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Entry Level Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army

Cyber Operations Specialist

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$25K/yr

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. Position requirements: * Attend Basic ... Conduct network terrain audits, penetration testing, basic digital forensics and software threat ...

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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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Information / Cybersecurity Engineer (Clearance Required)

Nexxis Solutions

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$90K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Nexxis Solutions is supporting current and near-term efforts to provide information and system security engineering, life cycle solutions, system security testing, risk assessment, and continuous monitoring. We are looking for candidates to provide Cybersecurity expertise to systems and projects to ensure that the appropriate security features and safeguards are designed, integrated, and implemented for all information systems.
We are currently looking for cleared professionals in the following areas:
    • Security Controls Assessor (SCA)
    • ISSE/ISSM/ISSO
    • DevSecOps Engineer
    • IT Security
    • IA System Administrator
    • Security Engineer
    • Cybersecurity Network Analyst (CSNA)
    • Splunk Engineer/Administrator
    • Penetration Tester
    • Others...

General Overview
Be part of a team helping ensure proper level of security for customer software systems and network. Duties will include protecting system boundaries, keeping computer systems and network devices hardened against attacks and securing highly sensitive data.
Possessing deep and wide expertise in the security space as well as having a background in security and/or systems engineering will be critical in these roles.
Responsibilities vary by role but may include any of the following:
  • Organize computer security architecture and develop detailed cyber security designs
  • Review, develop and implement security measures for the protection of computer systems, networks and information
  • Define system security requirements and prepare reports on your results
  • Review and document standard operating procedures and protocols
  • Configure and troubleshoot security infrastructure devices
  • Create technical solutions and new security tools to help mitigate security vulnerabilities and automate repeatable tasks
  • Perform support and consulting of the company's personnel about security incidents and measures
  • Prepare detailed reports including assessment-based findings, outcomes and propositions for further system security enhancement

Degree Requirements: A B.S. in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field is required for most positions. A Master's or Ph.D. in Cybersecurity, IT, or a related field is a plus but not required for most positions.
(Some positions may consider additional years of experience in lieu of degree.)
Certification Requirements: Most positions require DoD 8570.01-m (level 2 or above) compliance. A minimum of Security+ strongly preferred; CISSP or above required for some opportunities.
Experience Requirements:Available positions range from entry level to 20+ years of experience.
Clearance Requirements: A current TS/SCI clearance with appropriate level Polygraph is required.
Nexxis Solutions offers competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package (including paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401k and more).
  • Entry level: $90-120k; Mid-level: $120-180k; Senior level: $150-250k*
  • Most positions offer minimal if any telework
  • More benefit details can be found here: Nexxis Solutions Benefits Overview

* Salary ranges represent a general guideline. Nexxis Solutions considers several factors when determining compensation including but not limited to: scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's experience, education/certifications, skills; and current market conditions.
Employment Opportunity Statement
Nexxis Solutions is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions are based on legitimate job-related qualifications, merit, and business needs. Nexxis Solutions does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, compensation, training, transfer, discipline, termination, layoff, recall, leaves of absence, and all other terms and conditions of employment.
Nexxis Solutions promptly investigates reports of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or other conduct prohibited by this policy and takes appropriate action consistent with company policy and applicable law.
Applicants and employees who require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position or participate in the application process should contact Nexxis Solutions (or call 410-875-7980).
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. You can find links to these notices here.

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