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Penetration Tester Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as ...

Workiva

$40/hr

Familiarity with vulnerability scanning tools and/or penetration testing techniques * Familiarity with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and/or Google App Engine (GAE) * Working knowledge of Linux/Unix ...

Workiva

$40/hr

Familiarity with vulnerability scanning tools and/or penetration testing techniques * Familiarity with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and/or Google App Engine (GAE) * Working knowledge of Linux/Unix ...

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All JobsPenetration Tester JobsPenetration Tester Jobs in Iowa

Penetration Tester information

See Iowa salary details

$21.1K

$112.6K

$158.3K

How much do penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration tester in Iowa is $112,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,200.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a penetration tester?

Penetration Testers, also known as ethical hackers, are cybersecurity professionals who simulate cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, or applications to identify and address security vulnerabilities. Their work helps organizations discover weak points before malicious hackers can exploit them. Penetration testers use a variety of tools and techniques to mimic real-world threats and provide detailed reports with recommendations for improving security. They play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and integrity of an organization’s digital assets.

What does a penetration tester do?

As a penetration tester, your job is to test the security of a network by attempting to hack into an application, system, or computer. Penetration testing can occur in a variety of ways, from physical interaction with the machine you’re trying to hack to attacks sent over the web. Aside from helping clients test for vulnerabilities, your job also includes explaining how you got in and providing recommendations for stopping others from repeating your actions. In some cases, you may be asked to help investigate cyber crimes or explain methods and techniques in criminal trials. Success in this job is often measured by how many security holes you find and close.

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 networking, operating systems, cybersecurity principles, and typically hold certifications like OSCP or CEH. Proficiency with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Wireshark is crucial for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help Penetration Testers effectively document findings and convey risks to clients. These skills and qualities are vital for uncovering security weaknesses and helping organizations strengthen their defenses against cyber threats.

What are some common challenges penetration testers face during client engagements?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to information, strict time constraints, and navigating complex or legacy systems. Additionally, they must balance thorough testing with minimizing disruptions to client operations. Effective communication is crucial, as testers need to clearly document findings and explain technical vulnerabilities to non-technical stakeholders to ensure remediation efforts are understood and prioritized.

What is the difference between Penetration Tester vs Vulnerability Analyst?

AspectPenetration TesterVulnerability Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCVE, CISSP, GIAC
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksVulnerability scanning, risk assessment
Employer & IndustryCybersecurity firms, IT departmentsSecurity teams, compliance agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding testing roles, skillsIdentifying vulnerabilities, analysis methods

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Penetration Tester actively exploits vulnerabilities to test security defenses, whereas a Vulnerability Analyst identifies and assesses weaknesses without exploiting them. Penetration Testers typically perform simulated attacks, requiring hands-on skills and certifications like OSCP or CEH. Vulnerability Analysts focus on scanning and reporting vulnerabilities, often working with tools like Nessus or Qualys. Both roles are essential for a comprehensive security strategy but differ in approach and responsibilities.

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.

Is penetration testing a hard job?

Penetration testing can be challenging as it requires strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of security vulnerabilities. The job often involves staying updated on new threats and using tools like Kali Linux and Metasploit, which can be complex for beginners. Success in this role depends on continuous learning and practical experience.
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Penetration Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Tester job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,613 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Cybersecurity Operations Director

Pearl Technology

Davenport, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

The Cybersecurity Operations Director role combines a comprehensive understanding of information security with the management and coordination skills required to analyze and implement best security practices and proper risk management across the corporate landscape. 

  • Also responsible for monitoring, detecting, analyzing, mitigating, and responding to cyber threats against IT assets, networks, and information. 
  • The environment includes local area networks/wide area networks (LAN/WAN), commercial Internet connections, public facing websites, wireless, mobile/cellular, cloud, security devices, servers and workstations.
  • Take lead in performing security testing of applications, networks and infrastructures, including vulnerability assessments, penetration testing and manual testing techniques.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Lead and manage a 24x7x365 Security Operations Center providing technical oversight.
  • Lead staff to proactively identify, prevent and respond to security incidents.
  • Ensure incident identification, assessment, quantification, reporting, communication, mitigation and monitoring.
  • Ensure compliance to Service Level Agreements (SLA), process adherence and process improvisation to achieve operational objectives and mitigate threats.
  • Revise and develop processes to strengthen the current operational activities; review policies and recommend changes to improve governance.
  • Responsible for team management, personnel scheduling, overall use of resources and initiation of corrective action where required for Security Operations Center.
  • Perform threat management, threat modeling, identify threat vectors and develop use cases for security monitoring.
  • Creation of reports, dashboards, metrics for SOC operations and presentation to client.
  • Operate a hands-on role involving penetration testing and vulnerability assessment activities of complex applications, operating systems, wired and wireless networks, and mobile applications/devices.
  • Manage consulting engagements, with a focus on incident response and forensics. Provide both subject matter expertise and project management experience to serve as the “point person” for engagements.
  • Communicate security issues to a wide variety of internal and external “customers” to include technical teams, executives, risk groups, vendors and regulators.
  • Ensures that disaster recovery and business continuity plans are in place and tested on a regular basis.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct supervision of the Security Services department. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Company policies, procedures, and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, promoting and training employees; planning, assigning, directing and approving work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems; and recommending salary adjustments.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in information technology or related field and combination of experience in the following areas:
    • 10+ years in security and/or risk assessment/management related field
    • Hands on experience with testing frameworks such as the PTES and OWASP
    • Applicable knowledge of Windows client/server, Unix/Linux systems, Mac OS X, VMware/Xen, and cloud technologies such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud
    • In-depth knowledge of security concepts such as cyber-attacks and techniques, threat vectors, risk management, incident management etc.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Critical thinker and problem solver.
  • Experience in performing vendor management.
  • Detailed orientated with effective written and communication skills.

Certifications and Licenses:

  • CISSP, GIAC, CISSP, CEH, OSCP, or equivalent certifications a plus

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