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Pen Testing Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

VTG

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 ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA

$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 ...

Foxhole Technology

Senior Penetration Tester

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Previous pen testing experience Desired: Security+ Certification At Foxhole Technology, we are committed to pay transparency in accordance with applicable laws for both applicants and our employee ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

Active professional certifications such as CEH, OSCP, PNPT, GPEN, or similar security/pen testing certifications The salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $145,000.00 commensurate on ...

ECS

Blue Team Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$127K - $138K/yr

Identification and Validation of Security Flaws, Network Mapping / Network Analysis, Vulnerability Analysis, Pen-testing network filters and security countermeasures, Threat Hunting, Incident ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

Active professional certifications such as CEH, OSCP, PNPT, GPEN, or similar security/pen testing certifications The salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $145,000.00 commensurate on ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

Active professional certifications such as CEH, OSCP, PNPT, GPEN, or similar security/pen testing certifications The salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $145,000.00 commensurate on ...

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How much do pen testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for pen testing in Silver Spring, MD is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $19.90 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 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.

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 security tools. Relevant certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) are highly valued. Practical experience through labs, internships, or hands-on projects is also important for demonstrating skills in identifying vulnerabilities and exploiting security flaws.

How much can you make pen testing?

Penetration testers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in tools like Kali Linux or Metasploit can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a strong cybersecurity market.
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Pen Testing jobs near you
Senior Penetration Tester

Senior Penetration Tester

Foxhole Technology

Leesburg, VA • Hybrid

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Work Arrangement: Onsite, Hybrid, Remote

Clearance:

Foxhole Technology provides robust cybersecurity and IT support capabilities for federal civilian and defense agencies. A recognized leader in navigating technology and security challenges, Foxhole delivers mission-focused innovations to answer evolving and complex needs. Our talented employee-owners provide agile, scalable services and solutions that solve operational gaps, operate critical systems, and protect and secure the enterprise - across the organization and around the world.

Foxhole Technology is seeking a Senior Pen Tester to join our growing team in support of Security Operations Center on a newly awarded contract.  The ideal candidate will have experience working in a network security environment, such as a Security Operations Center (SOC), and have an understanding of typical cybersecurity deliverables

The Senior Pen Tester will:

  • Ensure all staff are trained and knowledgeable of the penetration testing tools and in the ability to assess penetration testing findings
  • Conduct penetration tests with the knowledge and written authorization of the system owner and only after appropriate authorities, approvals, type and scope of testing, and rules of engagement have been established
  • Perform noknowledge and/or limitedknowledge assessments as part of penetration testing of specific areas within the enterprise
  • Compare results of assessments with event logs and other captured data to determine if vulnerabilities were exploited
  • Collaborate with SOC and System Owners in determining ways to defend, alter, or reconfigure cyber defense mechanisms to strengthen resiliency and response to an attack
  • Produce reports of penetration test findings
  • Coordinate with the Government to use penetration test findings to inform, expand, or focus monitoring efforts
  • Capture, maintain and archive logs of all penetration testing activity, to include manual and automated activity
  • Provide logs on demand for forensic analysis, proof of concept, and auditing purposes

Minimum Requirements:

  • Minimum seven (7) years experience
  • BS Degree or additional work experience substitution
  • Previous pen testing experience

Desired:  Security+ Certification

Apply