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Professional Hacker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Security certifications, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) * Demonstrable expertise in penetration tests, vulnerability ...

Security certifications, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) * Demonstrable expertise in penetration tests, vulnerability ...

Minimum of 4 years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 3 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Denver, CO · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Denver, CO

$102K - $132K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $132K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Seattle, WA

$113K - $146K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Chicago, IL

$103K - $132K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Charlotte, NC

$97K - $126K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Jersey City, NJ

$104K - $134K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Minimum of 4 years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 3 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Boston, MA

$108K - $140K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Senior Manual Ethical Hacker

Washington, DC

$113K - $146K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 5 ...

Minimum of 4 years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 3 ...

Minimum of 4 years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 3 ...

Growth Hacker

Burbank, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Working closely with leadership and cross-functional teams, the Growth Hacker will oversee ... Experience in legal marketing, personal injury marketing, or professional services marketing.

Minimum of 4 years of professional pentesting, application security or ethical hacking experience, preferably in a large, complex, enterprise environment * Detailed technical knowledge in at least 3 ...

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Professional Hacker information

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How much do professional hacker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional hacker in the United States is $32.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $45.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Professional Hacker vs Ethical Hacker?

AspectProfessional HackerEthical Hacker
CredentialsOften includes certifications like CEH, OSCP, CISSPTypically holds certifications such as CEH, OSCP, or CISSP
Work EnvironmentWorks in both malicious and authorized security testing contextsOperates with permission to identify security vulnerabilities
Employer & Industry UsageHired by organizations or malicious actorsEmployed by companies or as independent consultants
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, skills, and certificationsDistinguishing ethical practices from malicious hacking

While both Professional Hackers and Ethical Hackers possess similar skills and certifications, their intentions and work environments differ. Professional Hackers may operate with malicious intent or in gray areas, whereas Ethical Hackers are authorized to test security systems legally. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and industry roles.

What are professional hackers?

Professional hackers, often referred to as ethical hackers or penetration testers, are cybersecurity experts who are hired to identify and fix vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. Unlike malicious hackers, professional hackers use their skills legally and ethically to help organizations improve their security. They simulate cyberattacks to find weaknesses before real attackers can exploit them, and then provide recommendations for strengthening defenses. This work is essential for protecting sensitive data and maintaining trust in digital systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Hacker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Hacker, you need expertise in network security, penetration testing, and a solid understanding of operating systems and programming, often supported by certifications like CEH or OSCP. Proficiency with tools such as Metasploit, Wireshark, Burp Suite, and common scripting languages is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical judgment are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are critical for identifying vulnerabilities, securing systems, and maintaining trust in cybersecurity environments.

How much do professional hackers make?

Professional hackers, often working as cybersecurity specialists or penetration testers, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Highly skilled or specialized professionals with advanced certifications like CEH or OSCP can earn higher salaries, especially in cybersecurity firms or large organizations.

What are some typical challenges faced by professional hackers when conducting penetration tests for clients?

Professional hackers, often known as ethical hackers or penetration testers, commonly encounter challenges such as limited access to information, strict time constraints, and the need to stay updated on rapidly evolving security threats. They must balance thoroughness with efficiency, ensuring they identify critical vulnerabilities without disrupting the client's systems. Clear communication with clients and IT teams is essential to define the scope of work and report findings effectively, making collaboration skills just as crucial as technical expertise.
What cities are hiring for Professional Hacker jobs? Cities with the most Professional Hacker job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hacker jobs? The most popular types of Hacker jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Hacker jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Hacker jobs include:
Infographic showing various Professional Hacker job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 3% As Needed, 74% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 55% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 42% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,128 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description
CERTIFIED ETHICAL HACKER
Location: Remote
About VikingCloud
VikingCloud is the leading Predict-to-Prevent cybersecurity and compliance company, offering businesses a single, integrated solution to make informed, predictive, and cost-effective risk mitigation decisions - faster. Powered by the Asgard Platformâ„¢, the industry's largest repository of anonymized cybersecurity and compliance event data, we continuously monitor and analyze over 6+ billion online events every day.
VikingCloud is the one-stop partner trusted by 4+ million customers to provide the predictive intelligence and competitive edge they need to stay one step ahead of cybersecurity and compliance disruptions to their business. Our 1,000 dedicated cybersecurity and compliance expert advisors understand that it's not just about technology. It's about transacting business and delivering an exceptional customer experience every day, without fail. That's the measurable value we deliver. And that's what we call, Business Uninterrupted.
This Position
VikingCloud is always looking for candidates seeking a Certified Ethical Hacker position to help us secure our clients' network against potential threats. You will be responsible for testing a vast array of global company networks, servers, and infrastructure to identify potential vulnerabilities.
As a Certified Ethical Hacker, you will be required to know how to use various network and cybersecurity tools and have an expert-level understanding of computer and network security. This will include an understanding of topics related to encryption and cryptography.
Responsibilities
  • Below are some of the main areas of responsibility a Certified Ethical hacker is expected to assume:
  • Ethical hacking and penetration testing
  • Vulnerability assessment
  • Malware analysis
  • Work with other penetration testers and information security analysts
  • Web application security
  • Social engineering
  • Database security
  • Reverse engineering
  • Network security
  • Threat modeling and risk assessment

Qualifications
Below are the qualifications expected of a certified ethical hacker:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology security, or related field
  • Security certifications, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • Demonstrable expertise in penetration tests, vulnerability assessment, and security monitoring
  • Proficiency with the OSI model, TCP/IP, HTTP, SSL, and wireless networking
  • Experience with common network infrastructure and security tools
  • Familiarity with web applications, including HTTP and SQL injection attacks
  • Knowledge of security testing methodologies in accordance with the EC-Council
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

PLEASE NOTE: We are always looking for strong candidates to reinforce the VikingCloud Cyber Threat Unit. While positions may not be currently open, please use this application to send us your resume so that we have it on file and can follow up as required by our customer demand. We will let you know when a position opens up that may fit your background.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation or opinion, medical condition, status as a veteran, and/or any other federal, state, or local protected class.