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Penetration Tester Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Intern

Irving, TX ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Engineering Intern - Test Automation About Us EFJohnson Technologies is a subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD ... This position will conduct security vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify ...

Developer Intern

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

FRSH is looking for a bright and capable Developer intern with high energy who is an extremely ... Git, automated testing, and test penetration tools. You will work cohesively with other the ...

Developer Intern

Manhattan, NY ยท Hybrid

$21 - $27.75/hr

FRSH is looking for a bright and capable Developer intern with high energy who is an extremely ... Git, automated testing, and test penetration tools. You will work cohesively with other the ...

QA Test Automation Developer

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Conduct penetration testing to assess security risks in AI-powered applications. * Ensure ... Employees regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours, Casual, Intern, and Temporary employees ...

Aftermarket Services Intern

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Support Factory Acceptance Team performing Factory Testing. * Tracking procurement items against ... penetration and financial goals. More information is available on the company website at: www.tas ...

Aftermarket Services Intern

Houston, TX

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Support Factory Acceptance Team performing Factory Testing. * Tracking procurement items against ... penetration and financial goals. More information is available on the company website at: www.tas ...

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Penetration Tester Intern information

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How much do penetration tester intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for penetration tester intern in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Penetration Tester Intern vs Penetration Tester?

AspectPenetration Tester InternPenetration Tester
CertificationsBasic cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+)Advanced certifications (e.g., OSCP, CEH)
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised projectsFull-time professional role, independent testing
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning-focusedExperienced, skilled in penetration testing
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with testing, learning toolsConducting security assessments, reporting vulnerabilities

The main difference between a Penetration Tester Intern and a Penetration Tester is experience and responsibility level. Interns are typically entry-level, learning the ropes under supervision, while Penetration Testers are experienced professionals conducting independent security assessments. Certifications and work environment also differ accordingly.

How much do junior penetration testers make?

Junior penetration testers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or OSCP. Entry-level roles often require basic knowledge of security tools, scripting, and vulnerability assessment techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penetration Tester Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penetration Tester Intern, you need a solid understanding of networking, cybersecurity fundamentals, and operating systems, often supported by coursework or entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Nmap, Burp Suite, and Kali Linux is typically expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure interns can identify vulnerabilities, document findings clearly, and collaborate effectively with security teams to improve organizational defenses.

What is a penetration testing intern?

A penetration testing intern is an entry-level cybersecurity professional who assists in identifying vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks through simulated cyberattacks. They typically learn to use tools like Kali Linux and may pursue certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or OSCP to develop relevant skills. This role often involves supervised testing environments and requires a basic understanding of network protocols and security principles.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Penetration Tester Intern expect during their internship?

As a Penetration Tester Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects, such as vulnerability assessments, network scanning, and assisting with simulated cyberattacks under supervision. Typical responsibilities include documenting findings, writing reports, and collaborating with full-time security analysts to remediate vulnerabilities. Interns often have opportunities to learn industry-standard tools and methodologies, and may participate in team meetings or debriefs. This role provides valuable exposure to real-world security challenges and offers a collaborative environment where interns can ask questions and develop technical skills.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Penetration testers perform manual security assessments that require critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of complex systems, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist in automating vulnerability scanning and analysis, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results and developing effective security strategies.

What does a Penetration Tester Intern do?

A Penetration Tester Intern assists cybersecurity teams by identifying and evaluating security vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. They use various tools and techniques to simulate cyberattacks under supervision, helping organizations find and fix weaknesses before real hackers can exploit them. Interns often work on tasks like vulnerability scanning, documentation, and reporting their findings to senior team members. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in ethical hacking and cybersecurity best practices.

What are the big 4 internships?

