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Graduate Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Packetlabs

WI · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

OT Security Penetration Tester (Texas/Florida) Packetlabs is a cybersecurity consulting firm ... A graduate of an Information Security or Computer Science degree program * Professional ...

TNBR Careers

Adjunct Faculty-CITC

Harriman, TN · On-site

CITC 2356 - Penetration Testing and Network Defense * INFS 1010 - Computer Applications CITC ... graduate semester hours in Computer Science from an accredited institution. Must be state of ...

Tetra Tech

Graduate Civil/ Geotechnical Engineer

Midland, TX · On-site

$81K - $101K/yr

Tetra Tech is adding a Graduate Civil/ Geotechnical Engineer to our Geotechnical team based in ... test pits, cone penetration testing, hand augers, and other methods. * Prepare geotechnical ...

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Graduate Penetration Tester information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do graduate penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate 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 is a graduate penetration tester?

Graduate penetration testers are entry-level cybersecurity professionals who assess the security of computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating cyberattacks. They identify vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit, helping organizations strengthen their defenses. Typically, graduate penetration testers have recently completed a relevant degree or training and work under the supervision of experienced testers to develop their skills. Their work often involves conducting tests, preparing reports, and recommending security improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate penetration tester?

To thrive as a Graduate Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of network security, operating systems, and vulnerability assessment, typically backed by a computer science degree or related qualification. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and knowledge of industry certifications such as OSCP or CEH is highly advantageous. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities are crucial for identifying security weaknesses, effectively reporting findings, and helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

What are some common challenges faced by graduate penetration testers during their first year on the job?

Graduate Penetration Testers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing security technologies and learning to effectively document and communicate their findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. They must also develop strong time management skills to balance multiple assessments or projects at once and become familiar with a wide range of systems and environments. Working closely with experienced team members and participating in debrief meetings helps new testers quickly build their technical and soft skills.

What is the difference between Graduate Penetration Tester vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectGraduate Penetration TesterCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles)
Work EnvironmentHands-on security testing, simulated attacksMonitoring security systems, incident response
Industry UsageSecurity firms, consulting, internal security teamsOrganizations' security operations centers (SOCs)

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Graduate Penetration Tester specializes in identifying vulnerabilities through simulated attacks, requiring skills in ethical hacking. A Cybersecurity Analyst monitors and responds to security threats, focusing on defense and incident management. Both roles often share certifications like Security+ but differ in daily tasks and work environment.

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What job categories do people searching Graduate Penetration Tester jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Penetration Tester jobs are:

Graduate Penetration Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester (Skill Level 3)

Strategic Analytix

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

About Strategic Analytix
Strategic Analytix (SA) is an IT engineering and management consulting firm focuses on mission critical services and solutions to the Federal Government including the Department of Defense (DOD), the Intelligence Community (IC) and Civilian Healthcare agencies. With a reputation for innovation and development, Strategic Analytix is a trusted partner adopting unique skills and experiences. We are dedicated to our clients to deliver unparallel services and work diligently to serve our customers' missions.
Our talented team of industry experts provide full life cycle development and mission support with a focus in areas such as cybersecurity, systems engineering, programmatic and acquisition support. Our specialists hold numerous credentials including Top Secret/SCI security clearances, post graduate degrees, and professionals certifications that provides value added solutions. Strategic Analytix is a privately held minority owned, small-business headquarter in Fulton, MD just outside of Baltimore and Washington D.C.
About the role
Strategic Analytix is looking for a skilled Penetration Tester who will serve as the Subject Matter expert providing testing expertise of the Risk Management Framework. The Penetration Tester will direct and/or participate in the testing phase of security controls assessments using specialized knowledge of network protocols, operating systems, architectures, equipment, services, and standards.
What you'll do
Penetration Tester Requirements
  • Perform vulnerability and penetration testing using a wide variety of tools.
  • Research and evaluate emerging technologies relevant to information systems security; interpret agency specific and federal security regulations.
  • Perform both network and application-level testing using established testing protocols and methods.

Qualifications
  • Clearance Level
    • TS/SCI level clearance with a Full Scope Polygraph.

Skill Level 3:
Experience:
  • Eight (8) experience of related work experience as a Penetration Tester performing both network and application-level testing using established test protocols and methods.

Education:
  • A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Information Technology Engineering. In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, four (4) additional years of Penetration Testing experience maybe substituted.

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