1

Penetration Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Penetration Testing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$92K - $144K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Perform hands-on penetration testing with a primary focus on web applications and web APIs across homegrown and vendor systems, support testing of cloud, mobile, and internal systems. * Conduct ...

Participates in client penetration testing and vulnerability assessment engagements across external and internal networks, Active Directory, web applications, APIs, cloud platforms, and Microsoft 365 ...

Participates in client penetration testing and vulnerability assessment engagements across external and internal networks, Active Directory, web applications, APIs, cloud platforms, and Microsoft 365 ...

Lead Penetration Test Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Penetration Testing & Vulnerability Assessments Conduct comprehensive penetration testing of web applications, infrastructure, and cloud environments using both manual and automated techniques.

Lead Penetration Test Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Penetration Testing & Vulnerability Assessments Conduct comprehensive penetration testing of web applications, infrastructure, and cloud environments using both manual and automated techniques.

Senior Penetration Tester

Northbrook, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct web application penetration testing (covering OWASP Top 10, API security, authentication/authorization flaws, business logic vulnerabilities, and modern web frameworks). * Perform mobile ...

Senior Penetration Tester

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Senior Penetration Tester, you will lead technical engagements responsible for evaluating and ... UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software ...

Senior Penetration Tester

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Senior Penetration Tester, you will lead technical engagements responsible for evaluating and ... UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Penetration Testing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.2K

$123.5K

$173.6K

How much do penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration testing in Chicago, IL is $123,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,900.00 and $145,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is penetration testing?

Penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, is a security practice where professionals simulate cyberattacks on a computer system, network, or application to identify vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. The goal is to find and safely exploit weaknesses, assess the impact of potential attacks, and provide recommendations to improve security. Penetration testers use a variety of tools and techniques, often mirroring real-world attack methods, to thoroughly evaluate an organization’s defenses. It is a proactive approach to improving an organization's cybersecurity posture.

What are some common challenges faced by penetration testers during client engagements?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to information, time constraints, and complex network environments that can hinder thorough assessments. Additionally, balancing the need to simulate real-world attacks while ensuring no disruption to client operations requires careful planning and communication. Collaborating effectively with IT teams and clearly documenting findings are crucial for ensuring that vulnerabilities are properly understood and addressed.

What is the difference between Penetration Testing vs Vulnerability Assessment?

AspectPenetration TestingVulnerability Assessment
PurposeSimulate cyberattacks to identify exploitable vulnerabilitiesIdentify and prioritize security weaknesses
DepthIn-depth, targeted testingBroad, comprehensive scanning
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENOSCP, CEH, Security+
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksAutomated scans, reports

While both roles focus on security weaknesses, Penetration Testing involves actively exploiting vulnerabilities to assess real-world impact, whereas Vulnerability Assessment identifies potential issues for prioritization. Penetration Testing provides a deeper, more targeted security evaluation, making it essential for comprehensive security testing.

What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Testing jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Penetration Testing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Penetration Testing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,509 per year, or $59.4 per hour.

Senior Penetration Tester - Web & Hardware/IoT

Fairygodboss

Chicago, IL • On-site

$133 - $225/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

This position is also open in the following locations: New York, NY / Atlanta, FL / Plano, TX / Columbus, OH / McLean, VA / Wilmington, DE / Jersey City, NJ / Tampa, FL / Brooklyn, NY / Houston, TX / Washington, DC

Drive the security of critical banking applications, platforms, and connected devices through hands‑on offensive testing.

As an Assessments & Exercises Vice President in the Cybersecurity and Technology Controls organization, you will play a key role in safeguarding the firm's most vital assets. Your primary responsibility will be to plan, execute, and report on penetration tests targeting high‑impact applications, platforms, services, and – on a more limited basis – banking hardware and IoT endpoints (e.g., ATMs, Point of Sale devices, and other connected devices). Leveraging industry‑standard methodologies and advanced techniques, you will proactively identify vulnerabilities, collaborate with application owners to understand root causes, and guide effective remediation to strengthen the firm's security posture.

We are seeking candidates with a passion for offensive security, deep technical expertise in penetration testing, and a commitment to continuous learning and excellence.

