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Junior Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$86K - $138K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$95K - $112K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

Gunnison

Junior Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$68K - $73K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Salary range: $68,000 - $73,000/year The Junior Penetration Tester ... Conduct security testing of IT assets, web applications, infrastructure assets and technologies ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester / Active Secret

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester / Active Secret

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester / Active Secret

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

... Testing Guide (WTG), etc. * Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must ...

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How much do junior penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior penetration testing in the United States is $71,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Junior Penetration Testing vs Security Analyst?

AspectJunior Penetration TestingSecurity Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH (entry-level)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level)
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksMonitoring, incident response, policy development
Employer UsageCybersecurity firms, IT departmentsOrganizations, government agencies, corporations

Junior Penetration Testers focus on identifying vulnerabilities through simulated attacks, requiring technical certifications like OSCP or CEH. Security Analysts monitor security systems, analyze threats, and develop security policies, often holding certifications like Security+ or CISSP. While both roles are vital in cybersecurity, Junior Penetration Testers are more hands-on with testing, whereas Security Analysts focus on ongoing security monitoring and response.

What are some common challenges a Junior Penetration Tester might face during client engagements, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Penetration Testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to systems, incomplete documentation, or unclear testing scopes during client engagements. Communication is key—regularly clarifying objectives with clients and senior team members helps ensure the testing process stays on track. Additionally, adapting quickly to diverse IT environments and staying current with the latest security tools and techniques are essential. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues and leveraging collaborative team structures can greatly enhance learning and confidence in overcoming these hurdles.

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

To thrive as a Junior Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of networking, operating systems, cybersecurity fundamentals, and preferably a relevant degree or certification such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Kali Linux is typically required to identify and exploit vulnerabilities. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication help you convey technical findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are essential to effectively assess security risks and support organizations in strengthening their defenses against cyber threats.

What are Junior Penetration Testers?

Junior Penetration Testers are entry-level cybersecurity professionals who assist in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. They work under the guidance of experienced penetration testers to conduct security assessments, perform vulnerability scans, and document findings. Their main goal is to help organizations strengthen their security by simulating real-world attacks and providing recommendations for remediation. Junior Penetration Testers often use a variety of tools and follow industry best practices to ensure thorough testing. This role is crucial for organizations looking to protect sensitive data and maintain robust security defenses.
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Junior Penetration Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,799 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Junior Penetration Tester

Abricto Security, LLC

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Junior Penetration Tester


The Junior Penetration Tester is an entry-level technical role designed for individuals beginning their career in offensive security and penetration testing. This position is intended for candidates transitioning from related IT disciplines such as software development, systems administration, or network engineering, as well as students or recent graduates pursuing studies in Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, or related fields.
Under the guidance of senior consultants and team leadership, the Junior Penetration Tester supports security assessment activities, develops technical skills, and contributes to the delivery of high-quality security consulting services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist in conducting security assessments, penetration tests, and vulnerability evaluations across networks, applications, systems, and infrastructure
  • Support the identification, validation, and documentation of security vulnerabilities and risks
  • Produce clear, accurate, and actionable technical reports detailing findings, risks, and remediation recommendations
  • Participate in client communications, including project kick-off meetings and findings review sessions
  • Collaborate with senior team members to evaluate security implications related to system architecture, design, and infrastructure
  • Follow established methodologies, standards, and internal procedures for security testing engagements
  • Maintain documentation and project records to support engagement quality and consistency
  • Continue technical and professional development through hands-on learning, research, and training

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Foundational knowledge of networking, operating systems, applications, and security principles
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a technical consulting team
  • Relevant industry certifications or pursuit of certifications such as OSCP, OSCE, Security+, or similar credentials

Preferred Qualifications

  • Exposure to penetration testing tools, vulnerability assessment platforms, or cybersecurity labs
  • Prior experience participating in cybersecurity communities, competitions, or technical projects
  • Published technical research or security-related content