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Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

3B Staffing LLC

Penetration Tester

Albany, NY · On-site

Penetration Tester GC, USC 100% onsite in Albany, NY. All Candidates must currently live in Albany, NY or the very close surrounding area. Java application security expert with 6+ years in DevSec ...

New

Spektrum

Penetration Tester

Hague, ND · On-site

Penetration Tester Role ID - C004912 Role Background The Penetration Tester will support NATO security activities by performing penetration testing, security assessments, and security design reviews ...

New

GDIT

WV · On-site

No The Penetration Tester supports the Case Management Modernization (CMM) Program for the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) by conducting security, penetration, and vulnerability ...

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 · On-site

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

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 ...

3B Staffing LLC

Penetration Tester

Albany, NY · On-site

Penetration Tester GC, USC 100% onsite in Albany, NY. All Candidates must currently live in Albany, NY or the very close surrounding area. Java application security expert with 6+ years in DevSec ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

3B Staffing LLC

Penetration Tester

Atlanta, GA · Remote

Penetration Tester (Remote from LATAM) 100% Remote from Latin America We're looking for an experienced Penetration Tester. If you're into offensive security, love breaking into systems (legally ...

New

Altus Consulting Corp

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

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Penetration Tester information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration tester in the United States is $119,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,000.00 and $141,000.00 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 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 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.
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Penetration Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester

Total Cyber Solutions LLC

Springfield, VA • On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Penetration Tester to join our team! You will implement security measures for the protection of computer networks and information.

Responsibilities:

  • Implement and monitor daily security alerts
  • Report and respond to any security breaches or viruses
  • Triage and categorize network intrusions and incidents
  • Perform periodic risk reviews and audits
  • Provide strategies for improving system security

​Qualifications:

  • Two years of experience (Preferred)
  • Red Team Experience (Preferred)
  • Previous experience in network security or other related fields
  • Knowledge of network security technologies and devices
  • Excellent root cause analysis skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Clearance

​Certifications: Any of the certifications listed below

  • CASP CE
  • CISA
  • CISSP (or Associate)
  • GCED
  • GICSP
  • GCIH

Additional Certifications (Preferred):

  • Red Team Apprentice Course (RTAC)
  • Red Team Journeyman Course (RTJC)
  • Certified Red Team Operator (CRTO) certification
  • Offensive Security, Rogue Ops- Red Team 1 (ROPS)
  • Certified Professional (OSCP)
  • (GIAC) Exploit Researcher & Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN)
  • GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
  • GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAP)

Company Description

Total Cyber Solutions is a premier provider of Government Contracting, managed IT Services, and Cybersecurity Training. We help federal agencies, commercial clients, and small businesses strengthen their cybersecurity posture and achieve operational resilience. As we expand our client base, we seek a Senior Sales Development Representative to lead top-of-funnel growth and drive qualified opportunities into the pipeline.