The 'Big 4' internships typically refer to internship programs at the four largest professional services firms: Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), and KPMG. These firms offer cybersecurity, audit, consulting, and advisory internships, including roles like Penetration Tester Interns, which often require relevant skills, certifications, and a strong understanding of security tools and methodologies.
More about Penetration Tester Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Penetration Tester Intern jobs? Cities with the most Penetration Tester Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Tester jobs? The most popular types of Penetration Tester jobs are:
What states have the most Penetration Tester Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Penetration Tester Intern jobs include:
DoD SkillBridge Intern (CNO Developer)

DoD SkillBridge Intern (CNO Developer)

Cohere Technology Group LLC

Chantilly, VA โ€ข Remote

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Cohere is seeking applicants for our CNO Development SkillBridge program!
OFFICIAL APPLICATION LINK:ย https://coheretechnology.applytojob.com/apply/SORZIOlpxs/DoD-SkillBridge-Intern-CNO-Developer
What is the DoD SkillBridge program?
The DoD SkillBridge Program is a transition opportunity that permits active duty service members to use up to 180 days of service to learn and train with registered industry partners at the end of their service contract. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition into a civilian workrole by participating in internship or apprenticeship-style learning opportunities that directly align with open positions. More information can be found at the following links regarding eligiblity and the authorization process:
https://skillbridge.osd.mil/military-members.htm
https://skillbridge.osd.mil/faq.htm
https://skillbridge.osd.mil/resources.htm#military-members
Cohere's SkillBridge Program
Have you ever been interested in topics such as coding, penetration testing, or exploitation?
Cohere's SkillBridge program elevates your skillsets for successful transition into CNO Developer roles. During your time as a participant, you will work on various projects to sharpen your coding abilities as well as deepen your understanding of the operating system and various security concepts. Successfully completing the program means that you will transition into CNO Developer positions at Cohere Technology where you will work on building solutions to solve cutting-edge cybersecurity problems.
Some of the topics you will learn include:
ย 
  • Programming/coding in C/C++, Assembly, and Python
  • Reverse Engineering and Binary Analysis
  • Operating System Concepts
  • Exploitation and Security Techniques
Administrative Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria in order to be eligible for our program:
ย 
  • Must be currently serving in an organization that allows participation in the SkillBridge program (US Military).
  • Must possess a current/active security clearance.
  • Must be willing to relocate to the DC/VA/MD/NJ metropolitan area upon completion of the program.
Skill Requirements
We consider applicants of any and all technical backgrounds and proficiency levels. If you have an interest in pursuing this opportunity, we encourage you to apply regardless of your current skillsets. It is also encouraged to submit an application as early as possible, even if service members are not close to their SkillBridge window. Mentoring can be provided well in advance to help prepare you for the program.
Preparation
The following criteria are optional examples that can help prepare applicants for the program. The examples listed below are not mandatory, and are also not an exhaustive list. Comparable material or criteria can also be completed to help prepare for the program.
ย 
  • College courses/degrees
    • Specializations in computer science, cybersecurity, electrical engineering, etc.
    • Classes involving programming/scripting
  • Certifications and commercial training
    • PEN-200 (OSCP), EXP-301 (OSED), EXP-401 (OSEE)
    • SANS SEC670, SANS SEC660 (GXPN), SANS SEC760, SANS FOR610 (GREM) SANS FOR710
  • Work experience
    • Developer / Programmer / Engineer
    • Red Team Operator / Penetration Tester / Cyberspace Operator
    • Malware Analyst / Reverse Engineer / Vulnerability Researcher
    • Threat Hunter / Computer Forensics / SOC Analyst / Cybersecurity Analyst
    • Systems Administrator / Technician
  • Military Specialities
    • MARINES: 1702, 1711, 1721, 1799, 0631, 0639, 0673, 2653
    • AIR FORCE: 17D, 17S, 1B4X1, 1D7X1, 1D7X5, 1N4X1, 7S0X1
    • NAVY: CWT, IT, CTN, CTI,
    • ARMY: 25D, 17A, 17B, 17C
    • SPACE FORCE: 5C0X1
    • COAST GUARD: CMS, ET, IT
  • Military Training
    • JCAC, CNODP
  • Programming
    • Familiarity with low-level languages such as C and Assembly
    • Familiarity with a scripting language such as Python

DISCLAIMER OF ENDORSEMENT: The information provided in this page is for informational purposes only and neither constitutes nor implies any endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of any entity, product, service, or organization by the Department of Defense SkillBridge program or any part of the Department of Defense.

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