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Network Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

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 ...

ZTI Solutions, LLC

Penetration Test Lead

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

Plan and scope 15-30 penetration testing engagements annually. * Execute network penetration tests identifying exploitable vulnerabilities. * Conduct web application security assessments (OWASP Top ...

Koniag, Inc.

Penetration Testing Lead

Warrenton, VA · On-site

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

kgs

Penetration Testing Lead

Atlantic City, NJ

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

kgs

Penetration Testing Lead

Atlantic City, NJ

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

Unisity, LLC

Penetration Tester

Annapolis Junction, MD

$210K - $220K/yr

Extensive experience developing/implementing integrated security services management processes, such as assessing and auditing network penetration testing, anti-virus planning assistance, risk ...

Unisity, LLC

$210K - $220K/yr

Extensive experience developing/implementing integrated security services management processes, such as assessing and auditing network penetration testing, anti-virus planning assistance, risk ...

Prodigy One, LLC

Extensive experience developing/implementing integrated security services management processes, such as assessing and auditing network penetration testing, antivirus planning assistance, risk ...

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How much do network penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 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 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.

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 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.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Network penetration testers perform manual and creative assessments of security systems that AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist in automating vulnerability scanning and analysis, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results, developing strategies, and adapting to new threats. Therefore, pentesters are unlikely to be completely replaced by AI in the near future, but their roles may evolve with technological advancements.
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Network Penetration Testing jobs near you
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

Peraton

Arlington, VA • On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 203 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities
Peraton is seeking an experienced Cyber Penetration Tester to become part of Peratons' Federal Strategic Cyber programs.
Location: Northern VA; Hybrid - flex as long as person can come on-site as/when needed.
In this role, you will:
  • Support the Red Cell Team by performing and leading penetration tests to assess the security of customer systems.
  • Identify vulnerabilities and develop recommended remediations to satisfy mandated NIST 800-53 security controls.
  • Report and demonstrate findings to system owners and engineers.
  • Maintain Red Cell infrastructure.
  • Develop or modify tools to automate discovery or exploitation.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science and 5 years of relevant experience in Cyber/IT, or a Master's of Science and 3 years of relevant experience in Cyber/IT. In lieu of a degree, 4 years of additional IT security or penetration testing experience may be considered.
  • Minimum of 2 years with penetration testing experience.
  • Possess one of the following certifications, OR be able to obtain before start date:
    • CCNA Cyber Ops, CCNA-Security, CEH, CFR, Cloud+, CySA+, GCIA, GCIH, GICSP, SCYBER, Security+ CE, SSCP
  • Demonstrated experience with Kali Linux.
  • Demonstrated penetration testing tools experience with Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit, etc.
  • Demonstrated ability in evaluating vulnerabilities, performing root cause analysis, and reporting findings utilizing assessment methodologies such as NIST SP 800-115, Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES), Information Systems Security Assessment Framework (ISSAF), OWASP Web Security 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 have the ability to obtain a final Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred:
  • Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance.
  • One of the following certifications or an alternate, verifiable certification demonstrating IT security competence:
    • CompTIA CASP+
    • ISC2 Certified Information Security Professional (CISSP)
    • ISC2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
    • ISC2 Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP)
  • One of the following certifications or an alternate, verifiable certification demonstrating practical penetration testing competence:
    • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
    • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
    • 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 Security Red Team Ops II
  • Advanced understanding of the following:
    • NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF) and the Assessment and Authorization (A&A) process.
    • Security principles such as CIA, IAAAA, access control models, risk management, etc.
    • Networking principles and technologies such as IP routing, TCP/UDP, VPNs, firewalls, NAT, etc.
    • Common network protocols such as SSH, FTP, SMTP, SMB, HTTP, etc.
    • Operating system principles such as process management, device management, user management, file systems, etc.
    • Data processing principles such as encoding, hashing, encryption, etc.
    • Scripting and programming languages such as Bash, Python, PowerShell, JavaScript, etc.
    • Common application vulnerabilities and exploits such as outdated components,
    • permissions misconfigurations, lack of input validation, logging/monitoring failures, etc.
    • Common web application vulnerabilities and exploits such as XSS, SQLi, LFI, file uploads, broken authentication mechanisms, etc.
    • Active Directory (AD) enumeration and attacks such as kerberoasting, AS-REP roasting, abusing misconfigured privileges, crafting golden tickets, etc.
    • Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and navigating IT environments implementing multifactor authentication.
    • Cloud technologies and platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), etc.

Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$86,000 - $138,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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