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Penetration Tester Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

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 ...

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 ...

gTANGIBLE

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

Penetration Tester Location: Arlington, VA Security Clearance:Secret Duties and Responsibilities The Penetration Tester supports this Transportation Security Administration Information Technology ...

Xcelerate Solutions

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Description Penetration Tester Xcelerate Solutions is seeking a Penetration Tester to support CyberPRIMES cybersecurity, privacy, records and information management, and related enterprise support ...

GuidePoint Security

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

The role will be in response to performing penetration testing engagements using major frameworks like OWASP and NIST, against a range of technologies such as web applications, servers, operating ...

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 ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Penetration Tester

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60 - $70/hr

The Judge Group is currently seeking a Penetration Tester with an active secret clearance to support a classified customer in Beltsville, MD. This position is onsite five days per week. Core ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$117K - $199K/yr

Lead and perform advanced security assessments, including hands-on penetration testing of systems and applications. * Identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and deliver clear, actionable remediation ...

Altus Consulting Corp

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

Principal Penetration Tester Altus Consulting seeks a seasoned cybersecurity professional to spearhead our penetration testing initiatives. As a key member of our elite team, you'll play a crucial ...

Eliassen Group

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Coordinate and conduct Agency penetration testing on systems operated by and on behalf of NCUA, ensuring access occurs only through specified authentication methods and is limited to vetted personnel.

Altus Consulting Corp

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

Principal Penetration TesterAltus Consulting seeks a seasoned cybersecurity professional to spearhead our penetration testing initiatives. As a key member of our elite team, you'll play a crucial ...

Altus Consulting Corp

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

Principal Penetration Tester Altus Consulting seeks a seasoned cybersecurity professional to spearhead our penetration testing initiatives. As a key member of our elite team, you'll play a crucial ...

M9 Solutions

Penetration Tester II

Washington, DC · On-site

They are seeking a Penetration Tester II to work on-site in support of a government contract, requiring an active Secret clearance and expertise in various penetration testing methodologies.

Connsci

Penetration Tester

Gaithersburg, MD · Remote

Connsci is seeking a Penetration Tester to join our growing organization. This individual will be directly supporting one of our government programs and will be responsible for penetration testing ...

VMD Corp

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Description Penetration Tester Xcelerate Solutions is seeking a Penetration Tester to support CyberPRIMES cybersecurity, privacy, records and information management, and related enterprise support ...

Xcelerate-Solutions-5

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Xcelerate Solutions is seeking a Penetration Tester to support CyberPRIMES cybersecurity, privacy, records and information management, and related enterprise support for DHRA, including DMDC and OUSD ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPenetration Tester JobsPenetration Tester Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Penetration Tester information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$23.3K

$123.9K

$174.2K

How much do penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration tester in Silver Spring, MD is $123,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,200.00 and $145,800.00 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 Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,945 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester

CACI International Inc

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
CACI International Inc is a company focused on Cyber Operations, and they are seeking a Penetration Tester to perform computer network evaluations and penetration security assessments. The role involves working in a cybersecurity red team environment and contributing to national security efforts while being part of a collaborative and engaging team culture.
Responsibilities:
• Perform computer network evaluations to include penetration security assessments in a cybersecurity red team environment.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Experience performing Red Team, Blue Team Operations.
• Certifications such as OSCP, OSCE, GPEN, GWAPT, GPEN, GXPN, CEH, CISSP.
• Malware analysis or digital computer forensics experience.
• Cyber related Law Enforcement or Counterintelligence experience.
• Scripting (Windows/*nix), Bash, Python, Perl or Ruby, Systems Programming is a plus.
• Existing Subject Matter Expert of Advanced Persistent Threats and Emerging Threats.
• Proactive interest in emerging technologies and techniques related to penetration testing.
• Demonstrated real world experience performing grey and black box penetration testing.
• Have an understanding of and interest in common web application vulnerabilities like XSS, CSRF, Command Injection, SQLi, single sign-on limitations, etc.
• Must be proficient in any of the following: PowerShell Empire, Metasploit Framework, Cobalt Strike, Burp Suite, Canvas, Kali Linux, IPTables, Sysinternals, A/V evasion methodologies, Exploit Dev.
• Must have solid working experience and knowledge of Windows operating systems (incl. Active Directory), Linux operating systems; ESXi or similar; mobile platforms are a plus.
• Solid understanding of networking, TCP/IP, virtualization and cloud/data center architecture.
• Strong familiarity with some of the following: OWASP top 10, DoD and NSA Vulnerability and Penetration Testing Standards.
• Knowledge of exploitation concepts including phishing and social engineering tactics, buffer overflows, fuzzing, SQLi, MiTM, covert channels, secure tunneling and open source exfiltration techniques.
• Bachelors degree in related field.
• Active TS/SCI w/polygraph clearance.
Company:
At CACI International Inc (NYSE: CACI), our 27,000 talented and dynamic employees are ever vigilant in delivering distinctive expertise and technology to meet our customers’ greatest challenges in national security. Founded in 1962, the company is headquartered in Arlington, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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