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Penetration Tester Internship Jobs in Reston, VA

VTG

Sr. Test & Evaluation Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$140K - $190K/yr

Technical support for hardware testing, software testing, modeling and simulation, and flight ... internship engineering experience, OR * b) A master's degree in a relevant field and at least 10 ...

VTG

Sr. Test & Evaluation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Technical support for hardware testing, software testing, modeling and simulation, and flight ... internship engineering experience, OR * b) A master's degree in a relevant field and at least 10 ...

VTG

Sr. Test & Evaluation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Technical support for hardware testing, software testing, modeling and simulation, and flight ... internship engineering experience, OR * b) A master's degree in a relevant field and at least 10 ...

All JobsPenetration Tester JobsPenetration Tester Internship JobsPenetration Tester Internship Jobs in Reston, VA

Penetration Tester Internship information

See Reston, VA salary details

$23.4K

$124.7K

$175.3K

How much do penetration tester internship jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration tester internship in Reston, VA is $124,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,900.00 and $146,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 foundational knowledge in computer networking, security principles, and operating systems, often demonstrated through relevant coursework or entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+. Familiarity with tools such as Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Wireshark is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication make an intern stand out when reporting findings to teams. These skills and qualities are essential for identifying vulnerabilities, learning quickly, and contributing meaningful insights to strengthen organizational security.

What are the qualifications to get a penetration tester internship?

The qualifications for a penetration tester internship vary based on the employer. Employers typically seek out candidates who are working toward a degree in cyber security, computer science, or information technology. You need to be proficient with Unix, Mac OSX, Linux, and Windows operating system. You should know networking concepts, TCP/IP, and defensive and offensive security, including defensive prevention techniques and offensive evasion. You need to have excellent communication skills, a basic understanding of the penetration tools within the Kali Linux suite, skills with scripting languages, such as Python, VB, Perl, and Shell, and experience website application technologies.

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

AspectPenetration Tester InternshipPenetration Tester
CredentialsOften students or recent graduates, some certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH may be preferredTypically requires certifications such as OSCP, CEH, or CISSP, along with relevant experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, and learning-focused roles in security teams or consulting firmsFull-time, independent roles conducting security assessments for organizations
Employer & Industry UsageInternships are offered by tech companies, cybersecurity firms, and organizations seeking entry-level talentFull-fledged cybersecurity teams within organizations or consulting firms specializing in security testing

The main difference between a Penetration Tester Internship and a Penetration Tester is experience level and responsibility. Internships are designed for beginners gaining hands-on experience, often with supervision, while Penetration Testers are experienced professionals conducting independent security assessments.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a penetration tester internship?

As a Penetration Tester Intern, you'll typically assist with controlled security assessments, such as vulnerability scanning, network mapping, and simulating cyberattacks under supervision. You may analyze system vulnerabilities, document findings, and help prepare reports for clients or internal teams. The internship often involves collaborating with experienced testers and IT staff, providing a valuable opportunity to learn industry-standard tools and methodologies. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing both technical and communication skills in a real-world security environment.

What is a penetration tester internship?

A Penetration Tester Internship is a temporary, entry-level position where individuals learn how to identify and exploit security vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications under the supervision of experienced cybersecurity professionals. Interns assist with ethical hacking activities, security assessments, and reporting findings to help organizations improve their security posture. The role is designed to provide hands-on experience in cybersecurity and often serves as a stepping stone to a full-time penetration tester position.
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Penetration Tester Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Tester Internship job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,733 per year, or $60 per hour.

DoD SkillBridge Intern (CNO Developer)

Cohere Technology Group LLC

Chantilly, VA • Remote

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Cohere is seeking applicants for our CNO Development SkillBridge program!
OFFICIAL APPLICATION LINK: 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:
 
  • 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:
 
  • 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.
 
  • 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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