1

Freelance Offensive Security Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Offensive Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

We are seeking candidates with a passion for offensive security, deep technical expertise in ... Experience in reverse engineering thick‑client and mobile applications to identify ...

Senior Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$116K - $159K/yr

Required : • 6+ years of professional security engineering experience • Deep hands-on experience with offensive security: red teaming, penetration testing, or vulnerability research • ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freelance Offensive Security Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance offensive security engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Offensive Security Engineer, you need deep expertise in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and cybersecurity best practices, often backed by certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and scripting languages like Python is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and effective client communication set standout professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for identifying and mitigating security risks while maintaining client trust and delivering high-value security assessments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance offensive security engineers when working with multiple clients?

Freelance Offensive Security Engineers often juggle multiple projects for different clients, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Each client may have unique security requirements, varying network environments, and distinct expectations for deliverables. Additionally, staying updated on the latest vulnerabilities and attack techniques is crucial, as clients rely on your expertise for thorough assessments. Clear communication and diligent documentation are essential to ensure that findings and recommendations are understood and actionable for each client.

What is a freelance offensive security engineer?

Freelance Offensive Security Engineers are independent cybersecurity professionals who specialize in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities within computer systems, networks, and applications. They are hired by organizations on a contract basis to conduct penetration testing, red teaming, and security assessments to help improve the organization's defenses. Unlike in-house employees, freelancers work for multiple clients and often bring a diverse range of experience from different industries. Their primary goal is to simulate real-world attacks and provide detailed reports with recommendations to enhance security posture.

What is the difference between Freelance Offensive Security Engineer vs Penetration Tester?

AspectFreelance Offensive Security EngineerPenetration Tester
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, OSWEOSCP, CEH, GPEN
Work EnvironmentProject-based, remote or on-site, client-specificTypically consulting, testing environments, often on-site or remote
Employer/Industry UsageFreelance, cybersecurity firms, consultingSecurity firms, internal security teams, consulting

Freelance Offensive Security Engineers and Penetration Testers both focus on identifying security vulnerabilities. However, Freelance Offensive Security Engineers often work on broader offensive security projects, including red teaming and security architecture, while Penetration Testers primarily conduct targeted vulnerability assessments. The roles overlap but differ in scope and depth of engagement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Offensive Security Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Offensive Security Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Offensive Security Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Freelance Offensive Security Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Offensive Security Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Offensive Security Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Offensive Security Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Freelance Offensive Security Engineer job openings:

Offensive Security Engineer

TwinThread

Mclean, VA • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

This position is also open in the following locations: Chicago, IL / Tampa, FL / Atlanta, FL / Plano, TX / Houston, TX / Brooklyn, NY / Columbus, OH / Washington, DC / McLean, VA / Jersey City, NJ / Wilmington, DE

Drive the security of critical banking applications and platforms through hands-on offensive testing.

As an Assessments & Exercises Vice President in the Cybersecurity and Technology Controls organization, you will play a key role in safeguarding the firm’s most vital assets. Your primary responsibility will be to plan, execute, and report on penetration tests targeting high-impact applications, platforms, and services. Leveraging industry-standard methodologies and advanced techniques, you will proactively identify vulnerabilities, collaborate with application owners to understand root causes, and guide effective remediation to strengthen the firm’s security posture.

We are seeking candidates with a passion for offensive security, deep technical expertise in penetration testing, and a commitment to continuous learning and excellence.

Job responsibilities
  • Plan, scope, and execute penetration testing engagements across a variety of environments, including web applications, APIs, cloud platforms, infrastructure, thick-client, and/or mobile applications.
  • Collect and validate pre-requisites for each engagement, ensuring all necessary access, documentation, and approvals are in place.
  • Perform manual and automated testing to identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and security weaknesses, leveraging industry-standard tools and custom scripts.
  • Document and communicate findings through comprehensive reports that include technical details, risk assessments, and actionable remediation recommendations.
  • Conduct peer reviews of penetration test reports to ensure accuracy, consistency, and quality of deliverables.
  • Collaborate with development, infrastructure, and security teams to clarify findings, support remediation efforts, and provide subject matter expertise on offensive security.
  • Stay current with emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques by leveraging threat intelligence, security research, and participation in relevant industry groups.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of penetration testing methodologies, tools, and frameworks to enhance effectiveness and alignment with firm strategy and regulatory requirements.
Required qualifications, capabilities, and skills
  • 5+ years of hands‑on penetration testing experience in offensive security, with a proven track record of scoping, executing, and reporting on complex engagements.
  • Expertise in manual penetration testing of web, API, cloud (AWS/Azure/GCP), infrastructure, thick-client, and/or mobile applications (android/iOS), including the use of industry-standard tools (e.g., Burp Suite, Nmap, Metasploit, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of security assessment methodologies such as OWASP Top Ten, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and other relevant standards.
  • Ability to identify and articulate systemic security issues related to threats, vulnerabilities, and risks, and provide clear, actionable recommendations for remediation.
  • Exceptional organizational and communication skills, including the ability to write detailed technical reports and present findings to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
  • Experience conducting peer reviews of penetration test reports and mentoring junior testers.
  • Continuous learner who keeps up with the latest offensive security trends, tools, and techniques.
Preferred qualifications, capabilities, and skills
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity practices, operational risk management, and incident response methodologies within the US financial services sector, including relevant regulations, threats, and risks.
  • Proficiency in penetration testing and security concepts for both Windows and Unix‑like operating systems.
  • Experience conducting security‑focused source code reviews (e.g., Python, Java, Rust).
  • Experience in reverse engineering thick‑client and mobile applications to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Relevant certifications such as OSWE, CREST (CRT, CCT), OSCP, OSCE, GXPN, GWAPT, GPEN, GMOB, or BSCP.

Chase is a leading financial services firm, helping nearly half of America’s households and small businesses achieve their financial goals through a broad range of financial products. Our mission is to create engaged, lifelong relationships and put our customers at the heart of everything we do. We also help small businesses, nonprofits and cities grow, delivering solutions to solve all their financial needs.

We offer a competitive total rewards package including base salary determined based on the role, experience, skill set and location. Those in eligible roles may receive commission‑based pay and/or discretionary incentive compensation, paid in the form of cash and/or forfeitable equity, awarded in recognition of individual achievements and contributions. We also offer a range of benefits and programs to meet employee needs, based on eligibility. These benefits include comprehensive health care coverage, on‑site health and wellness centers, a retirement savings plan, backup childcare, tuition reimbursement, mental health support, financial coaching and more. Additional details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

We recognize that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our global workforce are directly linked to our success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants’ and employees’ religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. Visit FAQs for more information about requesting an accommodation.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans

#J-18808-Ljbffr