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Pen Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Penetration Testing Experience Needed -Manual AND automated testing -Manual pen testing experience Need to be able to actually execute and understand tools/how to use. -If they have an ethical ...

Preferred At least 2 years of experience in Security Testing (Web & Network Pen testing and Secure code analysis) Hands on security tester with proficiency in tools like HP Fortify, Web Inspect ...

Preferred At least 2 years of experience in Security Testing (Web & Network Pen testing and Secure code analysis).. Hands on security tester with proficiency in tools like HP Fortify, Web Inspect ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security posture of NRO ISs. Travel: 25% estimate for pen testers (OCONUS travel 2x per year). What will you ...

Responsibilities Conduct black box ,white box security and penetration testing to assess and validate application security Perform manual pen-tests, ability to setup threat models and fuzzers. Be ...

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security posture of NRO ISs. Travel: 25% estimate for pen testers (OCONUS travel 2x per year). What will you ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security posture of NRO ISs. Travel: 25% estimate for pen testers (OCONUS travel 2x per year). What will you ...

... testing approved by the Government and write a report with all applicable findings. The report shall follow a template that shall be created, maintained, and updated by the Pen Tester with Government ...

... testing approved by the Government and write a report with all applicable findings. The report shall follow a template that shall be created, maintained, and updated by the Pen Tester with Government ...

... testing approved by the Government and write a report with all applicable findings. The report shall follow a template that shall be created, maintained, and updated by the Pen Tester with Government ...

... testing approved by the Government and write a report with all applicable findings. The report shall follow a template that shall be created, maintained, and updated by the Pen Tester with Government ...

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How much do pen testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for pen testing in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pen testing?

Pen testing, short for penetration testing, is a cybersecurity practice where professionals simulate attacks on a computer system, network, or application to identify vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit. The goal is to proactively find and fix security weaknesses before they can be used in real-world attacks. Pen testers use a variety of tools and techniques to mimic the methods of cybercriminals, and then provide detailed reports with recommendations for improving security. Organizations often conduct pen tests regularly as part of their overall security strategy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a penetration tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of network security, vulnerability assessment, and ethical hacking, often backed by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and industry certifications like CEH or OSCP. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, as well as various operating systems, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set top performers apart when explaining findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders. These skills ensure that vulnerabilities are thoroughly identified and addressed, helping organizations protect critical data and systems.

What are some common challenges faced by penetration testers when working on client projects?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes to conduct thorough assessments, incomplete or outdated documentation from clients, and the need to clearly communicate technical findings to non-technical stakeholders. They may also face restrictions on testing certain systems due to business constraints or potential operational impact. Building trust with clients and ensuring testing activities do not disrupt critical services are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Pen Testing vs Vulnerability Assessment?

AspectPen TestingVulnerability Assessment
PurposeSimulates attacks to identify exploitable vulnerabilitiesIdentifies and prioritizes security weaknesses
DepthIn-depth, targeted testingBroad, overview of vulnerabilities
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCISA, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentHands-on, technical testingAnalysis and reporting

Pen Testing involves actively exploiting vulnerabilities to assess security defenses, while Vulnerability Assessment focuses on identifying and prioritizing potential weaknesses without exploiting them. Both are essential for a comprehensive security strategy but serve different roles in cybersecurity testing.

How do you become a pen tester?

To become a penetration tester, you typically need a strong foundation in computer networks, operating systems, and security principles, often gained through a degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or related fields. Gaining hands-on experience with tools like Kali Linux, Metasploit, and Wireshark, along with industry certifications such as the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), can improve job prospects. Continuous learning and staying updated on emerging vulnerabilities are essential in this field.

How hard is it to get into pen testing?

Pen testing is a specialized cybersecurity role that typically requires a strong understanding of networks, operating systems, and security principles, often gained through certifications like OSCP or CEH and hands-on experience. Entry can be competitive, but building skills with practical labs, scripting, and knowledge of tools like Kali Linux can improve chances of breaking into the field.

Is pen testing a good career?

Penetration testing, or pen testing, is a cybersecurity role focused on identifying vulnerabilities in systems and networks. It requires technical skills, knowledge of security tools, and often certifications like OSCP or CEH. The field offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for continuous learning, making it a strong career choice for those interested in cybersecurity.
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Infographic showing various Pen Testing job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,807 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Senior Lead Application Pen Testing Cybersecurity Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA • On-site, Remote

Wells Fargo
Finance and Insurance • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Wells Fargo rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 717 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About this role:

Wells Fargo is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Lead Application Pen Testing Cyber Security Research Engineer to join the Application Penetration Testing department. This technical leadership role will be responsible for advancing and integrating penetration testing practices across all phases of the software development lifecycle. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in security testing methodologies, artificial intelligence, offensive security tooling, and hands-on penetration testing.

