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Penetration Test Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eliassen Group

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Draft Rules of Engagement and test-specific penetration testing documentation for each engagement. * Perform testing and detection activities including red teaming, blue teaming, penetration testing ...

New

Eliassen Group

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Draft Rules of Engagement and test-specific penetration testing documentation for each engagement. * Perform testing and detection activities including red teaming, blue teaming, penetration testing ...

New

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Support the Red Cell Team by performing and leading penetration tests to assess the security of customer systems. * Identify vulnerabilities and develop recommended remediations to satisfy mandated ...

Barclays

Penetration Tester, AVP

Whippany, NJ · On-site

Development and maintenance of comprehensive documents and reports for senior stakeholders on penetration test findings, and remediation guidance. * Collaboration with stakeholders to understand ...

M9 Solutions

Penetration Tester II

Chandler, AZ · On-site

Responsibilities : • Conducting penetration tests on various systems and applications. • Planning and conducting Red Team engagements. • Performing IoT device penetration testing. • ...

M9 Solutions

Penetration Tester II

Washington, DC · On-site

Required : • Bachelor's degree. • At least three (3) years of pen test experience. • Experience with continuous penetration testing methodologies. • Experience with planning and conducting ...

Doist

Cleared Senior Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$165 - $185/hr

Work closely with all members of the team to conduct penetration tests on networks, applications (including APIs, mobile apps, and web applications), and systems to identify security vulnerabilities ...

Fortreum

Cleared Senior Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

We are growing rapidly and are looking for candidates with a background in conducting penetration tests of cloud service providers in support of FedRAMP and other compliance frameworks. Key ...

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How much do penetration test jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration test in the United States is $119,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,000.00 and $141,000.00 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.

Is penetration testing a good career?

Penetration testing is a growing cybersecurity field that involves identifying vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. It requires technical skills, knowledge of security tools, and often certifications like OSCP or CEH. The role offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for continuous learning, making it a viable career choice for those interested in cybersecurity.

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.

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.

What qualifications do you need to be a penetration test?

A penetration tester typically needs a strong understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and security principles, along with proficiency in scripting and using tools like Kali Linux or Metasploit. 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 this role.

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 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 value technical expertise and problem-solving skills.

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.

More about Penetration Test jobs

What cities are hiring for Penetration Test jobs?

Cities with the most Penetration Test job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Test jobs?

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What states have the most Penetration Test jobs?

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Penetration Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Test job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 20% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior Penetration Tester (WebApp and Network)

Rapid Strategy

Charlotte, NC • On-site, Remote

$50 - $65/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Rapid Strategy is seeking a Senior Penetration Test Consultant for both web apps and network. Rapid Strategy is an award-winning and  African-American owned small business providing cybersecurity services to the private and public sector. Based in Charlotte, NC, we support our clients across the North Carolina and DMV area. You can learn more about Rapid Strategy at www.RapidStrategy.io

The primary objective of the Penetration Tester is to simulate cyber attacks on web applications to identify security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. This role involves a combination of analytical skills, technical expertise, and creativity to simulate real-world hacking scenarios. 1099 and part-time positions are available as well. 

 Key Responsibilities:

  • Conducting thorough penetration tests on web applications to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Utilizing various penetration testing tools and methodologies to simulate cyber attacks.
  • Analyzing web applications for weaknesses and vulnerabilities using manual and automated methods.
  • Understanding and exploiting known web vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF), and others.
  • Preparing detailed reports on findings and providing recommendations for security improvements.
  • Collaborating with development teams to advise on security best practices.
  • Keeping abreast of the latest cybersecurity threats and testing methodologies.

 Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience
  • Industry certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT).
  • Strong understanding of web application technologies and protocols (HTTP/HTTPS, HTML, JavaScript, etc.).
  • Proficiency in using penetration testing tools like Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Metasploit, SQLMap, etc.
  • Experience with known exploits and their mitigation.
  • Ability to analyze and report on penetration testing outcomes effectively.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams.

 Desirable Skills:

  • Experience with programming/scripting languages such as Python, JavaScript, or Ruby.
  • Knowledge of network security and operating systems.
  • Familiarity with cloud environments and container technologies

This role will be primarily remote but may require travel.

1099 and part-time penetration testing roles available

 Please note that this position requires applicants to be U.S. citizens and based in the United States. Only individuals who meet these criteria will be considered for employment.

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