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Ethical Hacker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cyber Security Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180K - $195K/yr

In this role, you will act as an ethical hacker to target, assess, and exploit vulnerabilities of information systems, providing senior decision-makers with the actionable data necessary for ...

Cyber Security Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180K - $195K/yr

In this role, you will act as an ethical hacker to target, assess, and exploit vulnerabilities of information systems, providing senior decision-makers with the actionable data necessary for ...

... Ethical Hacker (CEH) • CompTIA's Security Plus (SEC+) • Intelligence Analyst Certified (IAC) • Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (C|TIA) Company : ARSIEM Corporation is a proven and trusted ...

Sr. Network Security Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$60.75 - $79.50/hr

... in ethical hacking techniques. - Strong critical thinking ability and investigative/problem solving skills Preferred Skills: - Demonstrated experience with AWS security tools - Demonstrated ...

New

Sr. Network Security Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$60.75 - $79.50/hr

... in ethical hacking techniques. - Strong critical thinking ability and investigative/problem solving skills Preferred Skills: - Demonstrated experience with AWS security tools - Demonstrated ...

New

Cyber Threat Hunt Lead

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$113K - $153K/yr

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or one of the following: DoD 8570 IAT Level II or IAM Level I or CSSP Analyst / Incident Responder. Benefits * Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) * Retirement ...

... Ethical Hacker (CEH) • CompTIA's Security Plus (SEC+) • Intelligence Analyst Certified (IAC) • Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (C|TIA) Company : ARSIEM Corporation is a proven and trusted ...

Cyber Threat Hunt Lead

Ashburn, VA

$113K - $153K/yr

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or one of the following: DoD 8570 IAT Level II or IAM Level I or CSSP Analyst / Incident Responder. Benefits * Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) * Retirement ...

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) * CompTIA's Security Plus (SEC+) * Intelligence Analyst Certified (IAC) * Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (C|TIA) About Us For more than 20 years, NewGen ...

Showing results 21-40

Ethical Hacker information

See Virginia salary details

$98.7K

$131.6K

$157.6K

How much do ethical hacker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for ethical hacker in Virginia is $131,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,511.00 and $137,613.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ethical hacker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ethical Hacker, you need strong knowledge of networking, operating systems, vulnerability assessment, and security protocols, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Nmap, Wireshark, and certifications such as CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or OSCP are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and strong communication are vital soft skills for identifying vulnerabilities and reporting findings effectively. These skills ensure organizations can proactively defend against cyber threats and maintain robust information security.

What is the difference between Ethical Hacker vs Penetration Tester?

AspectEthical HackerPenetration Tester
CertificationsCEH, OSCP, CISSPOSCP, CEH, GPEN
Work EnvironmentOften part of security teams, proactive testingFocused on simulated attacks, testing security
Employer & Industry UsageBusinesses, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesSecurity consulting firms, internal security teams

Both Ethical Hackers and Penetration Testers assess security vulnerabilities, often holding similar certifications and working in comparable environments. Ethical Hackers typically have a broader role, including proactive security measures, while Penetration Testers focus specifically on simulated attacks to identify weaknesses. The terms are often used interchangeably, but Ethical Hacker emphasizes a proactive security mindset, whereas Penetration Tester emphasizes the testing process.

What are the most common challenges ethical hackers face when working with organizations?

Ethical hackers often encounter challenges such as navigating limited access to critical systems, working with incomplete or outdated documentation, and ensuring that their activities do not disrupt business operations. Communication is key, as they must clearly explain vulnerabilities and recommendations to non-technical stakeholders. Additionally, ethical hackers must stay current with evolving security threats and tools, which requires continuous learning and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

What does an ethical hacker do?

The job duties of an ethical hacker involve testing the security of a computer system or server. In this career, you may also have the job title of penetration tester. Your responsibilities include attempting to hack a system, website, or network to assess the vulnerability. You then make a report or give suggestions based on the outcome of your tests. You may perform research on the site or network before your hacks to find potential cyber vulnerabilities. As an ethical hacker, you must continuously research hacking to keep up with the latest techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ethical Hacker jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Ethical Hacker jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Ethical Hacker jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Ethical Hacker job openings:

Infographic showing various Ethical Hacker job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,554 per year, or $63.2 per hour.

Cyber Security Engineer

Redhorse Corporation

Herndon, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

About the Organization
Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. We are a solution-driven company delivering data insights and technology solutions to customers with missions critical to U.S. national interests. We're looking for thoughtful, skilled professionals who thrive as trusted partners building technology-agnostic solutions and want to apply their talents supporting customers with difficult and important mission sets.
About the Role
Redhorse transforms the way government uses data and technology. To support this mission, we are seeking a Senior Penetration Tester to join a highly technical team providing in-depth penetration testing services in support of the Sponsor's enterprise cyber security equities. In this role, you will act as an ethical hacker to target, assess, and exploit vulnerabilities of information systems, providing senior decision-makers with the actionable data necessary for strategic investment decisions. Your work will directly impact the security posture of critical government infrastructure, ensuring that risks are identified and mitigated before they can be exploited by adversaries.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct hands-on penetration testing and ethical hacking to target, assess, and exploit risks and vulnerabilities of information systems.
  • Perform comprehensive analyses of identified vulnerabilities and document all system risks, planned test procedures, and results.
  • Review and recommend changes to program-level documentation, including requirements specifications, system architecture, design documents, and security plans, to reduce system vulnerabilities.
  • Create and document detailed penetration testing plans and procedures for approval and execution.
  • Analyze test results to recommend effective countermeasures and mitigation strategies for uncovered risks.
  • Lead or participate in Technical Exchange Meetings (TEMs) and Application Review Boards, documenting action items and briefing management on activity results.

Required Experience/Clearance
  • Active TS/SCI with Polygraph security clearance.
  • 8+ years of experience in cyber security or a related IT field, with a significant focus on cyber penetration testing.
  • Demonstrated experience applying computer attack methods, system exploitation techniques, and leveraging adversarial tactics to conduct hands-on security testing.
  • Strong working knowledge of cyber security principles for Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms (including hypervisors).
  • Demonstrated experience designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture and complex Windows installations.
  • Proven ability to perform network security analysis, analyze network architectures, and utilize network management tools.
  • Experience developing risk management methodologies and analyzing test results to develop risk and threat mitigation plans.
  • Experience testing or reviewing system configuration, development, and design, specifically for enterprise-scale systems.

Desired Experience
We encourage all candidates who meet the basic requirements to apply, even if you do not have any of the following experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related scientific/technical discipline.
  • Experience participating in public and private information security groups and professional organizations.
  • Proven ability to communicate complex vulnerability results and risk posture effectively to senior executives.
  • Experience researching, evaluating, and developing security policies and guidance.
  • History of performing complex technical tasks with minimal direction in a fast-paced environment.

The salary range provided for this position represents the anticipated base salary for successful candidates. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, security clearance level, geographic location, market conditions, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, eligible employees may participate in Redhorse's comprehensive benefits programs and may be eligible for performance-based or other incentive compensation, where applicable.
Redhorse Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Talent Acquisition at
Redhorse Corporation shall, in its discretion, modify or adjust the position to meet Redhorse's changing needs. This job description is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in Redhorse's sole discretion.