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Penetration Testing Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Penetration Testing Intern information

See Washington salary details

$12

$23

$29

How much do penetration testing intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for penetration testing intern in Washington is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Penetration Testing Intern vs Penetration Tester?

AspectPenetration Testing InternPenetration Tester
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holds a related degree; may have basic certifications like CompTIA Security+Professional certifications like OSCP, CEH, or CISSP often required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, often part-time or internship programsFull-time, independent or team-based security assessments
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in testing, learning tools, supporting senior testersConducting security assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, reporting findings

In summary, a Penetration Testing Intern is an entry-level role focused on learning and supporting security testing activities, while a Penetration Tester is a professional responsible for executing comprehensive security assessments independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a penetration testing intern?

To thrive as a Penetration Testing Intern, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, cybersecurity principles, and basic programming or scripting skills, often supported by relevant coursework or certifications like CompTIA Security+. Familiarity with tools such as Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and vulnerability scanners is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns document findings and collaborate with security teams. These skills ensure interns can identify, analyze, and report vulnerabilities responsibly, contributing to the organization’s overall security posture.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a penetration testing intern?

As a Penetration Testing Intern, you can expect to assist with vulnerability assessments, help conduct penetration tests on web applications, networks, and systems, and support the documentation of findings. Your daily tasks may include researching exploits, running automated tools, analyzing security reports, and collaborating with senior testers to learn best practices. Interns often participate in team meetings, contribute to debriefings, and may even help develop proof-of-concept attacks under supervision, giving you hands-on experience in real-world security scenarios.

What does a penetration testing intern do?

A Penetration Testing Intern assists cybersecurity teams by helping to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. Their main goal is to simulate cyberattacks in a controlled environment to help organizations improve their security. Interns often work under the guidance of experienced professionals, learning how to use various tools and techniques to conduct tests, document findings, and suggest remediation. This role provides hands-on experience in ethical hacking and cybersecurity best practices.
What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Testing jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Penetration Testing jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Penetration Testing Intern jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Penetration Testing Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Penetration Testing Intern job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Internship, 45% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,914 per year, or $23 per hour.

DoD SkillBridge Intern (CNO Developer)

Cohere Technology Group LLC

Chantilly, VA • Remote

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Cohere is seeking applicants for our CNO Development SkillBridge program!
OFFICIAL APPLICATION LINKhttps://coheretechnology.applytojob.com/apply/SORZIOlpxs/DoD-SkillBridge-Intern-CNO-Developer
What is the DoD SkillBridge program?
The DoD SkillBridge Program is a transition opportunity that permits active duty service members to use up to 180 days of service to learn and train with registered industry partners at the end of their service contract. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition into a civilian workrole by participating in internship or apprenticeship-style learning opportunities that directly align with open positions. More information can be found at the following links regarding eligiblity and the authorization process:
https://skillbridge.osd.mil/military-members.htm
https://skillbridge.osd.mil/faq.htm
https://skillbridge.osd.mil/resources.htm#military-members
Cohere's SkillBridge Program
Have you ever been interested in topics such as coding, penetration testing, or exploitation?
Cohere's SkillBridge program elevates your skillsets for successful transition into CNO Developer roles. During your time as a participant, you will work on various projects to sharpen your coding abilities as well as deepen your understanding of the operating system and various security concepts. Successfully completing the program means that you will transition into CNO Developer positions at Cohere Technology where you will work on building solutions to solve cutting-edge cybersecurity problems.
Some of the topics you will learn include:
 
  • Programming/coding in C/C++, Assembly, and Python
  • Reverse Engineering and Binary Analysis
  • Operating System Concepts
  • Exploitation and Security Techniques
Administrative Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria in order to be eligible for our program:
 
  • Must be currently serving in an organization that allows participation in the SkillBridge program (US Military).
  • Must possess a current/active security clearance.
  • Must be willing to relocate to the DC/VA/MD/NJ metropolitan area upon completion of the program.
Skill Requirements
We consider applicants of any and all technical backgrounds and proficiency levels. If you have an interest in pursuing this opportunity, we encourage you to apply regardless of your current skillsets. It is also encouraged to submit an application as early as possible, even if service members are not close to their SkillBridge window. Mentoring can be provided well in advance to help prepare you for the program.
Preparation
The following criteria are optional examples that can help prepare applicants for the program. The examples listed below are not mandatory, and are also not an exhaustive list. Comparable material or criteria can also be completed to help prepare for the program.
 
  • College courses/degrees
    • Specializations in computer science, cybersecurity, electrical engineering, etc.
    • Classes involving programming/scripting
  • Certifications and commercial training
    • PEN-200 (OSCP), EXP-301 (OSED), EXP-401 (OSEE)
    • SANS SEC670, SANS SEC660 (GXPN), SANS SEC760, SANS FOR610 (GREM) SANS FOR710
  • Work experience
    • Developer / Programmer / Engineer
    • Red Team Operator / Penetration Tester / Cyberspace Operator
    • Malware Analyst / Reverse Engineer / Vulnerability Researcher
    • Threat Hunter / Computer Forensics / SOC Analyst / Cybersecurity Analyst
    • Systems Administrator / Technician
  • Military Specialities
    • MARINES: 1702, 1711, 1721, 1799, 0631, 0639, 0673, 2653
    • AIR FORCE: 17D, 17S, 1B4X1, 1D7X1, 1D7X5, 1N4X1, 7S0X1
    • NAVY: CWT, IT, CTN, CTI,
    • ARMY: 25D, 17A, 17B, 17C
    • SPACE FORCE: 5C0X1
    • COAST GUARD: CMS, ET, IT
  • Military Training
    • JCAC, CNODP
  • Programming
    • Familiarity with low-level languages such as C and Assembly
    • Familiarity with a scripting language such as Python

DISCLAIMER OF ENDORSEMENT: The information provided in this page is for informational purposes only and neither constitutes nor implies any endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of any entity, product, service, or organization by the Department of Defense SkillBridge program or any part of the Department of Defense.

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