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In Penetration Testing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... in structured penetration testing reports. • Collaborates with system owners, ISSOs, and cybersecurity engineers to deconflict testing activity and support timely remediation planning. • Assists ...

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

If you possess a strong background in penetration testing and a passion for cybersecurity, we encourage you to apply for this pivotal role. This position is set to be supported in a hybrid work ...

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

This candidate is expected to have hands on penetration testing experience. In addition to technical skills, the candidate should be a self-starter who doesn't always need to be provided direction.

This candidate is expected to have hands on penetration testing experience. In addition to technical skills, the candidate should be a self-starter who doesn't always need to be provided direction.

Lead penetration testing engagements * Develop attack strategies * Review Rules of Engagement ... Presentation slides Technical Expertise Demonstrated expertise in: * Offensive Security * Threat ...

Lead penetration testing engagements * Develop attack strategies * Review Rules of Engagement ... Presentation slides Technical Expertise Demonstrated expertise in: * Offensive Security * Threat ...

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The Penetration Testing Lead will analyze vulnerabilities, identify gaps in IT security policies and configurations, and deliver actionable recommendations to reduce organizational cyber risk. This ...

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In Penetration Testing information

What jobs can I get with a security+ certification?

A Security+ certification qualifies you for roles such as security analyst, cybersecurity technician, or network security administrator. These positions involve implementing security measures, monitoring networks, and responding to security incidents, often requiring knowledge of security tools and protocols.

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

To thrive as a Penetration Tester, you need a deep understanding of network protocols, operating systems, security vulnerabilities, and commonly hold certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Kali Linux is typically required to conduct effective assessments. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for identifying security weaknesses, delivering actionable recommendations, and helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity defenses.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

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 certain tasks like vulnerability scanning, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results and developing effective security strategies.

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

In penetration testing, earning $500,000 annually is possible for highly experienced professionals working in senior roles, consulting, or managing large security teams. Achieving this income typically requires advanced certifications, specialized skills, and extensive industry experience, often in high-demand sectors or with consulting firms. Most penetration testers earn between $70,000 and $150,000 per year, with top-tier experts reaching higher salaries through freelance work or leadership positions.

What is penetration testing?

Penetration testing, often called 'pen testing,' is a simulated cyberattack performed to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in an organization's computer systems, networks, or applications. The goal is to uncover security weaknesses that malicious hackers could exploit and to help organizations strengthen their defenses. Pen testers use various tools and techniques to mimic real-world attacks, providing valuable insights and recommendations for improving overall security. Regular penetration testing is essential for maintaining a robust cybersecurity posture and complying with industry regulations.

What is the difference between In Penetration Testing vs Vulnerability Assessment?

AspectIn Penetration TestingVulnerability Assessment
PurposeSimulates cyberattacks to identify exploitable vulnerabilitiesIdentifies and reports security weaknesses without exploiting them
DepthIn-depth, targeted testing with active exploitationBroad, automated or manual scanning for vulnerabilities
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENOSCP, CEH, CISSP (common but less focused)
Work EnvironmentEngages in simulated attacks, often in controlled environmentsUses scanning tools, reports vulnerabilities

While both roles focus on identifying security issues, In Penetration Testing involves actively exploiting vulnerabilities to assess security defenses, whereas Vulnerability Assessment primarily identifies weaknesses without exploitation. Penetration testers provide deeper insights into potential attack vectors, making their work more targeted and detailed.

What are some common challenges faced by penetration testers during client engagements?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes for assessments, incomplete or outdated documentation about client systems, and varying levels of cooperation from internal teams. Navigating complex network architectures and adapting to unique security configurations can also be demanding. Effective communication is essential, as testers must clearly explain findings and remediation steps to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Is penetration testing a good career?

Penetration testing is a valuable cybersecurity role focused on identifying vulnerabilities in systems and networks. It requires technical skills, knowledge of security tools, and often certifications like OSCP or CEH. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities for continuous learning.
What job categories do people searching In Penetration Testing jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for In Penetration Testing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for In Penetration Testing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most In Penetration Testing job openings:
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

ECS

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Everforth ECS is seeking a Penetration Tester to work in the National Capital Region covering the Pentagon, Falls Church, and Fairfax.
Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.
The War Data Platform (WDP) is a key initiative within the U.S. Department of War's (DoW) AI-First strategy introduced in early 2026. The WDP separates business and financial data from operational warfighting data, aiming to accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) on the battlefield. The WDP extends to Unclassified, Secret, and Top Secret environments, and supports collaboration between Combatant Commands, Joint Staff directorates, Senior Executive Service leaders, and operational analysts.
The Penetration Tester executes structured offensive security assessments across WDP's classified and unclassified environments under senior testing leadership, validating the security posture of mission-critical network infrastructure, web applications, cloud components, and operational data platform services spanning NIPRNet, SIPRNet, and JWICS. This role directly supports WDP's Risk Management Framework compliance obligations, Authorization to Operate activities, and continuous monitoring requirements by delivering technically rigorous, evidence-based findings that enable timely remediation and strengthen the platform's defense-in-depth posture.
• Executes offensive security assessments supporting Department of War information systems across unclassified and classified environments under the direction of senior testing leadership.
• Conducts network and web application penetration testing activities to identify exploitable vulnerabilities, insecure configurations, and attack paths that bypass automated security controls.
• Performs reconnaissance, enumeration, exploitation, and post-exploitation activities using approved tools and techniques while adhering to established rules of engagement and operational safety constraints.
• Executes testing against operating systems, databases, web services, APIs, and cloud-hosted components to validate security control effectiveness and defense-in-depth posture.
• Documents technical findings including exploitation steps, evidence artifacts, and impact analysis in structured penetration testing reports.
• Collaborates with system owners, ISSOs, and cybersecurity engineers to deconflict testing activity and support timely remediation planning.
• Assists with red team activities by executing assigned attack scenarios and validating detection and response capabilities.
• Supports remediation verification through retesting of previously identified vulnerabilities to confirm corrective action effectiveness.
• Maintains detailed testing notes, screenshots, logs, and artifacts supporting Risk Management Framework assessment activities and authorization documentation.
• Contributes to continuous improvement of testing methodologies, toolkits, and playbooks while reinforcing program values of professionalism, discipline, accountability, and proactive cyber defense in support of mission assurance.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Current Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret (TS) security clearance.
• 3-10 years of experience in penetration testing, offensive security, vulnerability assessment, or a closely related cybersecurity discipline, with demonstrated hands-on experience conducting structured penetration testing engagements across network, web application, and cloud environments in federal, DoW, or enterprise settings.
• IAM Level I certification from an approved credential, including CompTIA Security+ CE, ISC² CAP, ISC² SSCP, or GIAC GSLC.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, with a proven ability to weigh the relative costs and benefits of potential actions and identify the most appropriate solution.
• Highly developed interpersonal and oral/written communication skills, with the ability to effectively and professionally interact with a diverse set of stakeholders (from peers to end-users to executive management).