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Penetration Tester Part Time Jobs in Bothell, WA

Penetration Tester Part Time information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$25.2K

$134K

$188.4K

How much do penetration tester part time jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration tester part time in Bothell, WA is $134,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,300.00 and $157,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 identifying sophisticated threats and designing effective security strategies.

What Does a Part-Time Penetration Tester Do?

Part-time penetration testers evaluate the security of a computer network, website, application, database, or another type of computer system by attempting to breach the network. Unlike full-time employees, part-time penetration testers work thirty hours or less per week. In this role, you assess vulnerabilities in computer systems by attempting to hack into the network using the same techniques as a cyber hacker, and then you report on your findings to your client or employer. You also help respond to a known network threat or security breach. You may work on the staff of a technology firm or within a company's IT department, or you may be an independent contractor who works with many different clients.

Is there a shortage of penetration testers?

There is a high demand for penetration testers due to increasing cybersecurity threats, and the role often requires skills in network security, scripting, and vulnerability assessment. While shortages exist in some regions and specialties, the job market for part-time penetration testers remains competitive with many opportunities for qualified professionals.

How much do freelance penetration testers make?

Freelance penetration testers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and project complexity. Annual income can vary widely, often ranging from $50,000 to over $150,000 for experienced professionals working on high-demand projects or with specialized skills.

What are part-time penetration testers?

Part-time penetration testers are cybersecurity professionals who work on a flexible or reduced-hour schedule to assess the security of computer systems, networks, or applications. Their primary role is to simulate cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. Part-time penetration testers may be hired by organizations on a project basis or as freelance consultants, and they typically perform tasks such as vulnerability scanning, exploitation, and reporting. This flexible arrangement is ideal for those seeking work-life balance or supplementing their income while gaining experience in the cybersecurity field.

What is the difference between Penetration Tester Part Time vs Security Analyst Part Time?

AspectPenetration Tester Part TimeSecurity Analyst Part Time
CertificationsOSCP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP (preferred)
Work EnvironmentEngages in simulated attacks, testing security systemsMonitors security alerts, analyzes threats
Industry UsageUsed in cybersecurity firms, consulting, internal security teamsCommon in corporate IT departments, government agencies

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Penetration Testers Part Time actively identify vulnerabilities through simulated attacks, requiring technical certifications like OSCP or CEH. Security Analysts Part Time monitor and analyze security events, often holding certifications like Security+ or CISSP. The roles differ in daily tasks but complement each other in maintaining organizational security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penetration Tester (Part Time), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penetration Tester (Part Time), you need a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, network protocols, and common attack vectors, typically supported by a degree in computer science or relevant certifications like CEH or OSCP. Familiarity with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, as well as secure coding practices, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, accurately reporting findings, and helping organizations strengthen their security posture.

Is 30 too late for cyber security?

Age is not a barrier to becoming a penetration tester; many professionals start or transition into cybersecurity careers later in life. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills, certifications like CEH or OSCP, and practical experience, which can be achieved at any age with dedication.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time penetration testers, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Part-time penetration testers often face challenges such as balancing multiple client projects, staying updated on the latest security threats, and managing tight deadlines. Since the work may be project-based or on-call, strong time management and clear communication with clients and team members are essential. Leveraging automation tools and maintaining organized documentation can help streamline assessments and ensure high-quality results, even with limited hours. Additionally, networking with other security professionals and prioritizing continuous learning are key to staying effective in this dynamic field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Tester jobs in Bothell, WA? The most popular types of Penetration Tester jobs in Bothell, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Penetration Tester Part Time jobs in Bothell, WA? For Penetration Tester Part Time jobs in Bothell, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Bothell, WA are hiring for Penetration Tester Part Time jobs? Cities near Bothell, WA with the most Penetration Tester Part Time job openings:
Infographic showing various Penetration Tester Part Time job openings in Bothell, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,029 per year, or $64.4 per hour.
Cybersecurity - Kirkland - Non-Tenure-Track Faculty Vacancy Pool

