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Penetration Testing Government Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Senior Penetration Tester

Middletown, RI · On-site

$118K - $128K/yr

Overview AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national ... Penetration Testing: Plan, execute, and report on penetration tests and security assessments on ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Ogden, UT · On-site

... varied testing efforts against applications and networks for the federal government. Candidates may also be placed on a larger Red Team and be expected to develop a continuous campaign-based ...

JP Morgan Chase

Senior Penetration Tester

Tampa, FL · On-site

Plan, scope, and execute penetration testing engagements across a variety of environments ... government clients under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands. Our history spans over 200 years and ...

M9 Solutions

Penetration Tester II

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

M9 Solutions is dedicated to providing IT services and solutions to the Federal Government by ... Experience with continuous penetration testing methodologies. * Experience with planning and ...

JPMorganChase

Senior Penetration Tester

Tampa, FL

$152K - $260K/yr

Plan, scope, and execute penetration testing engagements across a variety of environments ... government clients under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands. Our history spans over 200 years and ...

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Penetration Testing Government information

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$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do penetration testing government jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration testing government 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 is penetration testing in government?

Penetration testing in government refers to authorized simulated cyberattacks on government systems, networks, or applications to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. These tests help government agencies strengthen their cybersecurity defenses, comply with regulations, and protect sensitive data. Penetration testers use a variety of tools and techniques to mimic real-world cyber threats, ensuring that security measures are effective and up to date.

What are some common challenges faced by penetration testers working in government environments?

Penetration testers in government settings often encounter unique challenges, such as navigating strict security protocols, handling sensitive or classified information, and complying with complex regulatory frameworks. They may also work within rigid change management processes, which can impact the speed and flexibility of testing activities. Collaboration with various departments is essential, as testers must communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders to ensure vulnerabilities are properly understood and remediated.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penetration Tester in a government setting, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penetration Tester in government, a deep understanding of network security, vulnerability assessment, and common attack methodologies is required, typically supported by a degree in cybersecurity or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit, Nmap, Burp Suite, and certifications such as OSCP, CEH, or CISSP are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear written and verbal communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital to effectively identify security weaknesses, communicate risks, and ensure the protection of sensitive government data and infrastructure.

What is the difference between Penetration Testing Government vs Penetration Testing Private Sector?

AspectPenetration Testing GovernmentPenetration Testing Private Sector
CredentialsCertifications like OSCP, CISSP, CEH often requiredSimilar certifications widely recognized, such as OSCP, CEH, CISSP
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, secure facilities, strict protocolsCorporate offices, consulting firms, diverse environments
Employer & Industry UsageFederal, state, or local government agenciesPrivate companies, cybersecurity firms, consulting agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles within government cybersecurityComparing government vs private sector penetration testing roles

Penetration Testing Government professionals focus on securing government systems within strict protocols, often requiring specific certifications and working in secure environments. Private sector penetration testers work with commercial clients, offering more diverse projects and flexible settings. Both roles demand similar skills and certifications but differ mainly in work environment and employer type.

More about Penetration Testing Government jobs
What cities are hiring for Penetration Testing Government jobs? Cities with the most Penetration Testing Government job openings:
What states have the most Penetration Testing Government jobs? States with the most job openings for Penetration Testing Government jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Penetration Testing Government jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Penetration Testing Government jobs are:
Penetration Testing Government jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Testing Government job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Senior Penetration Tester

Senior Penetration Tester

Accenture Federal Services

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Accenture Federal Services rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 451 rated business services

Job description

Job Summary:
Accenture Federal Services is dedicated to enhancing the security and efficiency of the US federal government. The Senior Penetration Tester will conduct extensive penetration tests on applications, networks, and systems, identifying vulnerabilities and providing recommendations for remediation while collaborating with cybersecurity teams to improve security posture.
Responsibilities:
• Conduct comprehensive penetration tests on applications, networks, and systems.
• Identify and exploit security vulnerabilities to assess risk, developing detailed reports on findings, and providing recommendations for remediation.
• Collaborate with other cybersecurity teams to improve the overall security posture and support incident response activities when necessary.
• Stay current with emerging threats and vulnerabilities to enhance testing techniques.
• Responsible for conducting security testing and vulnerability assessments.
• Perform various types of penetration tests, including network, web application, and social engineering assessments.
• Use both manual techniques and automated tools to identify vulnerabilities, and will assist in the development of remediation plans.
• Participate in the development and maintenance of penetration testing methodologies and tools.
• Contribute to the organization's threat intelligence efforts by sharing insights gained from penetration testing activities.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 8 years of experience conducting penetration tests and vulnerability assessments in large IT environments.
• Experience using automated/manual techniques and developing remediation plans
• Must meet DoD 8140 requirements
• Bachelor’s degree (or an additional 4 years of experience)
• Active TS/SCI clearance
Company:
Accenture Federal Services is a leading US federal services company and subsidiary of Accenture. Founded in 1989, the company is headquartered in Arlington, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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