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Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing Jobs

Perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments of systems, networks, and applications. * Provide detailed analysis of discovered vulnerabilities, gaps, and risks, including assessment of ...

Perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments of systems, networks, and applications. * Provide detailed analysis of discovered vulnerabilities, gaps, and risks, including assessment of ...

Perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments of systems, networks, and applications. * Provide detailed analysis of discovered vulnerabilities, gaps, and risks, including assessment of ...

Proven proficiency performing CCRI/ vulnerability assessment/ penetration testing on networks, databases, computer applications and IT frameworks. * Knowledge and understanding of DOD security ...

Senior Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$145K - $180K/yr

Conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments on Azure cloud infrastructure and applications * Lead and mentor a team of penetration testers, providing guidance and sharing expertise

MD · On-site

This position performs advanced penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, security research, exploitation activities, and technical consulting across federal systems, applications, cloud ...

Exploitation Engineer Lead IV

Arlington, VA · On-site

$117K - $155K/yr

Lead vulnerability assessment and penetration testing activities against enterprise infrastructure, applications, databases, and cloud environments. * Conduct advanced security testing to identify ...

Exploitation Engineer Lead IV

Arlington, VA · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

Lead vulnerability assessment and penetration testing activities against enterprise infrastructure, applications, databases, and cloud environments. * Conduct advanced security testing to identify ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do freelance vulnerability assessment penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance vulnerability assessment 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 is a freelance vulnerability assessment penetration tester?

Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testers are independent cybersecurity professionals who evaluate computer systems, networks, and applications to identify security weaknesses and vulnerabilities. They perform penetration tests (ethical hacking) to simulate cyberattacks and assess how well a system can withstand real threats. These freelancers work with various clients, including businesses and organizations, to provide detailed reports and recommendations for improving security. Their expertise helps companies proactively protect their digital assets and comply with industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance vulnerability assessment penetration tester?

To thrive as a Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Tester, you need deep knowledge of network security, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles, often supported by certifications like OSCP or CEH. Proficiency with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Wireshark is crucial for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and clear reporting skills help communicate risks and recommendations to clients. These skills are essential for accurately assessing security posture, providing actionable insights, and maintaining client trust in a highly technical and evolving field.

What are the typical challenges faced by freelance vulnerability assessment penetration testers when working with multiple clients?

Freelance vulnerability assessment and penetration testers often encounter challenges like managing diverse client expectations, adapting to varying IT environments, and keeping up with the latest security threats and tools. Each project may require different methodologies and reporting styles, so strong organizational skills and clear communication are crucial. Additionally, freelancers must ensure they maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive data securely, while also juggling multiple projects with tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing vs Freelance Security Analyst?

AspectFreelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration TestingFreelance Security Analyst
CertificationsCEH, OSCP, GPENCISSP, CISA, GIAC
Work EnvironmentProject-based, client sites, remoteConsulting, risk assessment, policy development
Industry UsageCybersecurity testing, penetration testing firmsSecurity consulting, compliance, threat analysis

Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing focuses on identifying and exploiting security weaknesses through hands-on testing. Freelance Security Analysts analyze security systems, assess risks, and develop security strategies. While both roles require cybersecurity certifications and involve security assessments, penetration testers are more technical and exploit-focused, whereas security analysts emphasize strategic analysis and policy development.

How much do freelance vulnerability assessment penetration testers make?

Freelance vulnerability assessment penetration testers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and project complexity. Many also charge fixed project rates or daily rates, with experienced professionals earning higher fees for specialized skills and tools like Kali Linux or Burp Suite.
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Infographic showing various Freelance Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester with Security Clearance

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive penetration testing on hardware, software, and network components.

  • Perform vulnerability scanning, assessments, and cybersecurity evaluations to identify and analyze security weaknesses.

  • Develop and execute exploits, analyze firmware and embedded systems, and report findings with recommendations for remediation.


Job description

Penetration Tester Colorado Springs, CO Apply Dark Wolf is actively seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our innovative team. This individual will play a critical role in assessing and enhancing the security of various products, including hardware, software, and embedded systems. This role demands a deep understanding of penetration testing methodologies and advanced exploit development, focusing on identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities across a wide range of technologies. As a Junior Product and Hardware Security Penetration Tester, you will have the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies and contribute to the enhancement of security across a wide range of products. If you possess a strong background in penetration testing and a passion for cybersecurity, we encourage you to apply for this pivotal role. This position is set to be supported in a hybrid work environment out of the DC Metro area. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to: * Conducting comprehensive penetration testing on hardware, software, and network components. * Performing advanced vulnerability scanning and assessments on all components. * Performing a Cybersecurity evaluation of the product under test to identify vulnerabilities that would negatively impact the Confidentiality, Integrity, or Availability of system data or functionality. * Analyzing software, firmware, hardware, and/or RF components within the system. * Opining on the impact and level of effort required to exploit the identified vulnerabilities as well as providing information on a high-level remediation strategy. * Developing and executing exploits and proof-of-concept (PoC) attacks to demonstrate the impact of identified vulnerabilities. * Analyzing and reverse engineering firmware and embedded systems to identify security weaknesses. * Testing and assessing the security of secure boot processes and Trusted Execution Environments (TEE). * Conducting web application security assessments, focusing on OWASP Top Ten vulnerabilities and API security testing. * Performing manual verification of vulnerabilities, assessing their risk and exploitability. * Engaging in wireless and RF security testing, including penetration testing on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee networks. * Utilizing Software Defined Radio (SDR) for protocol reverse engineering and testing. * Reporting detailed findings, documenting case details, and providing actionable recommendations for remediation to enhance product security based on system analysis. * Planning and executing full-scale, cross-domain vulnerability assessments, network penetration testing, and phishing/social engineering campaigns. Required Qualifications: * Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, or a related field * Minimum of 2+ years’ experience in three or more specific areas to include: intelligence analysis, network engineering, networking security, penetration testing, red team operations, hardware engineering, software engineering, exploit development, reverse engineering, vulnerability assessment, physical security assessments, or social engineering * Proficiency with cloud technology and deployments across Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) * Proficiency in the testing and assessment of mobile operating systems, embedded systems, and/or IoT devices * Experience in drafting reports, documenting case details, and summarizing findings and recommendations based on system analysis * Experience performing advanced vulnerability scanning and assessments on all components * Experience conducting web application security assessments, focusing on OWASP Top Ten vulnerabilities and API security testing * Demonstrated strong written and verbal communication skills * Strong understanding of NIST 800-53 frameworks * US Citizenship and an active security clearance at a minimum of the Secret Level Desired Qualifications: * Proven ability to develop and execute complex exploits and PoC attacks * Strong analytical skills and experience in firmware, binary exploitation, and embedded systems testing * Advanced knowledge of Software Defined Radio (SDR) and protocol reverse engineering * Active professional certifications such as CEH, OSCP, PNPT, GPEN, or similar security/pen testing certifications The salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $145,000.00 commensurate on experience and technical skillset.  We are open to considering a variety of levels of experience for these projects and potential for 1099 hourly opportunity.  We are proud to be an EEO/AA Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity, confirm US Citizenship, and complete the required employment eligibility verification upon hire.