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Ethical Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... security testing techniques. *** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or ... SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Ethical Hacker, Vulnerability Analyst, Security Consultant, Red Team ...

Must have experience with penetration testing tools. * Must have experience in web development and ... Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) * Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) * Certified Web ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and ... Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus * Strong ...

$210K - $220K/yr

Must have experience with penetration testing tools. * Must have experience in web development and ... Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) * Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) * Certified Web ...

Must have experience with penetration testing tools. * Must have experience in web development and ... Certified Ethical Hacker CEH * Certified Information Security Manager CISM * Certified Web ...

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86.80K - $198K/yr

Conduct testing and analysis to identify vulnerabilities and potential threat vectors in systems ... ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own ...

Conduct testing and analysis to identify vulnerabilities and potential threat vectors in systems ... ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own ...

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Ethical Penetration Testing information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do ethical penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for ethical 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 Ethical Penetration Tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ethical Penetration Tester, you need strong knowledge of network security, operating systems, and common vulnerabilities, typically backed by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and relevant certifications like CEH or OSCP. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap is essential for simulating and assessing security threats. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for identifying risks and clearly reporting findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders. These competencies ensure that security assessments are thorough, actionable, and help organizations strengthen their defenses against real-world cyber threats.

What are some common challenges faced by ethical penetration testers during client engagements?

Ethical penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes to conduct thorough assessments, incomplete or ambiguous scope definitions from clients, and the need to balance effective testing with minimal disruption to live systems. Communication is key—testers must clearly report findings and collaborate with IT teams to remediate vulnerabilities. Additionally, staying current with emerging threats and tools is essential to deliver valuable insights and maintain industry standards.

What is ethical penetration testing?

Ethical penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, is the practice of simulating cyberattacks on a computer system, network, or application with the permission of its owner. The goal is to identify security vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. Ethical penetration testers use the same tools and techniques as cybercriminals but report findings so they can be fixed, helping organizations strengthen their security. This process is a critical part of a comprehensive cybersecurity program and helps ensure compliance with industry regulations.

What is the difference between Ethical Penetration Testing vs Vulnerability Analyst?

AspectEthical Penetration TestingVulnerability Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentSimulated attacks on systems to identify security gapsAnalyzing vulnerabilities and assessing risk levels
Industry UsageSecurity firms, IT departments, consultingSecurity teams, risk management, compliance

Ethical Penetration Testers actively simulate cyberattacks to find exploitable weaknesses, while Vulnerability Analysts focus on identifying and prioritizing security flaws through assessments. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same industry sectors, but their core activities differ: testing versus analysis.

More about Ethical Penetration Testing jobs
What cities are hiring for Ethical Penetration Testing jobs? Cities with the most Ethical Penetration Testing job openings:
What states have the most Ethical Penetration Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Ethical Penetration Testing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ethical Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 15% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 50% Physical, and 50% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

Cymertek

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Penetration Tester
LOCATION
Aurora, CO 80014
CLEARANCE
TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship)
KEY SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly skilled and proactive Penetration Tester to join our cybersecurity team. In this role, you will identify vulnerabilities and test the security of networks, applications, and systems by simulating real-world attacks. You will collaborate with teams to develop actionable recommendations, enhance security measures, and ensure the organization's defenses remain robust against evolving threats. The ideal candidate is passionate about ethical hacking, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is eager to contribute to protecting critical assets through innovative security testing techniques.
*** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or close quickly (much faster than we can publish). If you do not see an opening you are looking for, know that we see almost all types of positons. We strive to keep our listings up to date, but please consider submitting your current resume. Our team will work with you to identify the most recent opportunities that align with your skillset and career goals. We look forward to you joining our family. ***
SIMILAR CAREER TITLES
Ethical Hacker, Vulnerability Analyst, Security Consultant, Red Team Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Application Security Tester, Security Engineer, Offensive Security Engineer, Security Assessment Specialist, Cyber Threat Analyst, Exploit Developer, etc.
DEGREE (Level Desired)
Bachelor's Degree
DEGREE (Focus)
Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Security, Network Security, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Digital Forensics, Ethical Hacking, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, etc.
ALTERNATE EXPERIENCE
General comment on degrees: Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some contracts give 4-5 years experience credit for a Bachelor's Degree. Some contracts give 2 years experience credit for a Master's Degree. We will work with you to find the right fit.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests
  • Develop detailed reports outlining security findings and recommendations
  • Simulate real-world attack scenarios to test defenses
  • Identify and exploit vulnerabilities in networks, applications, and systems
  • Collaborate with teams to implement remediation strategies
  • Ensure compliance with industry security standards and frameworks

REQUIRED SKILLS
  • Proficiency in penetration testing tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, or Nessus
  • Strong understanding of networking protocols and configurations
  • Expertise in scripting languages such as Python, Bash, or PowerShell
  • Knowledge of OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies
  • Familiarity with operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS
  • Ability to document and communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences

DESIRED SKILLS
  • Familiarity with social engineering techniques
  • Knowledge of mobile application penetration testing
  • Experience with cloud security assessments (e.g., AWS, Azure)
  • Expertise in reverse engineering and malware analysis
  • Understanding of advanced persistent threats (APTs)
  • Experience with red team/blue team exercises

PLUG IN to CYMERTEK - And design your future...
YOUR FOREVER CAREER STARTS HERE
Are you looking for more than just a job? Join a company where employees are treated like family, and your career is built to last. We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting services in information technology, cybersecurity, and analyst workforce development.
At our company, you come first. We're committed to creating an environment where you'll thrive professionally and personally. We provide meaningful, challenging work using cutting-edge technologies while investing in your growth and success. With direct access to company leadership, a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere, and exceptional work-life balance, you'll feel valued every day.
We also believe in taking care of our family - both yours and ours. Our benefits are phenomenal, family-friendly, and designed with your well-being in mind. From employee and family events to career-long support, we create a community you'll never want to leave.
Ready to make your next move the best one? Join us and experience the difference.
BENEFITS
  • Excellent Salaries
  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Cafeteria Style Benefits
  • 10% - 401k Matching (Vested Immediately)
  • Additional 401k Profit Sharing
  • 30 days Paid Leave/Holiday (No Use or Lose!)
  • The day off for your birthday
  • Medical/Dental/Vision - 100% employee coverage. ($1200 allowance - or a bonus)
  • HSA/FSA
  • AFLAC
  • Long Term/Short Term Disability - 100% employee coverage. No cost to you.
  • Life Insurance - 100% employee coverage. No cost to you.
  • Additional Discretionary Life Insurance
  • Paid Training
  • No long, wordy reviews with tons of paperwork!!!
  • Referral bonus program with recurring annual payments

HOW TO APPLY
Email us at jobs@cymertek.com or apply today: www.cymertek.com
Want to see what our employees think? Click here .
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT
Cymertek is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We embrace and celebrate differences in our employees, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances our creativity, innovation, and overall success. At Cymertek, employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We believe in creating an environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and where opportunities for professional growth and advancement are accessible to everyone, regardless of background or identity.