Freelancer - AI Red Team Experts
New York, NY · On-site +1
Stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in AI security, ethical hacking, and cyber threats. Apply innovative testing methodologies to ensure cutting-edge security practices.
Freelancer - AI Red Team Experts
New York, NY · On-site +1
Stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in AI security, ethical hacking, and cyber threats. Apply innovative testing methodologies to ensure cutting-edge security practices.
Freelance Ethical Hacker information
See salary details
$23.52 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.90 - $25.57
31% of jobs
The median wage is $32.14 / hr.
$25.57 - $36.23
31% of jobs
$36.23 - $46.90
4% of jobs
$56.23 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$46.90 - $57.56
10% of jobs
$57.56 - $68.23
9% of jobs
$68.23 - $78.89
5% of jobs
$78.89 - $89.55
0% of jobs
$89.55 - $100.22
8% of jobs
$100.22 - $110.88
0% of jobs
$110.88 - $121.55
0% of jobs
$121.55 - $132.21
1% of jobs
$14
$47
$132
How much do freelance ethical hacker jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance ethical hacker in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Freelance Ethical Hacker vs Penetration Tester?
| Aspect | Freelance Ethical Hacker | Penetration Tester |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | CEH, OSCP, CISSP | OSCP, GPEN, CREST |
| Work Environment | Independent, client-based projects | Often in consulting firms or in-house teams |
| Industry Usage | Freelancers or contractors across various industries | Security firms, corporate security teams |
Both roles focus on identifying security vulnerabilities, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference is that Freelance Ethical Hackers work independently on diverse client projects, while Penetration Testers may work within organizations or security firms, often following structured testing methodologies.
How much do freelance ethical hackers make?
Freelance ethical hackers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects. Experienced professionals with specialized skills in penetration testing and security assessments can charge higher rates, often working on a project basis or retainer agreements.
Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?
Freelance ethical hackers can potentially earn $500,000 annually by working on high-value contracts, specializing in advanced skills like penetration testing, and building a strong reputation. Achieving this level of income typically requires extensive experience, certifications such as OSCP or CISSP, and a robust client network. However, such earnings are uncommon and depend on market demand, skill level, and business acumen.
Is 25 too late for cyber security?
As a freelance ethical hacker, age is not a barrier to entering cybersecurity; many professionals start in the field later in life. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills, certifications like CEH or OSCP, and practical experience, regardless of age.
Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?
Freelance ethical hackers can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually by gaining advanced skills, certifications like OSCP or CISSP, and working with high-value clients or complex projects. Income varies based on experience, specialization, and the scope of engagements, with top professionals often working independently or through consulting firms. Consistent high earnings typically require a strong reputation, continuous learning, and effective marketing of services.
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What cities are hiring for Freelance Ethical Hacker jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Ethical Hacker job openings:
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Job description
Description
Alice.io (formerly known as ActiveFence) is a leading trust, safety, and security company. Just like 'Alice' herself, we go down the rabbit hole into the emerging world of AI and focus on safeguarding these technologies. In a world where AI has fundamentally changed the nature of risk, Alice offers coverage across the entire AI lifecycle.
We're currently on the ground floor of an exciting new initiative: building an "Elite Collective" of the world's premier cyber specialists-high-stakes, project-based work for the "best of the best" red-teamers in the industry.
Work is on-demand and project-dependent, scaling up and down based on the needs of the client. This is not a high-volume, repetitive role; it is an opportunity to be tapped for specific, high-impact interventions when your unique expertise is required.
The most sophisticated technology challenges in the world are waiting down the rabbit hole. We're looking for the sharpest minds to help us secure the frontier.
The invitation is open: Come join us at the tea party.
About the position:
As one of Alice's Security Red Team Specialists, you'll focus on Generative AI Models. You will play a critical role in enhancing the security and integrity of our cutting-edge AI technologies.
Your primary responsibility will be to conduct analysis and testing of our generative AI systems, including but not limited to language models, image generation models, and any related infrastructure.
Your objective is to help clients secure their AI models and frameworks by identifying weaknesses, assessing risks, and providing clear steps for improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Requirements
Must-Have:
Nice-to-Have:
All applicants will be required to complete a screening exam and background check.
Alice.io (formerly known as ActiveFence) is a leading trust, safety, and security company. Just like 'Alice' herself, we go down the rabbit hole into the emerging world of AI and focus on safeguarding these technologies. In a world where AI has fundamentally changed the nature of risk, Alice offers coverage across the entire AI lifecycle.
We're currently on the ground floor of an exciting new initiative: building an "Elite Collective" of the world's premier cyber specialists-high-stakes, project-based work for the "best of the best" red-teamers in the industry.
Work is on-demand and project-dependent, scaling up and down based on the needs of the client. This is not a high-volume, repetitive role; it is an opportunity to be tapped for specific, high-impact interventions when your unique expertise is required.
The most sophisticated technology challenges in the world are waiting down the rabbit hole. We're looking for the sharpest minds to help us secure the frontier.
The invitation is open: Come join us at the tea party.
About the position:
As one of Alice's Security Red Team Specialists, you'll focus on Generative AI Models. You will play a critical role in enhancing the security and integrity of our cutting-edge AI technologies.
Your primary responsibility will be to conduct analysis and testing of our generative AI systems, including but not limited to language models, image generation models, and any related infrastructure.
Your objective is to help clients secure their AI models and frameworks by identifying weaknesses, assessing risks, and providing clear steps for improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Simulated Cyber Attacks: Conduct sophisticated and comprehensive simulated attacks on generative AI models and their operating environments to uncover vulnerabilities.
- Vulnerability Assessment: Evaluate the security posture of AI models and infrastructure, identifying weaknesses and potential threats.
- Risk Analysis: Perform thorough risk analysis to determine the impact of identified vulnerabilities and prioritize mitigation efforts.
- Mitigation Strategies: Collaborate with development and security teams to develop effective strategies to mitigate identified risks and enhance model resilience.
- Research and Innovation: Stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in AI security, ethical hacking, and cyber threats. Apply innovative testing methodologies to ensure cutting-edge security practices.
- Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed documentation of all red team activities, findings, and recommendations. Prepare and present reports to senior management and relevant stakeholders.
Requirements
Must-Have:
- Proven experience in AI vulnerabilities analysis
- Strong understanding of AI technologies and their underlying architectures, especially generative models and agentic frameworks.
- At Least 5 years of experience in Web Penetration testing.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
Nice-to-Have:
- Proficiency in Python or NodeJS
- Advanced Certifications in offensive cybersecurity (e.g. OSWE, OSCE3, SEC542, SEC522) are highly desirable.
- Familiarity with agentic frameworks and agentic development experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field.
- Proven records for vulnerability disclosure, such as CVE
All applicants will be required to complete a screening exam and background check.