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Penetration Tester Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

PingWind is focused on delivering outstanding services to the federal government, and they are seeking a Penetration Tester responsible for supporting authorized penetration testing and security ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an experienced Cyber Penetration Tester to become part of Peratons' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. Location: Northern VA; Hybrid - flex as long as person can ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an experienced Cyber Penetration Tester to become part of Peratons' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. Location: Northern VA; Hybrid - flex as long as person can ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA

$150K - $195K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$95K - $112K/yr

SkyePoint Decisions is seeking a Penetration Tester to support the Diplomatic Security Cyber Mission (DSCM) program providing leading cyber and technology security experience to enable innovative ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · On-site

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Holds or is working toward penetration testing and offensive security certifications appropriate for DoD environments, such as CEH, PenTest+, GPEN, OSCP, or equivalent DoD 8570/8140-approved ...

Leidos

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos is seeking a Penetration Tester to support an enterprise IT program. We are looking for a cyber security professional to conduct penetration testing and ethical hacking, to target, assess, and ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an experienced Cyber Penetration Tester to become part of Peratons' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. Location: Northern VA; Hybrid - flex as long as person can ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

Dark Wolf is actively seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our innovative team. This individual will play a critical role in assessing and enhancing the security of various products ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

Dark Wolf is actively seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our innovative team. This individual will play a critical role in assessing and enhancing the security of various products ...

Orison

Penetration Tester

Reston, VA · On-site

Penetration Tester Location: Reston, VA Work Mode - Hybrid role, 2 days' Work from Office (Wednesday and Thursday) Must have Skill Set - Red team pentester * Network penetration testing and ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

Dark Wolf is actively seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our innovative team. This individual will play a critical role in assessing and enhancing the security of various products ...

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All JobsPenetration Tester JobsPenetration Tester Jobs in Reston, VA

Penetration Tester information

See Reston, VA salary details

$23.4K

$124.7K

$175.3K

How much do penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration tester 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 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 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 are Penetration Testers?

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 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.

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.
More about Penetration Tester jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Tester jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Penetration Tester jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Penetration Tester jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Penetration Tester job openings:
Penetration Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Tester job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,733 per year, or $60 per hour.
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

PingWind

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
PingWind is focused on delivering outstanding services to the federal government, and they are seeking a Penetration Tester responsible for supporting authorized penetration testing and security assessment activities. The role involves identifying, validating, and documenting vulnerabilities in MODES III systems and cloud-hosted environments in accordance with Government cybersecurity requirements.
Responsibilities:
• Supports execution of authorized penetration testing activities against MODES III systems, applications, and cloud environments to identify security weaknesses. (PenTest).
• Assists with planning, scoping, and execution of penetration tests in coordination with Government stakeholders and senior cybersecurity personnel.
• Conducts technical testing activities, including vulnerability exploitation, validation, and verification, in accordance with approved rules of engagement and security policies.
• Documents penetration testing results, findings, and supporting evidence, contributing to formal reports and risk documentation.
• Supports remediation validation and retesting activities to confirm closure of identified vulnerabilities and risk reduction.
• Follows established ethical hacking standards, testing methodologies, and reporting procedures to ensure compliant and repeatable execution.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Top Secret Clearance
• Holds or is working toward penetration testing and offensive security certifications appropriate for DoD environments, such as CEH, PenTest+, GPEN, OSCP, or equivalent DoD 8570/8140-approved cybersecurity certifications.
• BS/BA degree
• 5 years relevant experience (an additional 4 years experience may be substituted in lieu of degree).
Preferred:
• Master’s Degree
Company:
PingWind specializes in cybersecurity, IT and management consulting with process improvement, logistic and supply chain operation services. Founded in 2012, the company is headquartered in Washington, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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