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Network Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead penetration testing engagements * Develop attack strategies * Review Rules of Engagement ... Internal network assessments * External network assessments Technical Consulting Serve as ...

Lead penetration testing engagements * Develop attack strategies * Review Rules of Engagement ... Internal network assessments * External network assessments Technical Consulting Serve as ...

The Penetration Testing Lead will analyze vulnerabilities, identify gaps in IT security policies ... Certified Network Defense Architect (CNDA) * GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) * GIAC ...

Expertise in network penetration testing, including assessment of protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, DNS, VPN), firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems. * Hands-on experience with cloud security ...

The Penetration Testing Lead will analyze vulnerabilities, identify gaps in IT security policies ... Certified Network Defense Architect (CNDA) * GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) * GIAC ...

The Penetration Testing Lead will analyze vulnerabilities, identify gaps in IT security policies ... Certified Network Defense Architect (CNDA) * GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) * GIAC ...

Hack the Box Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) * TCM Security Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT) * GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN) * Zero Point ...

Hack the Box Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) * TCM Security Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT) * GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN) * Zero Point ...

Hack the Box Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) * TCM Security Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT) * GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN) * Zero Point ...

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Network Penetration Testing information

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$21K

$124.9K

$167K

How much do network penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for network penetration testing in the United States is $124,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Network Penetration Testing position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Network Penetration Testing, you need strong technical knowledge of network protocols, cybersecurity fundamentals, vulnerability assessment, and hands-on experience with operating systems, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Metasploit, Nmap, Wireshark, and relevant certifications such as CEH, OSCP, or CompTIA Security+ are typically expected. Excellent problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, clear communication, and the ability to work independently or in teams set standout professionals apart. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively identify vulnerabilities, communicate risks, and help organizations safeguard their digital infrastructure.

What is a Network Penetration Testing job?

A Network Penetration Testing job involves identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities in an organization's networks, systems, and applications to assess their security posture. Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, simulate cyberattacks to uncover weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. They use various tools and techniques to conduct reconnaissance, exploit vulnerabilities, and provide recommendations for improving security. Their work helps organizations strengthen cybersecurity defenses, comply with regulations, and protect sensitive data from potential threats.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Network penetration testers with extensive experience, advanced certifications like OSCP or CISSP, and specialized skills in tools such as Kali Linux can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level roles in cybersecurity often require a strong technical background, continuous learning, and sometimes management responsibilities, which contribute to higher salaries.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for someone in a Network Penetration Testing role?

Professionals in Network Penetration Testing often progress to more senior roles such as Senior Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, or Security Architect, depending on experience and additional certifications. There are also opportunities to specialize further—such as focusing on application security, red teaming, or threat intelligence—or to move into management positions overseeing security teams. Continuous learning and staying current with evolving cyber threats are key to advancing in this dynamic field. Many employers also offer support for professional development through training and certification reimbursement, enabling penetration testers to expand their expertise and take on greater responsibilities.

Is penetration testing a good career?

Network penetration testing is a valuable cybersecurity role focused on identifying vulnerabilities in systems and networks. It requires skills in scripting, 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 is a network penetration tester?

A network penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who simulates cyberattacks on computer networks to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. They use tools like scanners and exploit frameworks, often hold certifications such as OSCP or CEH, and work in environments that require strong analytical and technical skills.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Network penetration testers perform manual and creative assessments of security systems, which AI currently cannot fully replicate due to the need for critical thinking, adaptability, and understanding complex environments. While AI tools can assist in automating certain tasks like vulnerability scanning, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results and developing effective security strategies.
More about Network Penetration Testing jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Penetration Testing jobs? The most popular types of Network Penetration Testing jobs are:
What states have the most Network Penetration Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Network Penetration Testing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Network Penetration Testing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Network Penetration Testing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Network Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,948 per year, or $60.1 per hour.
Penetration Testing Engineer- VP

