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Graduate Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RSM

Offensive Security - Penetration Tester

Chicago, IL · On-site

Lead and deliver offensive security and penetration testing engagements across multiple industries ... S. college / university graduate possessing 1-2 years of progressive and relevant work experience ...

New

RSM

Offensive Security - Penetration Tester

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Lead and deliver offensive security and penetration testing engagements across multiple industries ... S. college / university graduate possessing 1-2 years of progressive and relevant work experience ...

New

RSM

Offensive Security - Penetration Tester

Tampa, FL · On-site

Lead and deliver offensive security and penetration testing engagements across multiple industries ... S. college / university graduate possessing 1-2 years of progressive and relevant work experience ...

New

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 ...

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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 Jun 12, 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 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.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Graduate penetration testers typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, with senior or specialized roles potentially reaching higher salaries. Earning $500,000 a year usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and roles in management or consulting, which are beyond entry-level positions. High salaries in cybersecurity are often associated with seniority, expertise, and leadership responsibilities.

Can I make $200 a year in cyber security?

A graduate penetration tester can earn significantly more than $200 annually, as entry-level salaries typically start in the tens of thousands of dollars and increase with experience, certifications, and skills in tools like Kali Linux and Metasploit. Cybersecurity roles generally offer competitive pay, making $200 per year unrealistic for this profession.

What are graduate penetration testers?

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, and why are they important?

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.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Graduate penetration testers perform manual security assessments that require critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of complex systems, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist in automating repetitive tasks and identifying vulnerabilities, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results and developing effective security strategies.

Is 25 too late for cyber security?

For a graduate penetration tester, starting a career in cybersecurity at 25 is not too late. Many professionals enter the field after completing relevant education or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), and skills can be developed through self-study, training, and hands-on experience regardless of age.

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.

More about Graduate Penetration Tester jobs
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 38% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 59% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Penetration Tester (Skill Level 3)

Penetration Tester (Skill Level 3)

Strategic Analytix

Fort George G Meade, MD

Other

Posted 3 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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