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Penetration Testers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security ... Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders.

The role involves conducting penetration testing, managing projects, and leading Red Team engagements. Responsibilities : • Conducting continuous penetration testing methodologies. • Planning and ...

Responsibilities Bishop Fox is looking for experienced contract penetration testers with a primary focus in web application security and strong secondary expertise in cloud, mobile, source code ...

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security ... Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders.

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security ... Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders.

They are seeking a Penetration Tester II to conduct penetration testing and support government contracts, requiring an active Secret clearance. Responsibilities : • At least three (3) years of pen ...

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 ...

They are seeking a Penetration Tester III to conduct penetration testing and security assessments for government clients, requiring an active Secret clearance and a Bachelor's degree.

The Senior Penetration Tester will independently perform penetration testing of applications, systems and enclaves Identifies security flaws in computing platforms and applications and devise ...

They are seeking a Penetration Tester II to conduct penetration testing and support government contracts, requiring an active Secret clearance. Responsibilities : • At least three (3) years of pen ...

The Penetration Testing Lead will analyze vulnerabilities, identify gaps in IT security policies and configurations, and deliver actionable recommendations to reduce organizational cyber risk. This ...

They are seeking a Penetration Tester II to support a government contract and conduct various types of penetration tests, including Red Team engagements and IoT device testing. Responsibilities : • ...

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · On-site

$130K - $147K/yr

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 ...

Penetration Tester

Rensselaer, NY · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Key Responsibilities Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessment * Conduct penetration tests and vulnerability assessments for Java applications and infrastructure. * Identify security flaws in ...

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Penetration Testers information

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$168.5K

How much do penetration testers jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 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 does a penetration tester do?

A penetration tester, also known as an ethical hacker, evaluates the security of computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities. They use tools like vulnerability scanners and exploit frameworks, often hold certifications such as OSCP or CEH, and work in environments that require strong technical skills and knowledge of cybersecurity best practices.

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 continuous learning to stay current with evolving threats.

How much do penetration testers make?

Penetration testers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior or specialized testers with certifications like OSCP or CISSP can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a strong cybersecurity market.

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.

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:

Infographic showing various Penetration Testers job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview: CDT is looking for a Penetration Tester to This will be supporting a government customer onsite in Chantilly, VA. Candidates with OSCP certification are highly recommended to apply.
Clearance: An active Top Secret/SCI with CI poly is required.Candidates who do not meet these requirements will not be considered.
Responsibilities:
  • Conduct penetration testing that uses both active and passive capabilities to expose and exploit IA vulnerabilities.
  • Review and evaluate information systems and recommend changes to the Government that can improve information confidentiality, integrity and availability.
  • Responsible for performing security focused services to improve security posture.
  • Conduct test and evaluations of software, hardware, networks and applications.
  • Reviews of the documents to ensure completeness and compliance with the RMF process, ICD 503 requirements, and/or other applicable regulations.
Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma/GED, Associates Degree and 5 years of relevant work experience.
  • Bachelor's Degree and 3 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience in cyber security with a focus on red teaming, penetration testing, or threat hunting.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Strong understanding of network protocols and troubleshooting, server and workstation operating systems, exploits and vulnerabilities.
  • Strong working knowledge of common penetration tools, tactics, techniques, and procedures.
  • Experience with cloud environments.
  • Strong understanding of penetration testing methodologies (MITRE ATT&CK, OWASP).
  • Ability to incorporate threat intelligence data into attached or penetration testing scenarios.
  • Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills with a strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to read/write code using interpreted languages (Python, PHP, Ruby, etc.).
  • Experience with simulated/emulated environments and/or virtualization technologies.
  • Experience with orchestration tools and virtualization environments (Docker, Kubernetes, etc.).
  • Experience with industrial control systems deployment, security best practices, vulnerabilities, and penetration testing.
  • ICD 503 and the Government's certification and accreditation process.
  • Networks, computer components, system protocols, and COTS technology.
  • System methodologies including: client/server, web hosting, web content servers, policy servers, directory servers, firewalls, WAN, MAN, LAN, switches, and routers.
  • Software integration of COTS and Government Off-the-Shelf (GOTS) products.
  • Windows, Linux, Unix, and Mac OS X administration.
  • VMware, Xen, Hyper V and other virtualization platforms.
  • Configuring and supporting Windows, Linux, Unix, Mac OS, and other operating systems, VMware, Xen, Hyper V and other virtualization platforms.
  • Experience in Software engineering, program design and implementation, configuration management, system maintenance, integration testing, Information system engineering.
  • System certification activities and efforts related to system certification and accreditation.
  • Research, develop, and maintain knowledge of penetration testing tools, tactics, techniques, and procedures.
  • Research, development, integration, and distribution of information systems security tools and associated documentation
  • Security procedures for systems and software within area of expertise to ensure consistent security policy implementation.
  • Experience in technical project management.
  • Education relevant to computer engineering, information security, information management, cyber security, and/or computer science

Why Join Cyber Defense Technologies?
At CDT, we offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment where your expertise in Penetration Testing will help shape the future of cybersecurity and engineering solutions.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

CDT is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity employer making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
Apply Now:
If you are a proactive Penetration Tester and thrive in dynamic environments, we encourage you to apply and join the CDT team!
Salary Range: $90,000 - $130,000