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Freelance Physical Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

kgs

Penetration Testers - Senior (Lead)

Washington, DC · On-site

Lead social engineering assessments, including phishing and spear-phishing campaigns, vishing exercises, and physical penetration testing activities, to evaluate SBA's human and physical security ...

kgs

Penetration Testers - Senior (Lead)

Washington, DC · On-site

Lead social engineering assessments, including phishing and spear-phishing campaigns, vishing exercises, and physical penetration testing activities, to evaluate SBA's human and physical security ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

This role combines hands-on testing with leadership, mentoring, and collaboration across ... Ensure compliance with business continuity, operations security, insider threat detection, physical ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

This role combines hands-on testing with leadership, mentoring, and collaboration across ... Ensure compliance with business continuity, operations security, insider threat detection, physical ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

Experience with a variety of penetration testing tools and techniques (e.g., Rapid7 Nexpose ... Work Environment and Physical Demands: * This is primarily a Telework position with a requirement ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · On-site

$130K - $147K/yr

Experience with a variety of penetration testing tools and techniques (e.g., Rapid7 Nexpose ... Work Environment and Physical Demands: * This is primarily a Telework position with a requirement ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

Experience with a variety of penetration testing tools and techniques (e.g., Rapid7 Nexpose ... Work Environment and Physical Demands: * This is primarily a Telework position with a requirement ...

gTANGIBLE

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

Penetration testing will use both automated tools and manual techniques in order to identify ... physical or mental disability, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, or ...

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Freelance Physical Penetration Testing information

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How much do freelance physical penetration testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance physical penetration testing 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 freelance physical penetration testing?

Freelance physical penetration testing involves independent security professionals being hired on a contract basis to simulate unauthorized attempts to access a client's physical premises, such as offices or data centers. These testers use various techniques to bypass security controls like locks, doors, or access systems, with the goal of identifying vulnerabilities before real criminals can exploit them. Their findings help organizations strengthen physical security measures and protocols. Freelance testers often work with diverse clients, offering flexibility and specialized expertise compared to in-house teams. The work requires a deep understanding of security systems, creativity, and strict ethical standards.

How do freelance physical penetration testers typically collaborate with client security teams during an engagement?

Freelance physical penetration testers work closely with client security teams to define the scope of the assessment, understand on-site protocols, and establish clear communication channels. Prior to testing, they coordinate with designated contacts to ensure safety, minimize operational disruptions, and clarify escalation procedures in case of unexpected incidents. Throughout the engagement, testers provide timely updates and collaborate on findings, offering actionable recommendations to strengthen physical security. This collaborative approach helps clients gain the most value from the assessment while maintaining trust and transparency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance physical penetration tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Physical Penetration Tester, you need expertise in security assessment, knowledge of physical security systems, and an understanding of threat modeling, often supported by certifications like OSCP or physical security credentials. Familiarity with tools such as lock picking sets, RFID cloners, and access control testing equipment is typically required. Outstanding soft skills include discretion, creative problem-solving, and strong communication for effective client interaction and detailed reporting. These skills are crucial to accurately assess vulnerabilities, respect ethical boundaries, and deliver actionable insights to improve organizational security.

What is the difference between Freelance Physical Penetration Testing vs Freelance Cybersecurity Consultant?

AspectFreelance Physical Penetration TestingFreelance Cybersecurity Consultant
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, CPTCISSP, CISA, CEH
Work EnvironmentOn-site security assessments, physical testingRemote or on-site cybersecurity strategy and analysis
Industry UsageSecurity firms, corporate security teamsIT firms, organizations seeking cybersecurity advice
Search & Comparison IntentPhysical security testing, penetration testingCybersecurity consulting, security assessments

Freelance Physical Penetration Testing focuses on assessing physical security measures through on-site testing, while Freelance Cybersecurity Consultant provides strategic cybersecurity advice, often remotely. Both roles require security certifications but differ in their scope and environment.

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Freelance Physical Penetration Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Physical Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Physical Penetration Tester

Security1stconsulting

Newport News, VA • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Physical Penetration Tester assesses the physical access controls across NNPS facilities, testing whether unauthorized individuals could gain access to sensitive areas including server rooms, data center spaces, and administrative offices. All testing is coordinated in advance with NNPS and S1C, conducted within an approved written test plan, and timed to avoid any disruption to school operations or student safety

Responsibilities
  • Design and execute physical penetration testing scenarios to evaluate physical access controls at NNPS facilities.
  • Test badge access systems, entry point controls, tailgating vulnerabilities, and visitor management processes.
  • Assess physical security of server rooms, data center spaces, and sensitive administrative infrastructure.
  • Coordinate all physical testing timing with the S1C Project Manager and NNPS IT team before any on‑site activity.
  • Document all physical access vulnerabilities with specific locations, methods observed, and remediation steps.
  • Ensure all activities are conducted within the approved test plan scope — no unauthorized expansion of testing.
  • Certify compliance with Virginia Code §22.1-296.1 before conducting any work at NNPS facilities during school hours.
RequirementsRequired Qualifications
  • Demonstrated experience conducting physical penetration tests in institutional or enterprise environments.
  • Proficiency with physical security testing techniques including badge cloning, lock assessment, and access control evaluation.
  • Strong documentation skills — findings must include specific locations, vulnerability descriptions, and remediation steps.
  • Professional discipline to operate within a defined scope in an active school environment.
  • No felony convictions; must be able to certify compliance with Virginia Code §22.1-296.1.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Physical security certifications such as CPP (Certified Protection Professional) or PSP (Physical Security Professional).
  • Prior experience conducting physical pen tests at schools, government buildings, or critical facilities.
  • Experience coordinating physical testing alongside a concurrent cybersecurity engagement
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