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Entry Level Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.75 - $31/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 ...

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 ...

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

El Paso, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $28.25/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 ...

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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 Jul 6, 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 17% Full Time, 75% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Fort Myers, FL • On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 58 rated business consultants

Job description


Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork.
Responsibilities
  • This is an entry level position. No experience is required.
  • The employee will be expected perform following tasks:
    • o Load tooling and materials.o Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.o Collect soil and rock samples and log field data.o Perform routine repairs and maintenance.o Perform basic surveying and site reconnaissance.o Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.o Learn to inspect and how to maintain equipment.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

    • Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Limited or no experience required
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
    • Required Qualifications:
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.

    • About Us
    Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
    Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.

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