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Pen Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... or pen-and-touch workflows Track record of inventing or adopting new techniques, tools, or ... tester generating actionable feedback. Preferred Qualifications Public practice as a teacher in ...

... or pen-and-touch workflows Track record of inventing or adopting new techniques, tools, or ... tester generating actionable feedback. Pay & Benefits At Apple, base pay is one part of our total ...

SCA Analytic Linguist (Spanish)

San Diego, CA

$35.25 - $37.75/hr

Testing shall have occurred no more than five years prior to the analytic linguist commencing work ... Pen-Link Lincoln Intercept System - A digital communications intercept collection system used by ...

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Pen Testing information

See California salary details

$9

$18

$30

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testers often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes to conduct thorough assessments, incomplete or outdated documentation from clients, and the need to clearly communicate technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.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:
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.

Advanced Technology Executive- California

Zones

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Zones LLC rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 221 rated it services


Job description

Description

Company Overview:
 
When it comes to IT solution providers, there are a lot of choices. But when it comes to providers with innovative and differentiating end-to-end service offerings, there’s really only one: Zones – First Choice for IT.TM 
 
Zones is a Global Solution Provider of end-to-end IT solutions with an unmatched supply chain. Positioned to be the IT partner you need, Zones, a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) in business for over 35 years, specializes in Digital Workplace, Cloud & Data Center, Networking, Security, and Managed/Professional/Staffing services. Operating in more than 120 countries, leveraging a robust portfolio, and utilizing the highest certification levels from key partners, including Microsoft, Apple, Cisco, Lenovo, Adobe, and more, Zones has mastered the science of building digital infrastructures that change the way business does business ensuring whatever they need, they can Consider IT Done. Follow Zones, LLC on Twitter @Zones, and LinkedIn and Facebook.
 
Position Overview:
 
We are seeking a high-performing Advanced Technology Executive who excels in field sales, driving profitable growth, and generating strong ACV service bookings. This role is responsible for creating and closing complex technology opportunities while maintaining a disciplined focus on gross margin performance and long-term customer value.
 
Success in this role is measured not only by revenue, but by the quality of deals, margin attainment, and recurring services growth.   This is not a farming role.
 
 
What you will do as the Advanced Technology Executive (ATE):
 
The requirements below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position, and the duties and responsibilities may change without notice.
 
This role requires up to 50% travel
 
 
Pipeline & Opportunity Management
  • Own the full sales cycle for assigned accounts and opportunities, from prospecting through close
  • Build and maintain a strong pipeline with a focus on high-margin, services-led opportunities
  • Execute disciplined opportunity qualification and deal progression
 
Gross Margin & ACV Ownership
  • Drive deals that meet or exceed gross margin targets
  • Generate and grow ACV service bookings, including managed services and professional services
  • Structure deals that balance customer value with sustainable, profitable growth
  • Understand and manage margin drivers across hardware, software, and services
 
Solution & Services-Led Selling
  • Lead value-based discovery focused on customer business outcomes
  • Position services as a core component of every solution
  • Collaborate with solution architects, services teams, and partners to design scalable, margin-accretive solutions
 
Field Sales Execution
  • Engage directly with executive-level stakeholders (CIO, CTO, CISO, VP-level)
  • Conduct in-person and virtual meetings to advance complex sales cycles
  • Navigate multi-stakeholder buying environments with confidence
 
Forecasting & Deal Discipline
  • Maintain accurate pipeline, forecasting, and CRM hygiene
  • Participate in deal reviews with clear visibility into revenue, margin, and ACV
  • Consistently deliver against quarterly and annual revenue, margin, and services targets
 
Partner & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Leverage OEMs, ISVs, and channel partners to optimize solution design and margin
  • Partner closely with presales, services, finance, and leadership teams to ensure successful deal execution
 
What you will bring to the team:
 
  • 7+ years of field sales experience in B2B technology
  • Strong understanding of deal economics, margin drivers, and ACV
  • Demonstrated success closing complex, solution-based deals
  • Experience selling advanced or emerging technologies
  • Existing network within target industries or accounts
  • Experience working with OEMs and channel partners
  • Experience selling into Enterprise and Mid Market segments
  • Strong territory planning skills
  • Experience orchestrating technical and support resources (teamwork)
  • Strong executive presence with the ability to influence senior leaders
  • Highly motivated, competitive, and resilient mindset
  • Willingness to travel regularly to meet customers face-to-face
 
Offerings - AT Products, Professional and Managed Services, such as: 
 
  • Digital Workplace
    • Service Desk
    • Field Deployment
  • Nextgen Networking
    • Network Modernization
    • NOC
  • Security
    • SOC
    • Identity and Access Management
    • Vulnerability Assessment and Pen Testing
    • Governance, Risk, Compliance Assessments
  • Cloud and Datacenter
    • Datacenter Modernization 
    • Migration Services
    • Multi Cloud Managed Services
    • Cloud Advisory and Optimization
  • Staffing
    • Staffing Services
 
What Success Looks Like:
  • Consistent achievement of gross margin and ACV targets
  • Strong pipeline of profitable, services-led opportunities
  • Trusted advisor to customers and internal stakeholders
  • Recognized for disciplined deal execution and strategic selling
 
Qualified Candidates can expect a salary range of $110,000-$120,000 + Commission
 
#LI-Remote
#LI-AK1
Zones offers a comprehensive Benefits package
While we’re committed to providing top-tier solutions, we’re just as committed to supporting our own team. Our team members enjoy a variety of comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, voluntary accident, hospitalization and critical illness insurance options, a 401(k) plan with matching provision, and many more. Generally, Zones currently offers paid time off and personal sick leave in compliance to individual state requirements. 
At Zones, work is more than a job – it is an exciting career on a global team that is client centric, has a passion for technology, embraces change and lifelong learning in a collaborative culture. And as a Minority Business Enterprise, a Corporate Plus member of the Northwest Minority Supplier Development Council, and an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, our community is just as diverse. If you’re interested in working on the cutting edge of IT innovation, sales, engineering, operations, administration, and more, Zones is the place for you! 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy.
 
Zones participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is a system that compares information from a team member’s Form I-9 to federal records to confirm their eligibility to work in the United States. 

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