otherwise develop your cyber intrusion skills. This is an entry-level role, so your primary job is studying penetration techniques and documenting your activities to help software designers understand how you breached the system and what they can do to repair it.

What are entry level penetration testers?

Entry level penetration testers are cybersecurity professionals who are responsible for identifying and evaluating security vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. They use a variety of tools and techniques to simulate cyberattacks, helping organizations strengthen their defenses. Typically, entry level penetration testers work under the guidance of more experienced team members and are involved in tasks such as vulnerability scanning, basic exploitation, and reporting findings. This role often serves as a starting point for a career in ethical hacking or cybersecurity consulting.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level penetration testers during their first year on the job?

Entry-level penetration testers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving security tools and methodologies, learning to communicate technical findings in clear, actionable reports, and managing time effectively across multiple projects. Additionally, they may need to quickly become familiar with diverse IT environments and collaborate with experienced team members and clients to address vulnerabilities. Overcoming these challenges is a valuable part of the learning curve and helps build a strong foundation for future growth in cybersecurity.

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

AspectEntry Level 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 systems, incident response
Industry UsageSecurity firms, IT departments, consultingCorporate, government, financial sectors

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, an Entry Level Penetration Tester primarily conducts simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities, requiring certifications like CEH. A Cybersecurity Analyst monitors security systems and responds to threats, often with certifications like Security+ or CISSP. The roles differ in daily tasks but share foundational security knowledge and certifications.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity fundamentals, often backed by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, as well as certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for identifying vulnerabilities, reporting findings clearly, and contributing to an organization's security posture.
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Entry Level Penetration Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 53% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 46% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Junior Penetration Tester - Pentester

Praktikant / Werkstudent (w/m/d) Baumanagement

Alcolu, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Creating a future worth living for future generations gets us out of bed every morning. Depending on the project, we are consultants, implementers, or both for sustainable, innovative and economical solutions for real estate, industry, energy and infrastructure. Our 6,500 employees at over 70 locations worldwide support our customers in interdisciplinary teams. Our thinking is both visionary and realistic. We work independently and as part of a team. With passion and the latest technologies. We unite. Join us at Dreso and let's create a world we want to live in.

Job Description

We are seeking an Entry-Level Penetration Tester (Junior Pentester) to support our cybersecurity team in identifying and assessing security vulnerabilities across systems, networks, and applications. This role offers hands-on experience in offensive security practices and operates under the guidance of senior penetration testers. You will contribute to strengthening the organization's security posture by simulating real-world attack scenarios and supporting remediation activities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct and support vulnerability assessments and penetration testing engagements across networks, systems, web applications, and cloud environments
  • Identify, validate, and document security vulnerabilities and misconfigurations
  • Assist in developing proof-of-concept (PoC) exploits and attack simulations
  • Prepare clear and structured reports detailing findings, impact, and remediation recommendations 
  • Collaborate with IT, DevOps, and security teams to track remediation activities
  • Maintain and configure penetration testing tools (e.g., Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit)
  • Stay up to date with emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and offensive security techniques 
Qualifications
  • Degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field 
  • At least one recognized penetration testing certification (CEH, OSCP, CompTIA PenTest+, GPEN) 
  • Basic understanding of:
    • Networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP)
    • Linux and Windows operating systems 
  • Internship or hands-on lab experience in penetration testing
  • Participation in CTFs (Capture the Flag) or bug bounty programs
  • Familiarity with cloud environments (Azure, AWS), security frameworks (e.g., OWASP, NIST) and penetration testing tools (Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit, Wireshark)
  • Understanding of vulnerability scanning and exploitation concepts
  • Basic scripting skills (Python, Bash, or PowerShell)
  • Understanding of common attack techniques (e.g., reconnaissance, privilege escalation)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Strong attention to detail when identifying vulnerabilities
  • Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-evolving threat landscape
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Advanced English level (C1)
Additional Information
  • To ensure your work-life balance, we offer the option of mobile working
  • We promote your professional and personal development through individual training and further education at the Drees & Sommer Academy
  • We support your health with a bonus for sports enthusiasts. We offer the possibility of subscribing to a private health insurance policy
  • Employees benefit from tax advantages related to their commuting expenses for the office
  • Fiscal advantages for employees expenses in meal costs during the worktime. Employee referral program with attractive bonus scheme 
  • Supporting career and family by receiving tax benefits for kindergarten expenses

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