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Junior Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Conduct testing and analysis to identify vulnerabilities and potential threat vectors in systems ... Junior Penetration Tester (EJPT), GIAC Global Information Assurance Penetration Tester (GPEN), or ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Conduct testing and analysis to identify vulnerabilities and potential threat vectors in systems ... Junior Penetration Tester (EJPT), GIAC Global Information Assurance Penetration Tester (GPEN), or ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

... testing methodologies and advanced exploit development, focusing on identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities across a wide range of technologies. As a Junior Product and Hardware Security ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

... testing methodologies and advanced exploit development, focusing on identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities across a wide range of technologies. As a Junior Product and Hardware Security ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

... testing methodologies and advanced exploit development, focusing on identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities across a wide range of technologies. As a Junior Product and Hardware Security ...

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Junior Penetration Testing information

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How much do junior penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 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.
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Herndon, VA • On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description


Remote Work:
No
Job Number:
R0233826
Location:
Herndon,VA,US
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Penetration Tester
The Opportunity:
Conduct testing and analysis to identify vulnerabilities and potential threat vectors in systems and networks, develop exploits, and engineer attack methodologies. Apply advanced advising skills, extensive technical expertise, and full industry knowledge. Develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Work without considerable direction, and mentor and supervise team members, as needed.
You Have:
  • 3+ years of experience with cyber penetration testing or developing risk and threat mitigation plans
  • 3+ years of experience operating in Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms
  • 3+ years of experience with computer attack methods and system exploitation techniques
  • 3+ years of experience leveraging adversarial tactics to conduct security testing
  • 3+ years of experience performing network security analysis, including software or traffic analysis
  • TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph
  • HS diploma or GED

Nice If You Have:
  • Experience manually auditing source code, including Java, Ruby, Python, JavaScript, Rust, or C, to find security issues
  • Knowledge of tools, tactics, and techniques targeting Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems and their ecosystems
  • Bachelor's degree in CS, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), HTB Certified Penetration Tester Specialist (CPTS), eLearn Security Junior Penetration Tester (EJPT), GIAC Global Information Assurance Penetration Tester (GPEN), or GIAC Cloud Penetration Tester Certification

Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; TS/SCI clearance with polygraph is required.
Compensation
At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.
Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $86,800.00 to $198,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Identity Statement
As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.
Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.
  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.
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About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914

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