Penetration testers shall be responsible for identifying network vulnerabilities in target systems and recommending defensive measures to defend against possible attack by an adversary.
Penetration testers shall be responsible for identifying network vulnerabilities in target systems and recommending defensive measures to defend against possible attack by an adversary.
Lead Penetration Tester - Remote
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
Provide mentorship and guidance to junior penetration testers. Technical Skills: * Strong knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, DNS, etc.) and infrastructure. * Proficiency in ...
Lead Penetration Tester - Remote
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
Provide mentorship and guidance to junior penetration testers. Technical Skills: * Strong knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, DNS, etc.) and infrastructure. * Proficiency in ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
Arlington, VA · On-site
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
Arlington, VA · On-site
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$95K - $112K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Quick apply
Penetration Tester
$95K - $112K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
Arlington, VA · On-site
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
Arlington, VA · On-site
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, theschedulingand coordination ofpentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, andred ...
Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, theschedulingand coordination ofpentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, andred ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester
$86K - $138K/yr
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Penetration Tester Team Lead
Ashburn, VA · On-site
Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, the scheduling and coordination of pentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, and ...
Penetration Tester Team Lead
Ashburn, VA · On-site
Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, the scheduling and coordination of pentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, and ...
Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, theschedulingand coordination ofpentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, andred ...
Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, theschedulingand coordination ofpentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, andred ...
Penetration Tester
Aberdeen, MD · On-site
$173K/yr
Join Our Dynamic Team of Penetration Testers! Embark on an exhilarating journey with us as you join a vibrant team dedicated to solving intricate, multi-disciplinary challenges across various fields.
Penetration Tester
Aberdeen, MD · On-site
$173K/yr
Join Our Dynamic Team of Penetration Testers! Embark on an exhilarating journey with us as you join a vibrant team dedicated to solving intricate, multi-disciplinary challenges across various fields.
Lead Penetration Tester
$160K - $210K/yr
Manage existing team of penetration testers * Design and conduct engineering attacks * Develop methodologies for penetration testing * Document security and compliance issues * Automate common ...
Lead Penetration Tester
$160K - $210K/yr
Manage existing team of penetration testers * Design and conduct engineering attacks * Develop methodologies for penetration testing * Document security and compliance issues * Automate common ...
Lead Penetration Tester
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$160K - $210K/yr
Manage existing team of penetration testers * Design and conduct engineering attacks * Develop methodologies for penetration testing * Document security and compliance issues * Automate common ...
Lead Penetration Tester
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$160K - $210K/yr
Manage existing team of penetration testers * Design and conduct engineering attacks * Develop methodologies for penetration testing * Document security and compliance issues * Automate common ...
Manage existing team of penetration testers * Design and conduct engineering attacks * Develop methodologies for penetration testing * Document security and compliance issues * Automate common ...
Quick apply
Manage existing team of penetration testers * Design and conduct engineering attacks * Develop methodologies for penetration testing * Document security and compliance issues * Automate common ...
This role offers hands-on experience in offensive security practices and operates under the guidance of senior penetration testers. You will contribute to strengthening the organization's security ...
This role offers hands-on experience in offensive security practices and operates under the guidance of senior penetration testers. You will contribute to strengthening the organization's security ...
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Demonstrated ability to lead a penetration test and guide Senior/Junior Penetration Testers. * U.S. citizenship required. * An active Secret security clearance. * Must have the ability to obtain a ...
Join Our Dynamic Team of Penetration Testers! Embark on an exhilarating journey with us as you join a vibrant team dedicated to solving intricate, multi-disciplinary challenges across various fields.
Join Our Dynamic Team of Penetration Testers! Embark on an exhilarating journey with us as you join a vibrant team dedicated to solving intricate, multi-disciplinary challenges across various fields.
Penetration Testers information
See salary details
$22.5K - $35.8K
0% of jobs
$35.8K - $49K
0% of jobs
$49K - $62.3K
2% of jobs
$62.3K - $75.6K
3% of jobs
$75.6K - $88.9K
1% of jobs
$101.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$88.9K - $102.1K
20% of jobs
$102.1K - $115.4K
14% of jobs
The median wage is $120.4K / yr.
$115.4K - $128.7K
26% of jobs
$138.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$128.7K - $142K
13% of jobs
$142K - $155.2K
13% of jobs
$155.2K - $168.5K
9% of jobs
$22.5K
$119.9K
$168.5K
How much do penetration testers jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration testers 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 are some common challenges Penetration Testers face when working with client organizations?
Penetration Testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to information, strict testing timeframes, and varying levels of security maturity within client organizations. Gaining necessary permissions and ensuring clear communication about the testing scope are essential to avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, Penetration Testers must frequently adapt to rapidly changing technologies and environments, making continuous learning and flexibility important for success.
What are penetration testers?
Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, are cybersecurity professionals who simulate cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, and applications to identify vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. Their goal is to find security weaknesses and report their findings to organizations, helping them strengthen their defenses. Penetration testers use a combination of automated tools and manual techniques to assess security risks and recommend remediation strategies. This role requires a deep understanding of IT systems, security protocols, and the latest hacking methods.
What is the difference between Penetration Testers vs Security Analysts?
| Aspect | Penetration Testers | Security Analysts |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | OSCP, CEH, GPEN | CISSP, Security+ |
| Work Environment | Simulated attacks, offensive security | Monitoring, incident response |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Cybersecurity firms, IT departments | Corporate, government, finance sectors |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Understanding offensive security roles | Defensive security roles |
Penetration Testers focus on simulating cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities, while Security Analysts monitor and respond to security threats. Both roles require cybersecurity certifications but differ in their approach—offensive versus defensive. Penetration Testers are proactive, testing systems for weaknesses, whereas Security Analysts are reactive, managing security incidents. Understanding these differences helps organizations build comprehensive security teams.
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 network security, operating systems, and vulnerability assessment, typically supported by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and relevant certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Wireshark is essential for effectively simulating cyberattacks and identifying system weaknesses. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and clear communication help Penetration Testers document findings and collaborate with teams. These skills and qualities are vital for identifying security gaps, reducing organizational risk, and ensuring robust defense against evolving cyber threats.
More about Penetration Testers jobs
What cities are hiring for Penetration Testers jobs? Cities with the most Penetration Testers job openings:
What states have the most Penetration Testers jobs? States with the most job openings for Penetration Testers jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Penetration Testers jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Penetration Testers jobs are:
- Web Penetration Testing
- Penetration Testing Engineer
- Overnight Cybersecurity Penetration Tester
- Temporary Cybersecurity Penetration Tester
- Ethical Penetration Testing
- Security Penetration Testing
- Overnight International Penetration Tester
- Entry Level Cybersecurity Penetration Tester
- Penetration Tester Ethical Hacker Redlens Infosec
- Senior International Penetration Tester
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Posted 28 days ago
Job description
Penetration testers shall be responsible for identifying network vulnerabilities in target systems and recommending defensive measures to defend against possible attack by an adversary. Qualifications Shall have a minimum of nine (9) years of penetration testing experience; or a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics or similar technical major and five (5) years penetration testing experience; or a Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics or similar technical major with an emphasis on penetration testing and two (2) years of penetration testing experience. In addition, the individual shall have demonstrated ability and/or experience in the following areas: • Tester using tools such as nmap, nessus, dsniff, libnet, netcat, and network sniffers and fuzzers.
• Exploit identified vulnerabilities. • Develop methods to defend against identified vulnerabilities and exploits.