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Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $147K/yr

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

ASRC Federal Technology Solutions is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to lead advanced ... across cybersecurity disciplines. Work Location : Hybrid, DC (3 days per week onsite ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Experience in cyber security with a focus on red teaming, penetration testing, or threat hunting. Desired Qualifications: * Strong understanding of network protocols and troubleshooting, server and ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Possess extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security ... TS/SCI with Poly Level 2 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Possess extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security ... TS/SCI with Poly Level 2 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester ...

ASRC Federal Technology Solutions is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to lead advanced ... across cybersecurity disciplines. Work Location : Hybrid, DC (3 days per week onsite ...

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Possess extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security ... TS/SCI with Poly Level 2 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester ...

Providing intelligence, IT, cyber security, training, logistics, administrative, acquisition, and background investigation services. Summary: The Senior Penetration Tester will independently perform ...

WarCollar Industries, LLC is a veteran-owned small business dedicated to cybersecurity. They are seeking a highly skilled Penetration Tester to conduct technical security assessments and strengthen ...

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Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester information

See salary details

$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do freelance cybersecurity penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance cybersecurity penetration tester 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 a freelance cybersecurity penetration tester?

To thrive as a Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester, you need a solid foundation in network security, ethical hacking methodologies, and vulnerability assessment, often supported by certifications like CEH or OSCP. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Kali Linux is essential for testing and exploiting security flaws. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and clear client communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure you can effectively identify vulnerabilities, communicate risks to clients, and help organizations strengthen their security posture.

What does a freelance cybersecurity penetration tester do?

A freelance cybersecurity penetration tester is an independent security professional who is hired to assess the security of computer systems, networks, or applications by simulating cyberattacks. Their main goal is to identify vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit and to provide recommendations for improving security. Unlike in-house testers, freelancers work on a contract basis for various clients, often using specialized tools and methodologies to conduct their assessments. They typically deliver detailed reports outlining their findings and suggested fixes.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance cybersecurity penetration testers when working with clients?

Freelance penetration testers often encounter challenges such as clearly defining the scope of testing, ensuring legal authorization, and managing communication with clients who may have varying levels of cybersecurity awareness. Additionally, freelancers must often adapt quickly to different network environments and security policies, while maintaining thorough documentation of their findings. Effective time management and client education are crucial for delivering valuable, actionable results and building long-term professional relationships.

What is the difference between Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester vs Freelance Security Analyst?

AspectFreelance Cybersecurity Penetration TesterFreelance Security Analyst
CertificationsCEH, OSCP, GPENCISSP, GIAC Security Essentials
Work EnvironmentSimulates attacks on systems to find vulnerabilitiesMonitors and analyzes security systems for threats
Employer UsageClients seeking penetration testing servicesOrganizations needing ongoing security monitoring

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Testers actively simulate attacks to identify weaknesses, whereas Freelance Security Analysts monitor and analyze security data to prevent breaches. The choice depends on whether the client needs testing or ongoing security management.

More about Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs? The most popular types of Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Cybersecurity Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester

asrcfh

Quantico, VA โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

ASRC Federal is actively hiring an Assured Compliance Assessment Solution (ACAS) Engineer in support of our Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA) program based out of Quantico VA.

Remote flexibility available! Telework offered with a requirement to be onsite up to two (2) days a week at Quantico Marine Corps Base VA.

Position Description:

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. This role requires a deep understanding of security principles, hacking techniques, and attack methodologies. The Penetration Tester will plan, execute, and document penetration tests, provide recommendations for remediation, and contribute to the overall improvement of the organization's security posture.

Minimum Requirements:ย 

  • Minimum of 5 โ€“ 7 years of experience in security principles such as attack frameworks, threat landscapes, and attacker tactics, techniques and procedures.ย 
  • Proven experience conducting penetration tests of web applications, networks, and other systems.
  • Experience with a variety of penetration testing tools and techniques (e.g., Rapid7 Nexpose, Appspider Pro, Metasploit, Cobalt Strike and/or Burp Suite).
  • Active Top-Secret Clearance REQUIRED, eligible to be upgraded to TS/SCI
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • Must meet 8570 certification requirements at the time of hire.ย  IAT II Information Assurance Baseline (e.g., CASP+ CE, CCMP Security, CISA, CISSP, GCED, GCIH, Security+ CE or CCSP) In addition to the IA baseline, a CSSP Auditor cert is preferred (e.g., CEH, CySA+, CISA, GSNA, CFR or PenTest)ย 

ย 

Responsibilities:

  • Penetration Testing:
    • Conduct penetration tests of web applications, mobile applications, networks, cloud environments, and other systems.
    • Utilize a variety of tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities, including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), buffer overflows, and other common attack vectors.
    • Perform reconnaissance to gather information about target systems and networks.
    • Develop and execute exploit code to demonstrate the impact of identified vulnerabilities.
    • Bypass security controls and evade detection.
  • Vulnerability Assessment:
    • Perform vulnerability assessments using automated scanning tools and manual techniques.
    • Analyze scan results to identify false positives and prioritize vulnerabilities.
    • Develop custom scripts and tools to automate vulnerability assessment tasks.
  • Reporting and Documentation:
    • Document all findings in detailed and comprehensive reports, including descriptions of vulnerabilities, methods used to exploit them, and recommendations for remediation.
    • Present findings to stakeholders, including technical teams and management.
    • Create and maintain documentation on penetration testing methodologies, tools, and techniques.
  • Remediation Support:
    • Provide guidance and technical assistance to system owners and developers on vulnerability remediation.
    • Validate remediation efforts to ensure that vulnerabilities have been properly addressed.
    • Conduct retests to verify the effectiveness of implemented security controls.
  • Research and Development:
    • Stay up-to-date on the latest security threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques.
    • Research and evaluate new penetration testing tools and methodologies.
    • Develop custom tools and scripts to enhance penetration testing capabilities.
    • Contribute to the development of security policies and procedures.
  • Collaboration:
    • Collaborate with other cybersecurity professionals, including security architects, incident responders, and security engineers.
    • Share knowledge and expertise with team members.
    • Participate in security training and awareness programs.
  • 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 data.
    • Respect the privacy of users and systems.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:ย 

  • This is primarily a Telework position with a requirement to be onsite up to two (2) days a week
  • If alternate worksite is other than DCSA facilities or corporate office space, must have the reliable ability to communicate over voice (cell phone preferred) and stable, capable internet connection
  • Must be able to communicate complex technical ideas to a diverse customer base both verbally and in written form