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Network Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conduct application, network, and wireless penetration testing in accordance with approved methodologies and rules of engagement. * Identify security flaws in computing platforms, applications, and ...

The Penetration Tester is responsible for working as part of the Assessment Team to conduct and ... Conduct security audits, network penetration tests, and web application, API and cloud assessments.

The Penetration Tester is responsible for working as part of the Assessment Team to conduct and ... Conduct security audits, network penetration tests, and web application, API and cloud assessments.

... designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture * Experience performing network ... Penetration Testing (GPEN) Desired: * Demonstrated experience participating in public and private ...

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The Penetration Tester is responsible for working as part of the Assessment Team to conduct and ... Conduct security audits, network penetration tests, and web application, API and cloud assessments.

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos is seeking a Penetration Tester to support an enterprise IT program. We are looking for a ... designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture * Experience performing network ...

Leidos is seeking a Penetration Tester to support an enterprise IT program. We are looking for a ... designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture * Experience performing network ...

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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.
Lead Penetration Tester TS/SCI Polygraph

Lead Penetration Tester TS/SCI Polygraph

Leidos

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 442 rated business services


Job description

Lead Penetration Tester

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Lead Penetration Tester in our National Security Sector's (NSS) Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA). Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO), Mission Software, Analytical Methods and Modeling, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Cryptographic Key Management. At Leidos, we offer competitive benefits, including Paid Time Off, 11 paid Holidays, 401K with a 6% company match and immediate vesting, Flexible Schedules, Discounted Stock Purchase Plans, Technical Upskilling, Education and Training Support, Parental Paid Leave, and much more. Join us and make a difference in National Security!

Job Summary

Leidos is seeking a Lead Penetration Tester to join a high performing agile team using the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) methodology on a large, complex program that provides system engineering, development, test, integration and operational support. The selected candidate will work on a team of cyber Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) who are providing support to a large, complex technical program for preventing, identifying, containing and eradicating cyber threats to networks through monitoring, intrusion detection, and protective security services on information systems including local area networks/wide area networks (LAN/WAN), commercial Internet connections, public facing websites, security devices, servers and workstations. She/he will be responsible for the overall security of Enterprise-wide information systems, and will collect, investigate, and report any suspected and confirmed security violations.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Perform internal and external pentests against systems to determine vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies.

  • Perform web app pentests.

  • Perform vulnerability risk assessments.

  • Perform physical pentests and social engineering analysis.

  • Perform cyber incident response as needed.

  • Evaluate the impact of new development on the operational security posture of IT systems.

  • Evaluate, review, and test critical software.

  • Formulate security compliance requirements for new system features.

  • Identify and remediate security issues throughout the system.

  • Audit and assess system security configuration settings using common methodologies and tools.

  • Work with development teams to enrich team-wide understanding of different types of vulnerabilities, attack vectors, and remediation approaches.

  • Work closely with System Engineering, Test Engineering, and Integration teams to ensure hardware and software architecture and implementations meet strict security requirements.

  • Propose, assess, coordinate, implement, and enforce information systems security policies, standards, and methodologies.

  • Serve as a Subject Matter Expert in security architecture, to include providing advice to Program Managers, Customer technical experts, and internal program teams.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a technical/information assurance field and at least 12 years of prior relevant experience. Additional years of experience and/or cyber certifications may be considered in lieu of a degree.

  • Must have experience with penetration testing tools.

  • Must have experience in web development and programming languages such as Java, XML, Perl and HTML.

  • Must have experience with programming/scripting in Python, Powershell, C, JavaScript, etc.

  • Must have extensive experience performing IT security risk assessments.

  • Must have experience performing web app and physical pentests.

  • Must have experience with or strong familiarity of the following Web Application tools; Burp Suite, Web Inspect, Appdetective.

  • Must have experience with or strong familiarity of Kali.

  • Must have experience with or strong familiarity of IPS/IDS solutions.

  • Must have a strong understanding of the Cyber Kill Chain methodology.

  • Must have experience applying Risk Management Framework.

  • Must have experience with secure configurations of commonly used desktop and server operating systems.

  • Must have the ability to effectively collaborate with technical staff and customers to form mitigation strategies and plan for continuous modernization and legacy integration.

  • Must have experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and quickly and effectively adjusting to shifting priorities in resolving issues.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Certifications in one or more of the following areas strongly preferred:

    • GIAC Web Applications Penetration Tester (GWAPT)

    • GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)

    • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

    • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

    • Certified Web Application Defender (GWEB)

    • Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)

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

  • Extensive experience providing information assurance support for application development that includes system security certifications and project evaluations for firewalls that encompass development, design, and implementation.

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that allow them to thrive professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. We look forward to learning more about you - apply today.

careers.leidos.com/CONMD

CSSKEY

CONMD

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:November 4, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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