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Graduate Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Code Review Software/Application Penetration Testing Architecture Security Analysis and Threat ... Top graduate in Computer Science, Engineering, Math or related field Compensation & Work Location:

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Graduate Penetration Tester information

See salary details

$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do graduate penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 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.

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.

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
Infographic showing various Graduate Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Full Time, and 91% Part Time. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Graduate Civil/ Geotechnical Engineer

Graduate Civil/ Geotechnical Engineer

Tetra Tech

Midland, TX • On-site

$81K - $101K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding a Graduate Civil/ Geotechnical Engineer to our Geotechnical team based in Midland, TX.

Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Position Summary:

The Graduate Civil/Geotechnical Engineer will provide support for various geotechnical and engineering design for commercial and industrial projects in the Energy and Renewable Energy Projects in Texas.  Primary responsibilities include to assist with geotechnical field investigations, oversight of geotechnical testing, data review and report preparation as required. Additional responsibilities could also include assistance with review of construction monitoring and testing and associated regulatory compliance.   


Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are considered essential to the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions:

  • Lead and coordinate geotechnical fieldwork and supervise subcontractors in the field during project field work for geotechnical and civil engineering design, including during site inspections, test borings, rock coring, test pits, cone penetration testing, hand augers, and other methods.
  • Prepare geotechnical engineering design and recommendations for shallow and deep foundations, earth retaining structures , embankments, berms, and site development.
  • Review, analyze and perform geotechnical laboratory testing and support laboratory operations.
  • Oversight of geotechnical related construction monitoring and testing.
  • Develop work plans, technical reports and proposals for  geotechnical and foundation  assessment projects.
  • Review construction monitoring and testing results and perform QA/QC assessments.
  • Prepare daily reports and assist with proposals for various types of construction materials testing projects.
  • Prepare Health and Safety Plans (HASP) and excavation plans, submit 811 one calls, and perform other office tasks supporting projects.
  • Other duties may be assigned. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Minimum bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical or Geological Engineering from a four-year ABET accredited engineering program required.  A master's degree is a plus.
  • 0-4 years of related experience to demonstrate candidates' ability to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. 
  • Qualified candidates must have passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam and be eligible to  apply for the Principles and Practices of Engineering Exam within four years.
  • Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Geo Master, PLAXIS 3D, LPile, GeoSlope, Seep/Slope, or similar modeling tools is a plus; training will be provided as needed. 
  • Working knowledge in AutoCAD and AutoCAD Civil 3D software is a plus.
  • Candidate must demonstrate a positive, proactive attitude; highly motivated, customer-focused, and a strong team player with the ability to work independently.
  • Candidate must be able to manage and lead project tasks, supported by strong client interaction and organizational skills.
  • Candidate must be able and available for travel via land and/or air and possess a valid drivers' license in good standing. 

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  Incumbent must possess able and available to travel via land and/or air and possess a valid driver's license in good standing.  The candidate must be able to walk across rough or uneven surfaces that may be muddy and rutted in inclement weather.  The candidate must be able to hear see and hear warning signals at facilities or from heavy machinery that is in motion. Some heavy lifting may be required, including equipment lifting. 

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:
Work will be split between the Texas offices and field for inspections and oversight (typ. est. 60% field, 40% office for first year).  Projects and field work will primarily be in West, Central, and North Texas and southeast New Mexico and occasional overnight travel will be required.  Field work will be primarily outdoors, exposed to varying weather conditions, while wearing fire-retardant clothing (FRC).   The preferred candidate will be located in Midland, Texas. 

Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
    Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
    Merit-based financial rewards.
    Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
    Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
    Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.  

About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
 

Additional Information
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