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Entry Level Penetration Tester Jobs in Minnesota

Entry Level Penetration Tester information

See Minnesota salary details

$22K

$117.4K

$165K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level penetration tester in Minnesota is $117,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $138,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level penetration tester?

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 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 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.

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 most commonly searched types of Penetration Tester jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Penetration Tester jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Penetration Tester jobs in Minnesota?

For Entry Level Penetration Tester jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Penetration Tester jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Penetration Tester jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Penetration Tester jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Penetration Tester job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Penetration Tester job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,426 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Weld Inspector I

Lakeville, MN • On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Job Title: Weld Inspector I/ Quality Inspector 

Reports to: Weld Quality Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 

Job Summary:

The Quality Weld Inspector is responsible for performing inspections of welded components and assemblies to ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and specifications. This role requires a strong understanding of welding processes, inspection techniques, and quality control procedures. The Weld Inspector will work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to identify and resolve welding-related issues and ensure product integrity.


Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct visual inspections on pre-, in-process, and post-welded materials to identify defects such as cracks, pits, and inadequate weld penetration.
  • Perform dimensional inspections to verify welds conform to blueprints, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Assist in setting up and testing weld joints to evaluate their strength and integrity.
  • Complete and maintain accurate inspection reports, test results, and all required quality control documentation.
  • Communicate inspection findings and non-conformances to welders and supervisors, assisting in corrective actions as needed.
  • Verify that all materials and consumables used in the welding process are correctly certified and traceable.
  • Promote and ensure adherence to all company safety and quality policies and procedures.
Qualifications:
  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent. Completion of a technical or vocational program in welding technology is preferred.
  • Experience: 2–5 years of experience in welding or a related field. No prior inspection experience is typically required for this entry-level role.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and technical specifications.
    • Basic knowledge of welding processes and materials.
    • Familiarity with visual and destructive testing methods.
    • Proficiency with basic inspection tools like calipers, tape measures, and fillet gauges.
  • Soft Skills:
    • Strong attention to detail with excellent observational and analytical abilities.
    • Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with welding teams and management.
    • Strong sense of personal responsibility and integrity.
    • Basic computer literacy for documenting and reporting results.

 

Physical requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, and reach for extended periods in a manufacturing or construction environment.
  • Specific vision abilities, including close vision, color vision, and depth perception, are required to inspect welds.
  • Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Comfortable working in a variety of conditions, including confined spaces, heights, and areas with potential exposure to weld gases, sparks, and loud noises.

Pre-Employment Screening
Finalists for this position will be required to successfully complete a background check. Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening before beginning employment.


2nd shift: 4:14pm-2:45am Monday through Thursday