Job responsibilities
  • Plan, scope, and execute penetration testing engagements across a variety of environments, including web applications, APIs, cloud platforms, infrastructure, thick‑client, and/or mobile applications (primary focus).
  • Perform security assessments of banking hardware and connected/IoT technologies (limited but expected), such as ATMs, Point of Sale (POS) devices, and other embedded endpoints.
  • Collect and validate pre‑requisites for each engagement, ensuring all necessary access, documentation, and approvals are in place (including lab/onsite testing logistics and device access where applicable).
  • Perform manual and automated testing to identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and security weaknesses, leveraging industry‑standard tools and custom scripts.
  • Document and communicate findings through comprehensive reports that include technical details, risk assessments, and actionable remediation recommendations.
  • Conduct peer reviews of penetration test reports to ensure accuracy, consistency, and quality of deliverables.
  • Collaborate with development, infrastructure, security, and device/product engineering teams to clarify findings, support remediation efforts, and provide subject‑matter expertise on offensive security.
  • Stay current with emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques by leveraging threat intelligence, security research, and participation in relevant industry groups.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of penetration testing methodologies, tools, and frameworks to enhance effectiveness and alignment with firm strategy and regulatory requirements.
Required qualifications, capabilities, and skills
  • 5+ years of hands‑on penetration testing experience in offensive security, with a proven track record of scoping, executing, and reporting on complex engagements.
  • Expertise in manual penetration testing of web, API, cloud (AWS/Azure/GCP), infrastructure, thick‑client, and/or mobile (Android/iOS) applications, including the use of industry‑standard tools (e.g., Burp Suite, Nmap, Metasploit, etc.).
  • Working knowledge of testing approaches for connected devices/IoT and purpose‑built banking devices (e.g., ATMs, POS), including common attack surfaces such as exposed services, remote administration paths, authentication/authorization, hardening gaps, and insecure configurations.
  • Strong understanding of security assessment methodologies such as OWASP Top Ten, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and other relevant standards.
  • Ability to identify and articulate systemic security issues related to threats, vulnerabilities, and risks, and provide clear, actionable recommendations for remediation.
  • Exceptional organizational and communication skills, including the ability to write detailed technical reports and present findings to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
  • Experience conducting peer reviews of penetration test reports and mentoring junior testers.
  • Continuous learner who keeps up with the latest offensive security trends, tools, and techniques.
Preferred qualifications, capabilities, and skills
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity practices, operational risk management, and incident response methodologies within the US financial services sector, including relevant regulations, threats, and risks.
  • Proficiency in penetration testing and security concepts for both Windows and Unix‑like operating systems.
  • Experience conducting security‑focused source code reviews (e.g., Python, Java, Rust).
  • Experience in reverse engineering thick‑client and mobile applications to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Experience assessing embedded systems / IoT devices in lab or onsite environments (e.g., device interface review, firmware/configuration analysis, and network/service exposure testing) relevant to ATM/POS ecosystems.
  • Relevant certifications such as OSWE, CREST (CRT, CCT), OSCP, OSCE, GXPN, GWAPT, GPEN, GMOB, or BSCP.
Compensation

JPMorganChase, one of the oldest financial institutions, offers innovative financial solutions to millions of consumers, small businesses and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands. Our history spans over 200 years and today we are a leader in investment banking, consumer and small business banking, commercial banking, financial transaction processing and asset management.

We offer a competitive total rewards package including base salary determined based on the role, experience, skill set and location. Those in eligible roles may receive commission‑based pay and/or discretionary incentive compensation, paid in the form of cash and/or forfeitable equity, awarded in recognition of individual achievements and contributions. We also offer a range of benefits and programs to meet employee needs, based on eligibility. These benefits include comprehensive health care coverage, on‑site health and wellness centers, a retirement savings plan, backup childcare, tuition reimbursement, mental health support, financial coaching and more. Additional details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

We recognize that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our global workforce are directly linked to our success. We are an equal‑opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants’ and employees’ religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. Visit our FAQs for more information about requesting an accommodation.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Veterans

Base Pay/Salary

Chicago, IL $133,000.00 - $225,000.00 / year; New York, NY $152,000.00 - $260,000.00 / year; Brooklyn, NY $152,000.00 - $260,000.00 / year; Washington, DC $152,000.00 - $260,000.00 / year; Jersey City, NJ $152,000.00 - $260,000.00 / year

#J-18808-Ljbffr