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Ethical Hacker Penetration Tester Entry Level Jobs

Apex Informatics

Penetration Tester

Dallas, TX · On-site

Heavy Penetration Testing Experience Needed -Manual AND automated testing -Manual pen testing ... how to use. -If they have an ethical hacker certification, they will most likely meet the ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

Ethical Hacking: * * Conduct all penetration testing activities in a legal and ethical manner, adhering to established rules of engagement. * Protect the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

Ethical Hacking: * * Conduct all penetration testing activities in a legal and ethical manner, adhering to established rules of engagement. * Protect the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive ...

Zelvin Security LLC

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Penetration Tester

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $145K/yr

Zelvin Security is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our Ethical Hacking Team and conduct hands-on ethical hacking engagements across networks, web applications, APIs, cloud platforms ...

New

Zelvin Security LLC

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Penetration Tester

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $145K/yr

Zelvin Security is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our Ethical Hacking Team and conduct hands-on ethical hacking engagements across networks, web applications, APIs, cloud platforms ...

New

Analygence

Penetration Tester

Norfolk, VA · On-site

The Penetration Tester will assist in the development of cyber test plans, execute cyber tests, and ... Employee ethical hacking knowledge to exploit discovered vulnerabilities and misconfigurations ...

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Ethical Hacker Penetration Tester Entry Level information

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for ethical hacker penetration tester entry level 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 some typical challenges entry-level ethical hackers and penetration testers face when starting out in this field?

Entry-level ethical hackers and penetration testers often encounter challenges such as understanding the complexity of diverse IT environments and staying updated with rapidly evolving security threats. They may also find it demanding to effectively communicate technical findings to non-technical stakeholders, which is crucial for successful remediation. Additionally, working under tight deadlines while performing thorough assessments can be stressful, but it becomes easier with experience and mentorship from senior team members.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry-level ethical hacker or penetration tester?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester, you need foundational knowledge in networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Familiarity with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Nmap, and Wireshark, as well as basic scripting or programming skills, is typically expected. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong communication skills help you identify vulnerabilities and clearly report findings to stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively assessing security risks and helping organizations protect their digital assets.

What is an entry-level ethical hacker or penetration tester?

An entry-level ethical hacker or penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who assesses computer systems, networks, and applications for security vulnerabilities. Their primary responsibility is to simulate cyberattacks, with permission, to identify and help fix weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. Entry-level positions typically involve working under the guidance of more experienced testers, running standard tests, and documenting findings. These roles are crucial for organizations aiming to strengthen their security posture and protect sensitive information.

How much do entry-level ethical hackers make?

Entry-level ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually. Salaries can vary based on location, certifications like CEH or OSCP, and the complexity of the security environment they work in.
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The top searched job categories for Ethical Hacker Penetration Tester Entry Level jobs are:

Ethical Hacker Penetration Tester Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ethical Hacker Penetration Tester Entry Level job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacker

CyberLinx Solutions LLC

Baltimore, MD

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

CyberLinx Solutions, LLC is seeking a Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacker to simulate real-world cyberattacks, uncover vulnerabilities, and strengthen our overall security posture.

In this role, you’ll work alongside SOC, Threat Intelligence, and Security Engineering teams to proactively identify risks before adversaries do.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct penetration testing across web applications, networks, APIs, and cloud environments
  • Perform vulnerability assessments and controlled exploitation
  • Simulate adversary tactics aligned with real-world threat actors
  • Document findings and deliver clear technical and executive reports
  • Partner with engineering and security teams to drive remediation
  • Support Red Team exercises and continuous security validation

Apply