1

Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester Jobs

Senior Red Cyber Operator

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$144K - $260K/yr

... GIAC) Exploit Researcher & Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN), GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN), and/or GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAP). * Expertise in antivirus evasion, EDR evasion ...

Push the boundaries of penetration testing innovation through research and development of novel ... GXPN (GIAC Exploit Programmer) * CRTO (Certified Red Team Operator) Additional Considerations:

Showing results 41-60

Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester information

See salary details

$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do giac exploit researcher and advanced penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for giac exploit researcher and advanced 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 some common challenges faced by a GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester during client engagements?

GIAC Exploit Researchers and Advanced Penetration Testers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex network architectures, dealing with limited access or information during black-box assessments, and ensuring that exploit activities do not disrupt critical client systems. Additionally, staying updated on the latest vulnerabilities and tools while adhering to strict ethical and legal guidelines can be demanding. Effective communication with clients to explain technical findings in an accessible way is also crucial for successful engagements.

Is a Giac Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester a good career?

A Giac Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester is a specialized cybersecurity role focused on identifying vulnerabilities and testing security systems. It offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for continuous learning with skills in scripting, tools like Metasploit, and certifications such as OSCP or GPEN. The career typically requires ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards.

What is a GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester?

GIAC Exploit Researchers and Advanced Penetration Testers are cybersecurity professionals who specialize in identifying, developing, and testing security vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. They hold the GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN) certification, which demonstrates advanced skills in exploit development, penetration testing, and vulnerability assessment. These experts use their knowledge to simulate attacks, assess organizational defenses, and recommend improvements to enhance security. Their work is critical for helping organizations stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensuring that security measures are effective.

What is the difference between Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester And vs Vulnerability Analyst?

AspectGiac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration TesterVulnerability Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, GPEN, CEHOSCP, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, exploit development, penetration testing projectsVulnerability assessment, reporting, risk analysis
Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, government agencies, large enterprisesSecurity teams, consulting firms, IT departments

Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester focuses on active exploitation, penetration testing, and exploit development, requiring advanced technical skills. In contrast, Vulnerability Analysts primarily identify and report security weaknesses, emphasizing analysis and documentation. Both roles are vital in cybersecurity but differ in their approach and responsibilities.

What is the best certification for penetration testing?

For a Giac Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester, the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is highly regarded for practical penetration testing skills. Other valuable certifications include the GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) and Offensive Security Certified Expert (OSCE), which demonstrate advanced knowledge and technical proficiency in security assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester?

To thrive as a GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester, you need expertise in cybersecurity principles, vulnerability assessment, and exploit development, often backed by a GIAC certification and a strong technical background. Familiarity with penetration testing tools (such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Kali Linux), scripting languages, and security frameworks is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for identifying security weaknesses, responsibly disclosing vulnerabilities, and helping organizations strengthen their defenses against real-world threats.
More about Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester jobs? The most popular types of Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester jobs are:
Infographic showing various Giac Exploit Researcher And Advanced Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior Red Team Cyber Operator

Oak Grove Technologies LLC

Fort Belvoir, VA

$113K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

Oak Grove Technologies, LLC, a dynamic and fast-growing federal contractor, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Red Cyber Operator to support advanced Red Cyber operations through the execution of red team assessments, offensive cyber operations, and penetration testing.  


Oak Grove Technologies is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business based in Raleigh, NC, with a Test and Training Center located near Fort Bragg and Camp Mackall. With over 20 years of expertise in training, consulting, technology, and operational support, the company provides services to the military, government, and law enforcement. Committed to excellence, innovation, and national security, Oak Grove Technologies fulfills federal defense contracts and actively supports veterans through sponsorships and events. Driven by its mission-focused approach, the company seeks top talent to develop impactful solutions. 

Oak Grove Technologies offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. 

Requirements

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Cyber Red Team Assessments, Penetration Testing, Offensive Cyber Operations.
  • Performing penetration testing / red team operations to help validate the security of our nation's most critical systems.
  • Sharing your expertise and insight to direct the activities of mid-level operators to guide the team in accomplishing their mission objectives.
  • Antivirus evasion, EDR evasion, offensive infrastructure, phishing and social engineering.
  • Leveraging your expertise with tools like Cobalt Strike to discover vulnerabilities and exploit them to achieve mission objectives.
  • Quickly crafting new scripts and capabilities on-the-fly during operations to ensure you have the capabilities you need for mission success.
  • Working hand-in-hand with our expert development team to ensure design and development of long-term capabilities to enable your mission success.

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

  • 5+ years Offensive Cyber experience, DoD Cyber Red Team Experience, or corporate Red Team experience.
  • Expertise in antivirus evasion, EDR evasion, and/or penetration testing.
  • Red Team Apprentice Course (RTAC), Red Team Journeyman Course (RTJC), Certified Red Team Operator (CRTO) certification, Rogue Ops- Red Team 1 (ROPS), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Global Information Assurance Certification, (GIAC) Exploit Researcher & Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN), GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN), and/or GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAP).

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

  • U.S. Citizenship and an active Top Secret SCI security clearance is required for this position.  
  • Must pass the DCART Senior Operator Aptitude Test using Cobalt Strike before joining DCART as an Operator.
  • Experience in conducting red team assessments, offensive cyber operations, or penetration testing and be prepared to direct the activities of mid-level operators.
  • Mid-Level Operators: 1 year of experience conducting red team assessments, offensive cyber operations, or penetration testing, with 3+ years desired.
  • Senior Level Operators: 3+ years' experience in conducting red team assessments, offensive cyber operations, or penetration testing and ability to direct the activities of mid-level operators, with 5+ years desired.
  • Must hold an IAT Level III certification as defined and described in DoDD 8570.01, 8570.01-M, 8140.01-03, and as amended.
  • Must be capable of meeting apprentice operator requirements in the DCART Operator Training Program within the prescribed timelines, as outlined in the DCART Handbook. Red Cyber Operators are expected to have experience as operators conducting cyber red team assessments, offensive cyber operations, or significant penetration testing experience.
  • Willingness and ability to travel 15% (CONUS/OCONUS)

Security Clearance Requirements: 

U.S. Citizenship and an active Top Secret SCI security clearance is required for this position. 


Compensation and Benefits: 

Competitive Pay, PTO, Health Benefits.


If you are a highly motivated Senior Red Cyber Operator and ready to apply your expertise in a high-impact role, we encourage you to join our mission.  


Oak Grove Technologies is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Oak Grove Technologies, LLC participates in E-Verify to determine an individual's identity and employment eligibility to work in the United States. E-Verify is a service of DHS and SSA.