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Penetration Testing Jobs in Waco, TX (NOW HIRING)

Senior Security Engineer

Waco, TX · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Background in penetration testing or red team work Working Conditions * Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals. Compensation and Equipment * Salary (TBD based on job ...

Senior Security Engineer

Waco, TX · Remote

$101K - $139K/yr

Background in penetration testing or red team work Working Conditions * Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals. Compensation and Equipment * Salary (TBD based on job ...

Senior Security Engineer

Waco, TX · Remote

$117K - $160K/yr

Background in penetration testing or red team work Working Conditions * Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals. Compensation and Equipment * Salary (TBD based on job ...

Penetration Testing information

See Waco, TX salary details

$20K

$106.4K

$149.6K

How much do penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for penetration testing in Waco, TX is $106,437.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,200.00 and $125,200.00 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.

Are penetration testers high 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.

Is penetration testing a good career?

Penetration testing is a growing cybersecurity field that involves identifying vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. It requires technical skills, knowledge of security tools, and often certifications like OSCP or CEH. The role offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for continuous learning, making it a viable career choice for those interested in cybersecurity.

What cities near Waco, TX are hiring for Penetration Testing jobs?

Cities near Waco, TX with the most Penetration Testing job openings:

Infographic showing various Penetration Testing job openings in Waco, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,437 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Texas Farm Bureau Insurance rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 315 rated insurance


Job description

The Voice of Texas Agriculture.
Company Name: Texas Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company | Department: Information Systems
This position is responsible for providing Data and User Security Access and controlling, maintaining, and monitoring security access to the computer infrastructure and data files. The Security Analyst III also supports security reporting for upper management and compliance requirements. The primary focus areas of this position are Enterprise Security Enforcement and Strategic Design.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILTIES AND AUTHORITY
Develop, implement, and review security policies, processes and controls.
Review application access provisioning in the Active Directory (AD) and Resource Access Control Facility (RACF) environments.
Build, generate, and review reports and alerts using security administration software.
Recommend, test, and evaluate new security technology.
Perform, administer, and manage penetration testing or vulnerability scans.
Analyze enterprise software and hardware acquisition requirements and provide objective advice on the integration of security considerations and requirements.
Gather feedback from end users to continue to improve security systems and procedures.
Design, analyze, and implement efficient security systems.
Verify the security of third-party vendors and collaborate with them to meet security requirements.
Conduct internal security audits.
Perform security breach analysis to determine root cause and recommend steps to close security gaps.
Develop, implement, and test enterprise incident response and disaster recovery plans.
Define and generate security reports for compliance and upper management.
Create and estimate task lists, projects, and timelines relevant to Enterprise projects.
Work and collaborate with other team members and IS teams to facilitate security related changes
Provide after-hours problem resolution as required.
Other duties as assigned.
Departmental Responsibilities:
Update and resolve incidents/requests/projects per established procedures.
Escalate problems to appropriate personnel, as needed.
Complete all training and assignments in a timely and effective manner.
Apply departmental standards and procedures to all assignments.
Adhere to all defined processes and procedures.
Effectively communicate with appropriate personnel.
Manage multiple projects and requests simultaneously.
Function effectively as a team lead.
Comply with the Certified Fleet Operator requirements of the Company Driving and Safety Policy.
MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree from accredited college or university in a network, computer, or management related field and proven experience in an information technology-related field.
Excellent oral and written communications skills.
Excellent organizational skills.
Excellent problem-solving abilities.
Ability and willingness to learn and extend skills.
Ability to interact with users and team members.
Excellent customer service skills.
Valid Texas driver's license and driving record at the time of hire which would not place the employee on probation or disqualify the employee from Certified Fleet Operator Status, under the Company Driving and Safety Policy.
Technical Skills:
  • Microsoft Office application software
  • Active Directory (AD)
  • Entra
  • Firewall Knowledge
  • Networking Knowledge

Preferred Technical Skills:
  • RACF
  • Powershell
  • Python
  • SQL knowledge

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Use of PC and other office equipment for over six (6) hours per day.
Extended periods of sitting and concentration.
Occasional bending, twisting, crouching, pulling, pushing, lifting, and moving items weighing up to 30 lbs.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Occasionally long, irregular hours.
Provide after-hours problem resolution when required.
Work to be conducted in office environment owned or leased by company.
Travel as required.
Texas Farm Bureau is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V).

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