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Penetration Testers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Endyna

Penetration Testing - SME

Mclean, VA · Remote

Mentor penetration testers * Validate technical findings Advanced Penetration Testing Lead and perform: * Red Team operations * Advanced exploitation * Cloud security testing * AI security testing

Endyna

Penetration Testing - SME

Mclean, VA · On-site

Mentor penetration testers * Validate technical findings Advanced Penetration Testing Lead and perform: * Red Team operations * Advanced exploitation * Cloud security testing * AI security testing

Feditc LLC

Penetration Testing - SME

Mclean, VA · On-site

Mentor penetration testers * Validate technical findings Advanced Penetration Testing Lead and perform: * Red Team operations * Advanced exploitation * Cloud security testing * AI security testing

New

Quzara LLC

Senior Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

Lead and mentor a team of penetration testers, providing guidance and sharing expertise * Carry out remote and on-site testing of client networks and infrastructure to expose security weaknesses

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

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 ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$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 ...

Peraton

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 ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$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 ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$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 ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$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 ...

Leidos

Penetration Tester Team Lead

Ashburn, VA · Hybrid

Responsible for managing the team of Penetration Testers, penetration tests, theschedulingand coordination ofpentests, * Lead and execute advanced penetration testing, purple team engagements, andred ...

Navstar

Penetration Tester Team Lead Jobs

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 ...

Quzara LLC

Senior Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

Lead and mentor a team of penetration testers, providing guidance and sharing expertise * Carry out remote and on-site testing of client networks and infrastructure to expose security weaknesses

Navstar

Penetration Tester

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site

$173K/yr

... testers! Embark on an exhilarating journey with us as you join a vibrant team dedicated to solving intricate, multi-disciplinary challenges across various fields. This is your chance to apply your ...

EnDyna

Penetration Testing - Mid-Level/Senior

Mclean, VA · On-site

... Testers to support the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Cyber Assessment Team. The successful candidate will conduct advanced penetration testing ...

New

CACI International, Inc.

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.

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Penetration Testers information

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$119.9K

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How much do penetration testers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 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.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Penetration testers perform manual security assessments that require critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of complex systems, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist in automating certain tasks like vulnerability scanning, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results and developing effective security strategies.

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.

How much does a penetration tester make?

Penetration testers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior roles or those with advanced skills in tools like Kali Linux or Metasploit can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand markets.

Is penetration tester a good career?

A penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who assesses computer systems and networks for vulnerabilities using tools like Kali Linux and Metasploit. The role offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization and certification, such as OSCP or CISSP. It requires strong technical skills, problem-solving ability, and ongoing learning to stay current with evolving threats.

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?

AspectPenetration TestersSecurity Analysts
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCISSP, Security+
Work EnvironmentSimulated attacks, offensive securityMonitoring, incident response
Employer & Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, IT departmentsCorporate, government, finance sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding offensive security rolesDefensive 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.

What do penetration testers do?

Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, evaluate the security of computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities. They use tools like vulnerability scanners and follow industry standards such as OSCP or CEH certifications to assess security defenses and recommend improvements.
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What cities are hiring for Penetration Testers jobs? Cities with the most Penetration Testers job openings:
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Penetration Testers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Testers job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Penetration Testing - SME

Penetration Testing - SME

Endyna

Mclean, VA • Remote

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Location: Remote / Hybrid / Travel as Required

Security Requirement:
Must be eligible to obtain and maintain an HHS Tier 4 High Risk Public Trust.

Position Summary

EnDyna is seeking a highly experienced Penetration Testing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide technical leadership supporting the HHS Office of Inspector General Cyber Assessment Team.

The SME will lead complex penetration testing engagements, provide technical consulting to Federal auditors, develop testing methodologies, mentor penetration testers, deliver cybersecurity training, and serve as a trusted advisor to Government leadership.

Primary Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

  • Lead penetration testing engagements
  • Develop attack strategies
  • Review Rules of Engagement
  • Provide technical oversight
  • Review testing methodologies
  • Ensure technical quality
  • Mentor penetration testers
  • Validate technical findings

Advanced Penetration Testing

Lead and perform:

  • Red Team operations
  • Advanced exploitation
  • Cloud security testing
  • AI security testing
  • Active Directory attacks
  • Wireless testing
  • Mobile security
  • Web application assessments
  • Social engineering assessments
  • Container security testing
  • Internal network assessments
  • External network assessments

Technical Consulting

Serve as cybersecurity advisor to OIG auditors by:

  • Providing technical guidance
  • Supporting complex audits
  • Evaluating security architectures
  • Reviewing vulnerability data
  • Advising on remediation strategies
  • Supporting Cyber Range activities

Reporting

Lead development of:

  • Executive briefings
  • OARS findings
  • Penetration test reports
  • Conclusions memoranda
  • Attack confirmation lists
  • Risk analyses
  • Technical recommendations

Training

Develop and deliver:

  • 4-5 day penetration testing courses
  • Hands-on laboratories
  • Live exploit demonstrations
  • Capstone exercises
  • Instructor coaching
  • Training materials
  • Student guides
  • Presentation slides

Technical Expertise

Demonstrated expertise in:

  • Offensive Security
  • Threat emulation
  • Adversary tactics
  • Cloud security
  • Active Directory
  • Application security
  • Network security
  • Secure development
  • Risk management
  • Federal cybersecurity

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's preferred
  • 10+ years of penetration testing experience
  • 5+ years leading technical teams
  • Experience supporting Federal agencies
  • Extensive report writing experience
  • Strong presentation skills

Highly Desired Certifications

One or more advanced certifications:

  • OSCE3
  • OSEP
  • OSEE
  • GXPN
  • GPEN
  • CISSP
  • GREM
  • CRTO
  • CARTP
  • CARTC

Preferred Experience

Experience with:

  • HHS
  • OIG
  • DHS
  • Federal Inspector General organizations
  • NIST SP 800-115
  • Federal auditing
  • Cyber Range environments
  • Offensive security consulting

Apply