Penetration Testing Engineer- VP

State Street Corporation

Quincy, MA • On-site

$120K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking a Senior Penetration Testing Engineer to join State Street's Penetration Testing Team, reporting to the Penetration Testing Team Manager. This role sits within the Threat Intelligence and Assurance organization and is a deeply technical engineering position with strong hands-on expectations.
You will serve as a subject matter expert in application penetration testing, executing detailed assessments and contributing to the design and oversight of network penetration testing performed in partnership with third-party providers. The focus of this role is on building and applying rigorous, repeatable testing approaches that evaluate security control effectiveness and real-world exploitability across complex systems.
Operating in a highly regulated banking environment, you will ensure testing outputs are technically sound, evidence-based, and aligned to risk and audit expectations. You will work closely with engineering and infrastructure teams to analyze root causes, validate fixes, and drive improvements in secure system design and implementation.
What you will be responsible for
As a Senior Penetration Testing Engineer, you will:
• Design and manage third-party network penetration tests, including scoping, vendor selection, rules of engagement, quality assurance, and validation of results.
• Lead end-to-end application penetration testing across internal and third-party providers (web, API), including scoping, execution, exploitation, and retesting.
• Perform advanced testing across authn/authz, business logic, injection, API abuse, crypto misuse, and access control weaknesses.
• Establish and enforce testing standards for both internal teams and external vendors to ensure consistency, depth, and regulatory defensibility.
• Deliver high-quality, regulator-ready reporting with clear exploitability, risk context, and actionable remediation guidance.
• Lead the use of AI/LLM-enabled testing techniques and conduct assurance testing of enterprise AI/LLM deployments (e.g., prompt injection, model abuse, data exposure risks).
• Partner with engineering and infrastructure teams to validate remediation, reduce recurrence, and strengthen secure development and deployment practices.
What we value
These skills will help you succeed in this role
• Technical depth with ownership, balancing hands-on expertise with accountability for end-to-end outcomes across internal and external testing.
• Strong judgment and vendor oversight, ensuring third-party testing meets enterprise standards and delivers meaningful assurance.
• Practical, risk-focused mindset, prioritizing real-world exploitability and business impact.
• Clear, concise communication, producing executive-ready outputs and actionable technical guidance.
• Collaboration and partnership, working closely with engineering, infrastructure, and risk stakeholders.
• Innovation and adaptability, particularly in applying AI/LLM techniques to offensive security challenges.
• Continuous improvement, enhancing methodologies, playbooks, and testing consistency across internal and third-party efforts
Education & Preferred Qualifications
• 5+ years in penetration testing with strong experience across both application and network testing in high-security/highly regulated environments.
• Experience managing third-party penetration testing vendors, including quality validation and outcome assurance.
• Deep expertise in application penetration testing (web, APIs, mobile) and solid understanding of enterprise network attack paths.
• Strong knowledge of modern architectures (cloud-native, microservices, identity platforms, CI/CD pipelines).
• Ability to translate technical findings into actionable, risk-based remediation guidance and influence stakeholders.
• Nice to have: experience using AI/LLM tools to perform network and application penetration testing and configuration/security reviews.
• Education/Certifications (desired, not mandatory): BS/MS in relevant field; OSCP/OSEP/OSWE, GPEN/GXPN, GWAPT, PNPT, GCPN, or similar.
Additional requirements
Hybrid Schedule based on location
Salary Range:
$120,000 - $202,500 Annual
The range quoted above applies to the role in the primary location specified. If the candidate would ultimately work outside of the primary location above, the applicable range could differ.
Employees are eligible to participate in State Street's comprehensive benefits program, which includes: our retirement savings plan (401K) with company match; insurance coverage including basic life, medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, and other optional additional coverages; paid-time off including vacation, sick leave, short term disability, and family care responsibilities; access to our Employee Assistance Program; incentive compensation including eligibility for annual performance-based awards (excluding certain sales roles subject to sales incentive plans); and, eligibility for certain tax advantaged savings plans.
For a full overview, visit https://hrportal.ehr.com/statestreet/Home.
About State Street
Across the globe, institutional investors rely on us to help them manage risk, respond to challenges, and drive performance and profitability. We keep our clients at the heart of everything we do, and smart, engaged employees are essential to our continued success.
We are committed to fostering an environment where every employee feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. As an essential partner in our shared success, you'll benefit from inclusive development opportunities, flexible work-life support, paid volunteer days, and vibrant employee networks that keep you connected to what matters most. Join us in shaping the future.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we consider all qualified applicants for all positions without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, marital status, domestic partnership or civil union status, familial status, military and veteran status, and other characteristics protected by applicable law.
Discover more information on jobs at StateStreet.com/careers
Read our CEO Statement
Job Application Disclosure:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

State Street logo

About State Street

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State Street is one of the largest custodian banks, asset managers and asset intelligence companies in the world. From technology to product innovation, we're making our mark on the financial services industry. For more than two centuries, we've been helping our clients safeguard and steward the investments of millions of people. We provide investment servicing, data & analytics, investment research & trading and investment management to institutional clients.

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1792

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