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Entry Level Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/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 ...

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Lodi, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/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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How much do entry level penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level penetration testing 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 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 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.

Is a penetration tester an entry-level job?

Entry-level penetration testing roles typically require foundational knowledge of cybersecurity, networking, and scripting, often supported by certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). While some companies may hire entry-level testers, many positions prefer candidates with prior experience or internships, making it important to build relevant skills first.

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 cities are hiring for Entry Level Penetration Testing jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Penetration Testing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Testing jobs? The most popular types of Penetration Testing jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Penetration Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Penetration Testing jobs include:
Entry Level Penetration Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Application Security Engineer 1

Application Security Engineer 1

Bloomberg Industry Group

Arlington, VA

$67.75 - $90.50/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Responsible for supporting application security through security testing, vulnerability management, secure design collaboration, automation support, and incident response participation, contributing to secure development practices across internal and external applications.

About the Team:
At Bloomberg Industry Group, our Application Security team ensures the security of internal and external applications and services. We leverage innovative security tools and a team of dedicated security engineers to protect our products throughout their lifecycle.

Job Summary:
As an Application Security Engineer I, you will be part of a team responsible for ensuring the security of applications, conducting security assessments, and implementing security controls. You will work closely with developers, providing guidance on secure coding practices, and working to integrate security into our CI/CD pipelines.

This entry-level role is ideal for candidates beginning their Application Security career and looking to grow into a seasoned Application Security Engineer.

What You Will Do:

  • Participate in application security practices such as:
  • Static Application Security Testing (SAST)
  • Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST)
  • Software Composition Analysis (SCA)
  • Penetration Testing
  • Participate in vulnerability management processes.
  • Assist in the development, deployment and automation of security tools, scripts, and processes.
  • Collaborate with software engineers to design, implement, and review security features in applications.
  • Support the identification and resolution of security incidents as part of the incident response team.
  • Stay current on emerging security trends, vulnerabilities, and tooling to continuously elevate Application Security.

You Need to Have:

  • Basic knowledge of security principles, standards, and best practices.
  • Familiarity with one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, JavaScript).
  • Ambition to learn and grow into AI Security and Security Engineering.
  • Exposure to security testing tools like SAST, DAST, SCA, and/or vulnerability management platforms.
  • An associate's degree in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience.

We would Love to See:

  • Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ , CompTIA Pentest+, Certified DevSecOps Professional (CDP) or equivalent.
  • Hands-on experience with:
  • CI/CD pipelines (GitLab, GitHub Actions, Jenkins)
  • Cloud environments (AWS)
  • Secure coding or code review
  • Security automation or scripting
  • Participation in security communities, Capture The Flag (CTF) events, open-source contributions, or similar skill-building activities.

Equal Opportunity


Bloomberg Industry Group maintains a continuing policy of non-discrimination in employment. It is Bloomberg Industry Group's policy to provide equal opportunity and access for all persons, and the Company is committed to attracting, retaining, developing, and promoting the most qualified individuals without regard to age, ancestry, color, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, marital status, national or ethnic origin, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, sexual and other reproductive health decisions, parental or caring status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy or maternity/parental leave, protected veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other classification protected by applicable law ("Protected Characteristic"). Bloomberg prohibits treating applicants or employees less favorably in connection with the terms and conditions of employment, in all phases of the employment process, because of one or more Protected Characteristics ("Discrimination").

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