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Pen Testing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Network Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Working knowledge of PEN testing * Must exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) as the position will require engagement with a variety of partners and organizations ...

Sr. Network Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Working knowledge of PEN testing * Must exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) as the position will require engagement with a variety of partners and organizations ...

Sr. Network Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Working knowledge of PEN testing * Must exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) as the position will require engagement with a variety of partners and organizations ...

Senior Network Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Working knowledge of PEN testing. * Must exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) as the position will require engagement with a variety of partners and ...

Senior Network Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Working knowledge of PEN testing. * Must exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) as the position will require engagement with a variety of partners and ...

... pen testing, content filtering, PKI, SSL/TLS * Required: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, preferred in Information Technology or Computer Science * Dedicated focus to provide every customer with a ...

... pen testing, content filtering, PKI, SSL/TLS Experience/familiarity with managing enterprise deployments of iOS, Android, and Chromebook devices Experience managing Windows Server or Red Hat Linux ...

... pen testing, content filtering, PKI, SSL/TLS • Experience/familiarity with managing enterprise deployments of iOS, Android, and Chromebook devices • Experience managing Windows Server or Red Hat ...

Experience as a network pen-tester, use of Cali Linux open-source exploitation tools, Security+ or similar IT certifications are also of interest. * Advanced skills (reading, some listening) in ...

Experience as a network pen-tester, use of Cali Linux open-source exploitation tools, Security+ or similar IT certifications are also of interest. * Advanced skills (reading, some listening) in ...

Experience as a network pen-tester, use of Cali Linux open-source exploitation tools, Security+ or similar IT certifications are also of interest. * Advanced skills (reading, some listening) in ...

Showing results 41-60

Pen Testing information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$18

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How much do pen testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for pen testing in Virginia is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 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.

What job categories do people searching Pen Testing jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Pen Testing jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Pen Testing jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Pen Testing job openings:

Infographic showing various Pen Testing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,466 per year, or $19 per hour.

Sr. Network Engineer

Apogee Integration LLC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Security Clearance: Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph required

Position
  • The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) is the U.S. Government agency in charge of designing, building, launching, and maintaining America’s intelligence satellites.
    Develop. Acquire. Launch. Operate.
  • Apogee Integration is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to work on an exciting program in Chantilly! The successful candidate will bring deep network engineering and operations expertise to plan, organize, and execute operations in support of priority mission requirements. Functions include the configuration of network equipment (routers, servers, etc.), providing system administration functions, monitoring health and status of systems, and ensuring stable and consistent data transport.
What You'll Do
  • Participate in meetings with vendors, partners, etc., where they may be called on to represent the customer in technical discussions. This requires exceptional interpersonal skills and tact to ensure that critical relationships are not only maintained but strengthened through engagement
  • Provide input for requirements affecting the current project, as well as follow-on projects, and will be proactive in researching new technologies and how they could be employed for project improvement (e.g., cloud, AI, etc.)
  • Help manage testing and validation of technical capabilities to ensure solutions meet operational needs, may be asked to draft and coordinate correspondence, provide briefings communicating operational planning to senior leaders and other mission partners, participate in or guide technical and operational discussions, meet with a variety of organizational elements in support of the project, and potentially deploy technical equipment in the field
  • Optional TDY travel (up to 5–10%) may be available
Required
  • Bachelor's Degree in a relevant technical field or relevant experience can be substituted for the degree
  • Minimum of 12 years of relevant experience
  • Minimum of 7 years of experience providing technical operations support
  • Subject matter expert on NRO’s networking infrastructure, providing technical insight and recommendations to enhance network performance, scalability, and reliability
  • Demonstrated deep network-engineering expertise, including hands-on experience with routing protocols (e.g., BGP), firewalls, and switches
  • Demonstrated experience with both Linux and Windows operating systems. The majority of the work will be in the Linux environment
  • Experience troubleshooting Linux networking issues with tools such as TCPDump, Wireshark, Netstat, and/or Zabbix
  • Ability to design and deploy infrastructure. This could range from upgrading equipment, to providing inputs on requirements that inform the development of next-gen systems
  • Exhibit a curiosity for technology, always seeking ways to improve mission. Do not need to be an expert in topics beyond networking, but get smart to know how new technology might be used (e.g., Cloud; AI) for mission enhancement.
  • Working knowledge of PEN testing
  • Must exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) as the position will require engagement with a variety of partners and organizations, both within and outside the customer organization. The reputation of the customer's organization may ride on how a candidate interacts with these partners
  • Ability to explain technical topics and operations to a non-technical audience, and apply expertise to briefing audiences of varying technical and non-technical backgrounds
  • Must be a team player and be able to work on a high-impact, multi-agency team to collaboratively tackle complex projects to achieve mission success
Desired Qualifications
  • Certifications or degrees in the Cybersecurity discipline (CISSP, GIAC GPEN, CEH, OSCP)
  • Experience working with foreign liaison
  • Demonstrated expertise drafting and coordinating correspondence to enable mission
  • Experience with command line coding in C, C++, and Python. Candidate will work with a dedicated software developer as needed to optimize tools for mission
  • Understanding penetration testing, defensive methodologies, and network
  • intrusion response
Pay
  • Target Salary Range: $150,000 to $200,000. The salary range listed represents the anticipated compensation for this position. Actual compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate's experience, qualifications, skills, and other relevant factors
What You'll Love About Apogee
  • Challenging work in support of US Intel Community - a Mission that Matters!
  • Access to our cool ApogeePlex facility.
  • Support for new ideas & encouragement to take risks
  • Professional Development Assistance (PDA)
  • Wicked smart and collaborative coworkers
  • Regular interfacing with company leadership
  • 401(k) with huge company match
  • Paid Time Off / Floating Holidays
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability (Short and Long Term)
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D)
  • Health Savings Accounts / Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Apogee's Mission
  • Be the PROVIDERof choice for government & commercial organizations with an unwavering commitment to responsiveness, accuracy, integrity, collaboration, and innovation.
  • Be theEMPLOYERof choice committed to an open & transparent corporate atmosphere and progressive culture that attracts and empowers world class professionals to explore cutting‑edge technical solutions while fostering professional growth.
  • Be the preferred SOURCE for cutting‑edge Analytic Products, Systems & Software Engineering, Big Data Integration, IT and Business Services that directly contribute to customer success
  • Apogee Integration is an EE Employer
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