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Hacker Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Chicago, IL

$103K - $132K/yr

Manual Ethical Hacking is part of the Application Development Security Framework Program within Bank of America's Cyber Security Assurance Offensive Security group. The program provides services to ...

Manual Ethical Hacking is part of the Application Development Security Framework Program within Bank of America's Cyber Security Assurance Offensive Security group. The program provides services to ...

Health Hacker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

About Next|Health Next Health is a leader in the health optimization and longevity industry, dedicated to revolutionizing wellness through advanced medical solutions and cutting-edge technology. We ...

Enterprise Account Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$116K - $160K/yr

Our network of hackers brings diverse expertise to uncover hidden weaknesses, adapting swiftly to evolving threats, even against zero-day exploits. With unmatched scalability and adaptability, our ...

Java Angular

Chicago, IL · On-site

$54 - $69.75/hr

... github, hacker rank links etc if they have them * Working on Card Tech existing systems and services (high transaction applications). Will do enhancements and maintenance. * Full stack, mostly ...

Apply the latest cryptology techniques to protect digital transaction data against cyberattacks and information hacks. * Maintain client and server-side applications. * Optimize and secure blockchain ...

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Hacker information

What is a hacker?

A hacker is an individual who uses technical knowledge and computer skills to gain unauthorized access to systems or networks, often by bypassing security measures. Hackers can have various motivations, from curiosity and learning to malicious intent such as stealing data or causing harm. While the term 'hacker' is often associated with cybercriminals, it can also refer to ethical hackers who help organizations identify and fix security vulnerabilities. The cybersecurity industry distinguishes between 'white-hat' (ethical), 'black-hat' (malicious), and 'gray-hat' (mixed intent) hackers. Understanding these distinctions is important for recognizing the different roles hackers play in the digital world.

What is a hacker?

A hacker is an accomplished computer user who utilizes their technical skills to solve problems in computing. The term “hacker” has become associated with security hacking, which is the practice of using bugs or other types of technical attacks to circumvent computer security and break into computer systems. Not all hackers, however, break into systems for their own gain. White hat or ethical hackers use their skills to get around security in order to demonstrate problems in security to systems operators. The term “hacking” is also used outside of computer and IT contexts and refers to experimenting with new methods or ideas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hacker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hacker (ethical or cybersecurity specialist), you need a deep understanding of computer networks, programming languages, operating systems, and security protocols, often supported by relevant IT or cybersecurity certifications. Familiarity with tools such as Kali Linux, Metasploit, Wireshark, and vulnerability scanners is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and discretion are essential soft skills that set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively identify vulnerabilities, protect systems, and ensure organizational security in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

What are some common challenges ethical hackers face when conducting penetration tests for organizations?

Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes to complete thorough assessments, navigating complex and constantly evolving IT environments, and ensuring clear communication with stakeholders who may not be familiar with technical jargon. Additionally, they must carefully document their findings and work within legal and ethical boundaries to avoid disrupting business operations. Collaboration with IT teams is essential to ensure vulnerabilities are addressed effectively and recommendations are implemented.

What is the difference between Hacker vs Penetration Tester?

AspectHackerPenetration Tester
CredentialsMay have certifications like CEH, OSCP, but not alwaysOften holds certifications like CEH, OSCP, CISSP
Work EnvironmentCan be employed or freelance, sometimes in illegal activitiesLegally employed or contracted to test security
Industry UsageUsed broadly, including malicious and ethical contextsPrimarily in cybersecurity and IT security sectors

While both hackers and penetration testers possess technical skills to identify vulnerabilities, hackers may operate illegally or ethically, whereas penetration testers work within legal boundaries to improve security.

Do hackers get paid well?

Hackers, particularly ethical or cybersecurity professionals, can earn competitive salaries depending on experience, skills, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced security analysts or penetration testers often earn high wages, especially in specialized environments or with advanced tools and knowledge.

What do hackers do as a job?

Hackers employed as cybersecurity professionals, often called ethical hackers or penetration testers, analyze computer systems to identify vulnerabilities and improve security. They use tools like vulnerability scanners and follow industry standards, often holding certifications such as CEH or OSCP, to help organizations protect their data and infrastructure.

What jobs are there for hackers?

Hackers can pursue careers such as cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, security consultant, or ethical hacker. These roles involve identifying vulnerabilities, testing security systems, and protecting organizations from cyber threats, often requiring knowledge of tools like Kali Linux, programming skills, and relevant certifications such as CEH or CISSP.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Hacker jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Hacker job openings:

Infographic showing various Hacker job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Ethical Hacker- Web Security

Chicago, IL • On-site

InterSources Inc
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
InterSources Inc is an Award-Winning Global Software Consultancy that offers innovative solutions for Digital Transformations across various domains. The role of Ethical Hacker focuses on identifying vulnerabilities in the Opus application and its resources, using ethical hacking techniques to exploit them, and providing preventive countermeasures.
Responsibilities:
• Researching the Opus system, network structure and meeting with client's stakeholders to discuss the security system currently in place for Opus.
• Provide technical leadership and advice to team members on attack and penetration test engagements.
• Perform manual penetration tests of Opus infrastructure, networks, mobile application, website, APIs to Client and exploit vulnerabilities.
• Find open ports and implement corrective measures to prevent potential attacks.
• Evade intrusion prevention systems, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and honeypots to ensure they are effective and reinforced when necessary.
• Identify and fix sniffing networks, cracked wireless encryption, hijacked web servers, and hijacked web applications.
• Reviewing and rating the security network, creating suggestions for security upgrades and ensure patch installations are up to date.
• Identifying and recording security flaws and breaches.
• Prepare detailed reports with suggested exploitation techniques, flows and remediation guidance to fix the issue.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Proactively identify various attack surfaces of applications and resources.
• Use different ethical hacking techniques to identify and exploit vulnerabilities.
• Provide preventive countermeasures.
• Research the system and network structure.
• Meet with client's stakeholders to discuss the security system.
• Provide technical leadership and advice on attack and penetration test engagements.
• Perform manual penetration tests of infrastructure, networks, mobile applications, websites, and APIs.
• Find open ports and implement corrective measures.
• Evade intrusion prevention systems, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and honeypots.
• Identify and fix sniffing networks, cracked wireless encryption, hijacked web servers, and hijacked web applications.
• Review and rate the security network.
• Create suggestions for security upgrades and ensure patch installations are up to date.
• Identify and record security flaws and breaches.
• Prepare detailed reports with suggested exploitation techniques, flows, and remediation guidance.
Company:
InterSources Inc. solves operational problems where protection, performance, compliance, AI, and workforce capability must work together. Founded in 2007, the company is headquartered in Fremont, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

InterSources logo

About InterSources

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In 2007, Our journey began as pioneers in the realm of technology and security. Since then, InterSources Inc. has evolved into a trusted partner, leading the way in Cloud Security, Cybersecurity, PLG Consulting, Digital Transformation, and Professional Services. With a rich history of excellence and a forward-thinking approach, we continue to secure your digital future and drive innovation. Explore our legacy of success and discover the possibilities that lie ahead.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Fremont, CA, US

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