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Kali Linux Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Uses offensive security tools and techniques to identify, validate, and demonstrate exploitability, including Kali Linux toolchain, Nessus/Tenable, Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit, and BloodHound, and ...

Uses offensive security tools and techniques to identify, validate, and demonstrate exploitability, including Kali Linux toolchain, Nessus/Tenable, Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit, and BloodHound, and ...

Burp Suite Pro * Kali Linux * Metasploit Frameworks * Nexpose * ACAS * Cisco * Juniper * Avaya Medical, Dental, Vision, Unlimited Vacation, Sick Leave, Paid Federal Holidays, Education and ...

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How much do kali linux jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for kali linux in Illinois is $57.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.59 and $65.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Kali Linux?

A Kali Linux job typically involves cybersecurity roles such as penetration testing, ethical hacking, and security analysis. Professionals use Kali Linux, a specialized Linux distribution, for tasks like vulnerability assessment, digital forensics, and network security testing. These jobs often require expertise in tools like Metasploit, Nmap, and Wireshark. Common roles include ethical hacker, security analyst, and red team specialist.

What types of projects or assignments can a professional working with Kali Linux expect on the job?

Professionals specializing in Kali Linux often engage in a variety of cybersecurity projects, such as conducting vulnerability assessments, penetration tests, network security audits, and red team exercises. Daily responsibilities typically include using Kali Linux tools to emulate cyberattacks, discover system weaknesses, document findings, and recommend remediation strategies. Teamwork is essential, as these professionals frequently coordinate with IT departments, management, and sometimes even clients to ensure thorough testing and proper risk communication. This role offers opportunities to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge security technologies and can serve as a strong foundation for advanced careers in cybersecurity and ethical hacking.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Kali Linux position, and why are they important?

To excel in roles centered around Kali Linux, such as penetration tester or cybersecurity analyst, candidates need in-depth knowledge of cybersecurity principles, penetration testing methodologies, and familiarity with Linux operating systems, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with the Kali Linux distribution and its suite of security tools, along with certifications like OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) or CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help professionals document findings and collaborate with technical teams or clients. These competencies are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, effectively mitigating risks, and maintaining strong security postures for organizations.

What jobs use Kali Linux?

Jobs that use Kali Linux typically include cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, ethical hacker, security researcher, and network security engineer. These roles require knowledge of Linux, cybersecurity tools, and often involve vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and security auditing.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kali Linux jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Kali Linux jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Kali Linux jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Kali Linux jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Kali Linux job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,398 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Red Team Penetration Tester III (TS/SCI REQUIRED)

DirectViz Solutions, LLC

Virginia, IL • On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Plan, execute, and document sophisticated red team engagements and penetration tests.

  • Emulate advanced persistent threat (APT) behaviors to evaluate enterprise-level defenses.

  • Develop and utilize tools such as Metasploit, NMAP, Kali Linux, and Cobalt Strike.


Job description

DirectViz Solutions (DVS) is a dynamic and rapidly growing government contractor committed to delivering innovative IT solutions that address the mission-critical needs of our government clients. Through the expertise and dedication of our talented team, we provide cutting-edge technology services designed to achieve success and exceed expectations.

At DVS, we prioritize our employees as our greatest asset. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive medical benefits, a 401(k) match, generous PTO accrual, professional development reimbursement, corporate-funded technology certifications, and robust employee recognition and appreciation programs.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Red Team Penetration Tester III to join our cybersecurity team. This individual will be responsible for conducting advanced penetration tests, simulating real-world cyber threats, and identifying security weaknesses across various systems and environments. The ideal candidate will possess a strong offensive cybersecurity background, expert-level knowledge of threat actor tactics, and deep technical expertise in penetration testing tools and methodologies. ACTIVE TS/SCI IS REQUIRED

Key Responsibilities:
  • Plan, execute, and document sophisticated red team engagements and penetration tests.
  • Emulate advanced persistent threat (APT) behaviors to evaluate enterprise-level defenses.
  • Develop and utilize tools such as Metasploit, NMAP, Kali Linux, and Cobalt Strike.
  • Perform exploit development and scripting to mimic threat actor capabilities.
  • Identify gaps in existing security tools, processes, and defensive technologies.
  • Work with various operating systems including Linux, Windows, and macOS.
  • Utilize Active Directory to simulate lateral movement and privilege escalation scenarios.
  • Apply programming or scripting in at least two languages (e.g., Python, C++, Java, Rust, Assembly, C#).
  • Collaborate with Blue Teams and SOC personnel to provide findings and recommendations for remediation.
Required Qualifications:Education:

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Cyber Operations, Cyber Engineering, Information System, Information Technology, Computer, Electrical, or Electronics Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics with a concentration in Computer Science, or equivalent to above disciplines, OR an Associate's degree and 10 years of relevant experience.

Required Certification:

Baseline Certification:

  • CSSP Auditor.
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or Offensive Security Certified Expert (OSCE), or Offensive Security Exploitation Expert (OSEE), or Offensive Security Wireless Professional (OSWP) certification.
Experience:

Seven (7) years of full-time professional experience conducting penetration testing or offensive Cyber operations in the following areas:

  • Developing and utilizing penetration tools such as Metasploit, NMAP, Kali Linux, Cobalt Strike;
  • Mimicking threat behavior;
  • Utilizing various operating systems (examples include Linux, Windows, MAC OS, etc.);
  • Utilizing Active Directory;
  • Performing exploit development;
  • Identifying gaps in tools and development techniques;
  • Performing development with at least two scripting or programming languages (examples include python, C++, Java, Rust, Assembly, C#, etc.).
Clearance: TS/SCI

If you thrive on solving complex problems and building meaningful connections, we'd love to hear from you. Join our team and make an impact today!

Physical and Mental Qualifications:
  • Maintain focus and awareness throughout scheduled working hours.
  • Perform tasks requiring prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk, utilizing a computer, mouse, and keyboard.
  • Lift and move objects weighing up to 15 pounds as needed.
  • Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong command of the English language.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.
  • Quickly learn and retain routine tasks and processes.
  • Possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, business correspondence proficiency, and self-management capabilities.
  • Perform the essential functions of the role satisfactorily; reasonable accommodation will be provided for employees with disabilities upon request.
  • Accept and adapt to additional responsibilities or changes to assigned duties as determined by DirectViz Solutions (DVS).

DirectViz Solutions, LLC (DVS) is an equal opportunity employer who prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, , sex (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

DVS has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, threats, coercion, discrimination, and intimidation. Employees may file a complaint or exercise any right protected by Executive Order 11246, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Section 4212 of the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, or the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998.

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