1

Pen Testing Jobs in Texas (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 ...

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 ...

Archer GRC Disaster Recovery Risk Assessment Security Awareness Pen Testing Vulnerability IT Audit Certifications: CISSP SANS (Preferred) Additional Information All your information will be kept ...

... pen testing, and prep us for the next compliance lifts like CASA, FCRA, state-specific data regs, and enterprise security reviews • Build the secure SDLC: threat modeling, security-sensitive code ...

Understand vulnerabilities and develop relevant payloads for use during pen testing activities. * Perform independent reviews of OCC's applications. * Debrief users and provide remediation strategy ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Pen Testing information

See Texas salary details

$8

$17

$29

How much do pen testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for pen testing in Texas is $17.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.93 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testers often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes to conduct thorough assessments, incomplete or outdated documentation from clients, and the need to clearly communicate technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.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.

How much do pen testers get paid?

Pen testers, or penetration testers, typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level roles may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with certifications like OSCP or CISSP can earn over $150,000. Salaries also vary based on the complexity of projects and the industry sector.

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.

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 do I become a pen tester?

To become a penetration tester, you should gain a strong understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and security principles, often through a degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or related fields. Earning industry-recognized certifications such as Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can improve job prospects, and practical experience with tools like Kali Linux, Metasploit, and Wireshark is essential. Continuous learning and staying updated on emerging vulnerabilities are also important in this field.

What qualifications do you need to be a pen tester?

To become a penetration tester, candidates typically need a strong understanding of networking, operating systems, and security principles, along with proficiency in scripting and using tools like Kali Linux. Relevant certifications such as Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly valued. Practical experience through labs, internships, or hands-on projects is also important.

Are pen testers in high demand?

Pen testers, or penetration testers, are in high demand due to increasing cybersecurity threats and the need for organizations to identify vulnerabilities. The role often requires knowledge of security tools, scripting, and certifications like OSCP or CEH, and job growth is expected to remain strong in the cybersecurity field.
What job categories do people searching Pen Testing jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Pen Testing jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Pen Testing jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Pen Testing job openings:
Infographic showing various Pen Testing job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,086 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$96K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

(Only GC & USC)
Job Role: Network Security
Location: Dallas, TX (Preferred)
Job Details
  • Should have following skill sets with Prerequisites - CEH + Good to have CISSP
  • Certified in Networking Concepts (CCNA).
  • Analyzing Network Traffic (Wireshark)
  • Packet Analysis with Tshark
  • M5-Detecting Live Systems and Analyzing Results
  • Nmap Advance Port Scan
  • Metasploit, Tcpdump, Snort, Nexpose, Retina, Netcat
  • Capable to analyze Dictionary & Password Attacks and should be able to suggest prevention method
  • Should have hands-on experience of different types of Pen Testing (FTP, SSH, Telnet, SMTP, DNS & DHCP, NetBIOS & SMB Pen testing, VNC)
  • Credential Dumping, Socks Proxy Pen testing
  • Experience in Firewall configuration, IDS/IPS & DMZ.
  • Sniffing & Spoofing,
  • Honeypots