Cybersecurity - Kirkland - Non-Tenure-Track Faculty Vacancy Pool

Western Washington University

Kirkland, WA • On-site

$1.5K - $2.2K/wk

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Western Washington University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Cybersecurity - Kirkland - Non-Tenure-Track Faculty Vacancy Pool
Work type: NTT Faculty
Location: Kirkland, WA
Categories: College of Science & Engineering
Position Title Cybersecurity - Kirkland - Non-Tenure-Track Faculty Vacancy Pool
About the University
Western Washington University, with over 15,000 students in seven colleges and the graduate school, is nationally recognized for its educational programs, students and faculty. The campus is located in Bellingham, Washington, a coastal community of 90,000 overlooking Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades Mountain range. The city lies 90 miles north of Seattle and 60 miles south of Vancouver, British Columbia. Western has additional sites in Anacortes, Bremerton, Everett, Port Angeles, and Poulsbo. Western is recognized nationally for its successes, such as being named one of the top public master's-granting institutions in the Pacific Northwest for 25 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report.
Western Washington University is committed to achieving excellence through advancing inclusive success, increasing our Washington impact, and focusing on transformational education grounded in the liberal arts and sciences and based on innovative scholarship, research, and creative activity. Western's greatest strength is the outstanding students, faculty, staff, and alumni/ae who make up its community. Western supports an inclusive governance structure for all and provides a learning and working environment in which everyone can thrive. In pursuit of this excellence, individual employees are expected to establish and maintain productive and effective inclusive working relationships amongst diverse populations including staff, faculty, administration, student, and external constituents. Further, individual employees are expected to have the ability to operationalize sustainability concepts (economic, societal, environmental) into all aspects of performing their job duties.
About the Department The College of Science and Engineering and the Department of Computer Science support Western's mission, which states that together with our students, staff, and faculty, we are committed to making a positive impact in the state and the world with a shared focus on academic excellence and inclusive achievement. We encourage applications from women, people of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and other candidates from underrepresented backgrounds and with diverse experiences interested in this opportunity.
About the Position The Cybersecurity Program in the Department of Computer Science at Western Washington University is seeking applications for highly talented cybersecurity experts for full- and part-time non-tenure -track (NTT) instructor appointments to teach cybersecurity and related courses in Kirkland. Courses in the program in Kirkland on the Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT) Campus are offered in nontraditional formats, including extended class periods, afternoon or evenings, and video assisted formats. Appointments may be quarterly or for a 9-month period dependent on the opportunities. Positions may become available at any time.
Required Qualifications
  • MS in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related fields
  • Demonstrated experience/education in cybersecurity
  • Demonstrated potential for successful teaching
  • Demonstrated commitment to cultivating learning environments that are equitable and inclusive of students with diverse social identities and backgrounds

Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field
  • Demonstrated expertise in one or more specific cybersecurity areas including: Penetration Testing, Forensics, Reverse Engineering, Malware Analysis, Advanced Network Security, Policy, Risk, & Compliance
  • Demonstrated ability to teach at the university level
  • Demonstrated experience and ability working with a diverse population of students, faculty, and staff

Conditions of Employment All employees must comply with our Immunization policies, including Proof of Rubeola Measles Immunity within 60-days of hire. Please reach out to HR@wwu.edu if you need information regarding medical or religious exemption and applicable accommodations.
Salary
$1,500-$2,200 per Credit, Commensurate with experience and qualifications
Benefits Information Benefits Overview for Faculty Positions
Bargaining Unit
United Faculty of Western Washington
Application Instructions
A cover letter and curriculum vitae are required and should address your experience related to the position responsibilities and the required and preferred qualifications.
You will be asked to provide contact information of three references.
Closing Date Notes
Applications are accepted continuously for potential NTT faculty openings; please apply at your earliest convenience. Vacancy pool closes no later than March 31, 2027.
Western Washington University (WWU) is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with applicable laws, WWU does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, citizenship or immigration status, pregnancy, use of protective leave, genetic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, creed, religion, veteran or military status, disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal (including a service animal in training) by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law, in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs. See WWU's Policies on Prohibiting Discrimination Based on A Protected Class and Prohibiting Discrimination Based on Sex. Inquiries may be directed to the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance, Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Western Washington University, Old Main 126 (MS 9021), 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360.650.3307 (voice) or 711 (Washington Relay); crtc@wwu.edu
WWU is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request an accommodation, please contact Human Resources Disability Services, 360.650.3751 or 711 (Washington Relay).
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: This report is provided pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act ("The Clery Act"). It includes statistics for the previous three calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred on Western's campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Western; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report in printed or alternate formats by contacting the Office of Student Life at student.life@wwu.edu. The report can be found at: Annual Security and Fire Safety Report.
All new employees must comply with the immunization policy and show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Service before beginning work at WWU. A thorough background check will be conducted on all new hires and rehires, which includes a sexual misconduct background check.
Job no: 502856
Advertised: Mar 05 2026 09:00 Pacific Standard Time
Applications close: Mar 31 2027 23:55 Pacific Daylight Time
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