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Entry Level Penetration Testing Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

All JobsPenetration Testing JobsEntry Level Penetration Testing JobsEntry Level Penetration Testing Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Penetration Testing information

See Iowa salary details

$21.1K

$112.6K

$158.3K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level penetration testing in Iowa is $112,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,200.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Penetration TestingCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH (optional)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (preferred)
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksMonitoring, analyzing security events
Job FocusIdentifying vulnerabilities through penetration testsMonitoring security systems, incident response

Entry Level Penetration Testing involves actively testing systems for vulnerabilities, while Cybersecurity Analysts focus on monitoring and defending against threats. Both roles require security certifications and are essential in protecting organizational assets, but they differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level penetration testers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level penetration testers often encounter challenges such as staying up to date with rapidly evolving security threats and mastering a wide array of tools and techniques. Additionally, managing time effectively during assessments and clearly communicating technical findings to non-technical stakeholders can be difficult. Overcoming these challenges involves continuous learning, seeking mentorship from experienced team members, and practicing clear, concise reporting. Many organizations also encourage collaboration, so working closely with colleagues can help new testers build confidence and improve their skills.

What is entry level penetration testing?

Entry level penetration testing involves assessing computer systems, networks, or applications for security vulnerabilities under the guidance of more experienced professionals. Individuals in this role often use tools and methodologies to simulate cyberattacks, helping organizations identify and fix potential weaknesses before they can be exploited. These positions are ideal for those new to cybersecurity and typically require a foundational understanding of networking, operating systems, and security concepts. Entry level penetration testers may also assist with preparing reports and documenting findings. With experience, they can progress to more advanced roles in cybersecurity.

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 foundational knowledge of networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Nmap, Burp Suite, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, reporting findings clearly, and helping organizations strengthen their security posture.

What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Testing jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Penetration Testing jobs in Iowa are:

Entry Level Penetration Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Penetration Testing job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,613 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 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:
    • Load tooling and materials.
    • Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.
    • Collect soil and rock samples and log field data.
    • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
    • Perform basic surveying and site reconnaissance.
    • Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.
    • 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

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.
About the Team
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located. From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

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