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Penetration Testing Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Minimum of 2 years with penetration testing experience. * Possess one of the following ... Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Senior Penetration Tester

$90K - $150K/yr

Performs application and network penetration testing and wireless security assessments. * Applies ... We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Minimum of 2 years with penetration testing experience. * Possess one of the following ... Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Minimum of 2 years with penetration testing experience. * Possess one of the following ... Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$95K - $112K/yr

Minimum of 2 years with penetration testing experience. * Possess one of the following ... Salary Range: $95,000-$112,000 The SkyePoint Decisions salary range for this position is a general ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Senior Penetration Tester

$90K - $150K/yr

Performs application and network penetration testing and wireless security assessments. * Applies ... We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Holds or is working toward penetration testing and offensive security certifications appropriate ... PingWind.com Salary Range 86K- 119K The pay range for this job is a general guideline only and not ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Holds or is working toward penetration testing and offensive security certifications appropriate ... PingWind.com Salary Range 86K- 119K The pay range for this job is a general guideline only and not ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Senior Penetration Tester

$90K - $150K/yr

Performs application and network penetration testing and wireless security assessments. * Applies ... We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $145K/yr

Dark Wolf is actively seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our innovative team. This ... pen testing certifications The salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $145,000.00 ...

Dark Wolf Solutions

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

Dark Wolf is actively seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our innovative team. This ... pen testing certifications The salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $145,000.00 ...

Leidos

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

This candidate is expected to have hands on penetration testing experience. In addition to ... salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to ...

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Penetration Testing Salary information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do penetration testing salary jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration testing salary 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.

Is Penetration Tester a good career?

A penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who assesses computer systems for vulnerabilities using tools like Kali Linux and exploits. The role offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization and certification, making it a strong career choice in cybersecurity.

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 cybersecurity principles, networking, ethical hacking methodologies, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Mastery of tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and knowledge of operating systems like Linux, as well as certifications like OSCP or CEH, are highly valued. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for translating technical findings into actionable recommendations. These abilities are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, safeguarding organizations, and clearly conveying risks to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What is the difference between Penetration Testing Salary vs Vulnerability Analyst Salary?

AspectPenetration Testing SalaryVulnerability Analyst Salary
Required CredentialsCertifications like OSCP, CEH, GPENCertifications like CISSP, GIAC, CEH
Work EnvironmentEngages in simulated attacks, penetration testsIdentifies and reports security vulnerabilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by security firms, IT departments, consultingUsed by security teams, risk management, compliance

Penetration Testing Salary and Vulnerability Analyst Salary share similar credentials and work environments but differ in focus. Penetration testers actively exploit vulnerabilities, while vulnerability analysts identify and assess them. Both roles are vital in cybersecurity and often overlap in skills and certifications.

Are pentesters in demand?

Penetration testers are in high demand due to increasing cybersecurity threats and the need for organizations to identify vulnerabilities. The role often requires skills in tools like Kali Linux and certifications such as OSCP, with job growth expected to remain strong in the cybersecurity field.

What is the average salary for a penetration tester?

The average salary for a penetration tester varies depending on experience, location, and industry. In the United States, entry-level penetration testers typically earn between $60,000 and $85,000 per year, while more experienced professionals can make $100,000 to $130,000 or more. Senior-level penetration testers and those with specialized certifications may command even higher salaries. Factors such as certifications, technical skills, and the size of the employer also play a significant role in compensation.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Penetration testers and cybersecurity professionals can potentially earn $500,000 annually, especially those in senior roles, with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working as consultants or in executive positions. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, such as CISSP or OSCP, and a strong track record in high-demand environments. However, such salaries are uncommon and typically reserved for top-tier experts or those in leadership roles within large organizations or consulting firms.

What are some common career advancement paths for professionals in penetration testing?

Professionals in penetration testing often advance by specializing in areas such as application security, red teaming, or cloud security, or by moving into leadership roles like security consultant, security architect, or team lead. Many also pursue certifications (such as OSCP or CISSP) to open up higher-level positions. Additionally, experienced penetration testers may transition into roles focused on security strategy, incident response, or even training and mentoring new testers. Career progression typically depends on a mix of technical expertise, hands-on experience, and ongoing learning.

Can you make 300k in cyber security?

Penetration testers and cybersecurity professionals can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications like CISSP or OSCP, and roles in high-paying industries or senior positions. Achieving this salary often requires specialized skills, a strong track record, and working in regions or companies that offer top compensation. Entry-level roles typically start lower, but salaries increase significantly with expertise and responsibility.
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What cities are hiring for Penetration Testing Salary jobs? Cities with the most Penetration Testing Salary job openings:
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Penetration Testing Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Testing Salary job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

Cyber Defense Technologies

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 12 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

Apply