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Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TekSynap

Penetration Tester

Carson City, NV · On-site

Penetration Tester - Intermediate Under general supervision, perform penetration testing of applications, systems, and network enclaves to identify security weaknesses and vulnerabilities. Assess ...

Omni Inclusive

Penetration Tester

Cary, NC · On-site

Client Webinspect and HCL Appscan preferred - any other tools is OK as well Minimum 7 years of experience Work with enterprise programs on penetration testing and online application security Worked ...

TekSynap

Penetration Tester

Reston, VA · On-site

Coordinate penetration testing activities and schedules with internal stakeholders, system owners, and external partners as required. * Perform network vulnerability assessments and exploitation ...

TekSynap

Penetration Tester

Coordinate penetration testing activities and schedules with internal stakeholders, system owners, and external partners as required. * Perform network vulnerability assessments and exploitation ...

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 ...

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 ...

VTG Defense

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO · 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 ...

Sunrise Systems

Penetration Tester

$92.30/hr

Penetration Tester Job ID: 26-03154 Location: Remote Duration: 12 Months on W2 contract (Possible Extension) Must-Have Skills: * 3+ years of hands-on Penetration Testing / Offensive Security ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Penetration Tester information

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$168.5K

How much do penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 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 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.
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Penetration Tester jobs near you
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

West Advanced Technologies

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Penetration Tester
Sacramento, CA
24+ months
Required Skills:
Must have performed IT testing and assessment services for at least one corporation or state agency within the last two years.
Bachelor's degree in IT or related Engineering Field.
Desired Skills:
Must have three or more of the following certificates:
o Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN).
o Offensive Security Experienced Penetration Tester (OSEP).
o GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN).
o Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP).
o Offensive Security Exploit Developer (OSED).
o Offensive Security Exploitation Expert (OSEE).
o Offensive Security Web Expert (OSWE).
o CompTIA PenTest+.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com

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