In this role, the Senior Lead Application Pen Testing Cyber Security Research Engineer will:

  • Lead the development of application penetration testing methods and solutions across a broad range of technology stacks.
  • Establish a mentoring program for the application penetration testing team and key partners to strengthen capabilities in offensive AI, scanning, and security research.
  • Advise senior management on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and risks associated with penetration testing.
  • Serve as an adversarial counterpoint to security strategy proposals, helping identify gaps, assumptions, and potential areas of risk.
  • Maintain awareness of industry best practices and emerging techniques to continuously enhance security testing capabilities.
  • Mentor junior team members and promote a culture of security awareness throughout the organization.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in using AIassisted development and analysis tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot and approved codecentric agents)
  • Leverage AI to accelerate system design, coding, testing, analysis, and troubleshooting
  • Apply strong technical judgment when validating and integrating AIassisted outputs into solutions
  • Understand and account for model limitations, security risks, and operational considerations
  • Apply AI responsibly in development and production environments
  • Ensure AI usage aligns with security, compliance, privacy, and ethical standards


Required Qualifications:

  • 7+ years of Cyber Security Research experience, or equivalent demonstrated through one or a combination of the following: work experience, training, military experience, education


Desired Qualifications:

  • Burp Suite Certified Professional, OSCP certification or other similar related security certifications
  • GCP and Azure certifications
  • Deep expertise in application penetration testing, offensive security research, and adversary emulation
  • Experience building security tools, automation, or offensive security frameworks using modern programming languages
  • Experience assessing AI/ML systems, Generative AI applications, LLM security risks, prompt injection, model misuse, and AI red teaming techniques
  • Strong stakeholder management and executive communication skills with the ability to influence senior leaders across large organizations
  • Experience mentoring and developing security testing teams in highly regulated environments

Job Expectations:

  • Ability to travel up to 10% of the time.
  • This position allows for remote work from one of the following - NC, TX, CA, AZ
  • This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship

Locations

  • 1525 W WT Harris Blvd, Charlotte, NC
  • 401 Las Colinas Blvd. W, Irving, TX
  • 333 Market Street San Francisco, CA
  • 2600 South Price Road, Chandler, AZ
  • Remote locations: NC, TX, CA, AZ

Pay Range

Reflected is the base pay range offered for this position. Pay may vary depending on factors including but not limited to demonstrated examples of prior performance, skills, experience, or work location. Employees may also be eligible for incentive opportunities.

$159,000.00 - $305,000.00

Benefits

Wells Fargo provides eligible employees with a comprehensive set of benefits, many of which are listed below. VisitBenefits - Wells Fargo Jobs for an overview of the following benefit plans and programs offered to employees.

  • Health benefits
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Paid time off
  • Disability benefits
  • Life insurance, critical illness insurance, and accident insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Critical caregiving leave
  • Discounts and savings
  • Commuter benefits
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Scholarships for dependent children
  • Adoption reimbursement

Posting End Date:

4 Sep 2026

*Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.

We Value Equal Opportunity

Wells Fargo is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Employees support our focus on building strong customer relationships balanced with a strong risk mitigating and compliance-driven culture which firmly establishes those disciplines as critical to the success of our customers and company. They are accountable for execution of all applicable risk programs (Credit, Market, Financial Crimes, Operational, Regulatory Compliance), which includes effectively following and adhering to applicable Wells Fargo policies and procedures, appropriately fulfilling risk and compliance obligations, timely and effective escalation and remediation of issues, and making sound risk decisions. There is emphasis on proactive monitoring, governance, risk identification and escalation, as well as making sound risk decisions commensurate with the business unit's risk appetite and all risk and compliance program requirements.

Applicants with Disabilities

To request a medical accommodation during the application or interview process, visitDisability Inclusion at Wells Fargo.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Wells Fargo maintains a drug free workplace. Please see our Drug and Alcohol Policy to learn more.

Wells Fargo Recruitment and Hiring Requirements:

a. Third-Party recordings are prohibited unless authorized by Wells Fargo.

b. Wells Fargo requires you to directly represent your own experiences during the recruiting and hiring process.


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About Wells Fargo

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a leading financial services company that has approximately $1.9 trillion in assets, proudly serves one in three U.S. households and more than 10% of small businesses in the U.S., and is a leading middle market banking provider in the U.S. We provide a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through our four reportable operating segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management. Wells Fargo ranked No. 41 on Fortune's 2022 rankings of America's largest corporations. In the communities we serve, the company focuses its social impact on building a sustainable, inclusive future for all by supporting housing affordability, small business growth, financial health and a low-carbon economy.

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1852

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