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Pen Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DepthFirst

Product Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Depending on company priorities and your background, you may work on Agentic Pen-testing our Supply Chain security product suites. You're excited about this role because you will... * Own product ...

PayPal

Sr Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

... for pen testing (1 year). 11. Offline-First and Sync Architecture (1 year). Additional Responsibilities & Preferred Qualifications: EOE, including disability/vets. The base pay for this role will ...

Tapestry

Product Lead, Data Platform

Mountain View, CA · On-site

Architect the Zero-Trust identity framework aligned with industry standards (ISO, pen testing, threat detection). * Privacy by Design: Lead the development of automated controls for GDPR, CCPA, and ...

Google

Senior Security Engineer, Google Cloud

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Experience with information security incident and threat assessments (incident response, pen testing, vulnerability assessments). About the job There's no such thing as a "safe system" - only safer ...

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All JobsPen Testing JobsPen Testing Jobs in California

Pen Testing information

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How much do pen testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for pen testing in California is $18.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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. Gaining relevant skills often involves learning programming, using tools like Kali Linux, and obtaining certifications such as the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), which can be challenging but achievable with dedicated effort.
What are popular job titles related to Pen Testing jobs in California? For Pen Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pen Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pen Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pen Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Pen Testing job openings:
Pen Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pen Testing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 58% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,286 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Security Ops Compliance/Audits Program Manager

Varite

Mountain View, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Duration: 6 months (Hybrid)
Job Description:
  • We are seeking an experienced Security Ops Compliance/Audits Program Manager to provide compliance and security program support. This role sits within a high-impact audit and compliance team supporting key audit readiness initiatives across one of client's largest product areas.
  • The successful candidate will bring a strong background in program management, along with preferred experience in IT/security compliance and audits operations.
  • You will be coordinating with engineers, product teams, and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure audit activities remain on track and compliant.
  • This is not a role for designing new systems - it's about "keeping the lights on" and maintaining current standards with precision and urgency.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Maintain and update program trackers and dashboards to provide visibility into project status, timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
  • Define, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and compliance metrics to measure program health and audit readiness progress.
  • Regularly communicate program status updates, risks, and success metrics to leadership and key stakeholders through structured reporting.
  • Serve as the operational point of contact to maintain and track audit readiness activities across assigned product areas.
  • Coordinate with engineering and product teams to validate compliance with audit controls (e.g., ISO 27001, SOX).
  • Monitor and ensure completion of critical activities such as annual penetration testing, documentation, and procedural checks.
  • Drive follow-ups with stakeholders to meet non-negotiable compliance deadlines.
  • Work within existing playbooks, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and documentation frameworks.
  • Escalate roadblocks, non-compliance risks, or resourcing concerns as needed.

Top Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Program Management Experience (Minimum 2 Years)
  • Proven ability to manage complex programs with minimal supervision.
  • Experience managing project timelines, risks, and metrics using tools like Jira, Smartsheet, or equivalent program tracking platforms.
  • Strong skills in developing and maintaining KPIs, audit track
  • Audit or Compliance Experience (Strongly Preferred)
  • Knowledge of ISO 27001, SOX, and related audit frameworks.
  • Familiarity with controls, audit cycles, and readiness best practices.
  • Security / IT Operations Background (Strongly Preferred)
  • Understanding of IT security concepts such as access management, business continuity, pen testing, and vulnerability management.

Preferred Certifications:
  • PMP or equivalent Project Management certification.
  • CISA, CISSP, or ISO 27001 Lead Implementer.

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent industry experience.

About US Tech Solutions:
US Tech Solutions is a global staff augmentation firm providing a wide range of talent on-demand and total workforce solutions. To know more about US Tech Solutions, please visit www.ustechsolutions.com.
US Tech Solutions 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, or status as a protected veteran.

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