ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Penetration Test Jobs in Quebec (NOW HIRING)

All JobsPenetration Test JobsPenetration Test Jobs in Quebec

Penetration Test information

See Quebec salary details

$29K

$110.9K

$161K

How much do penetration test jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration test in Quebec is $110,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a penetration tester?

A penetration tester, often called a 'pen tester' or ethical hacker, is a cybersecurity professional who simulates cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, or applications to identify vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit. Their goal is to uncover weaknesses before real attackers can find and exploit them, helping organizations strengthen their security. Penetration testers use a variety of tools and techniques, document their findings, and often provide recommendations for mitigation. This role requires knowledge of security protocols, programming, and the latest hacking methods.

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, operating systems, and vulnerability assessment, often backed by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and relevant certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap is typically required to identify and exploit system weaknesses. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help convey technical findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. These skills are crucial for identifying security risks, mitigating vulnerabilities, and ensuring the overall protection of organizational assets.

What are the typical challenges faced by penetration testers when working with clients?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to information, time constraints, and varying levels of security awareness among client staff. Navigating these obstacles requires strong communication skills to clarify the scope of work, as well as adaptability to different environments and technologies. Building trust with clients and providing actionable, clear reports are also essential, as they help ensure that identified vulnerabilities are understood and addressed effectively.

What is the difference between Penetration Test vs Vulnerability Analyst?

AspectPenetration TestVulnerability Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCVE, CISSP, GIAC
Work EnvironmentSimulated attacks on systems to identify security gapsScanning and analyzing vulnerabilities in networks and applications
Employer & Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, IT departments, consultingSecurity teams, risk management, compliance

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Penetration Testers actively exploit vulnerabilities to assess security defenses, whereas Vulnerability Analysts identify and prioritize vulnerabilities without exploiting them. Both roles are essential for a comprehensive security strategy and often collaborate within security teams.

How much do penetration testers make?

Penetration testers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior professionals with advanced skills and certifications like OSCP or CISSP can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand markets or specialized environments.

Is a penetration test a good career?

A career as a penetration tester involves identifying security vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks, often requiring knowledge of cybersecurity tools, scripting, and certifications like OSCP or CEH. It is a growing field with high demand for skilled professionals and offers opportunities for continuous learning and advancement. However, it can involve irregular hours and high-pressure situations depending on the employer and project scope.

Is there a demand for penetration testing?

There is strong demand for penetration testers as organizations seek to identify and fix security vulnerabilities. The role requires skills in cybersecurity tools, scripting, and certifications like OSCP or CEH, and job growth is expected to continue due to increasing cyber threats.

What is the average pay for penetration testing?

The average salary for penetration testers typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level roles may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with advanced skills and certifications like OSCP or CISSP can earn over $150,000. Many penetration testers work in cybersecurity environments that require knowledge of tools like Kali Linux and scripting languages.

What are popular job titles related to Penetration Test jobs in Quebec?

For Penetration Test jobs in Quebec, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Penetration Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Test job openings in Quebec as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 8% Temporary, 16% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $110,870 per year, or $53.3 per hour.

Practice Leader, Penetration Testing

Desjardins Group

Montreal, QC • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

As the Practice Leader, Penetration Testing, you play a central role in advancing our offensive security practice. Drawing on your expertise and technical leadership, you help establish best practices, support the team on its most complex files and strengthen team members' capabilities. You also play a key role in continuously improving the practice and carrying out strategic, high-impact mandates. More specifically, you will be required to :

  • Serve as the team's technical authority and support team members through every stage of penetration testing, from planning and execution to final deliverables
  • Define, maintain and enhance methodologies, practice guides, standards, tools and quality criteria, and oversee their application to ensure consistent, high-quality offensive security activities
  • Contribute offensive security expertise to help prioritize activities based on current and emerging threats
  • Coach and mentor the team on technical matters, promote knowledge sharing and help build the practice's technical expertise
  • Work with other practice leaders (domain owners) and relevant partners to advance the organization's cybersecurity practices and ways of working
  • Contribute to strategic, sensitive and high-profile files requiring advanced offensive security expertise
  • Propose and lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the quality, efficiency and maturity of penetration testing operations

What we offer*

  • Competitive salary and annual bonus
  • 4 weeks of flexible vacation starting in the first year
  • Defined benefit pension plan that provides predictable, stable income throughout retirement
  • Group insurance including telemedicine
  • Reimbursement of health and wellness expenses and telework equipment

*Benefits apply based on eligibility criteria.

#LI-Remote


What you bring to the table

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field
  • A minimum of eight years of relevant experience conducting penetration tests on a variety of complex systems
  • Please note that other combinations of qualifications and relevant experience may be considered
  • Recognized offensive security or penetration testing certification, such as OSCP, OSEP, OSWE, GPEN, GXPN or an equivalent certification
  • Advanced proficiency in French, both spoken and written
  • Intermediate advanced proficiency of English, both oral and written due to the nature of the duties or work tools or because the position involves interactions with English-speaking partners, members and/or clients
  • Expertise in identifying, exploiting and analyzing vulnerabilities across a range of technology environments
  • Strong command of the methodologies, techniques and tools used in penetration testing
  • Strong command of quality assurance approaches for penetration testing activities and technical deliverables
  • Knowledge of offensive security practices, frameworks and industry standards
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity threat management issues and the ability to communicate them to a variety of stakeholders
Action oriented, Complexity, Customer Focus, Develops talent, Differences, Interpersonal Savvy, Nimble learning, Strategic mindset, Tech savvy


Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility

At Desjardins, we believe in equity, diversity and inclusion. We're committed to welcoming, respecting and valuing people for who they are as individuals, learning from their differences, embracing their uniqueness, and providing a positive workplace for all. At Desjardins, we have zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind. We believe our teams should reflect the diversity of the members, clients and communities we serve.

If there's something we can do to help make the recruitment process or the job you're applying for more accessible, let us know. We can provide accommodations at any stage in the recruitment process. Just ask!

Trade Union (If applicable)

Job Family

Security (FG)

Unposting Date

2026-08-30

Apply