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Professional Penetration Test Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eliassen Group

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

... professional to plan and execute comprehensive security assessments across applications, systems ... Draft Rules of Engagement and test-specific penetration testing documentation for each engagement.

New

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Support the Red Cell Team by performing and leading penetration tests to assess the security of ... ISC2 Certified Information Security Professional (CISSP) * ISC2 Certified Cloud Security ...

Eliassen Group

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

... professional to plan and execute comprehensive security assessments across applications, systems ... Draft Rules of Engagement and test-specific penetration testing documentation for each engagement.

New

Barclays

Penetration Tester, AVP

Whippany, NJ

... penetration test findings, and remediation guidance. * Collaboration with stakeholders to ... Lead a team performing complex tasks, using well developed professional knowledge and skills to ...

Fortreum

Cleared Senior Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

... test * Mentor junior members of the penetration testing team, providing guidance, knowledge-sharing, and hands-on training to support their professional development and growth * Interface with ...

Doist

Cleared Senior Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$165 - $185/hr

... test * Mentor junior members of the penetration testing team, providing guidance, knowledge-sharing, and hands-on training to support their professional development and growth * Interface with ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester / Active Secret

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Support the Red Cell Team by performing and leading penetration tests to assess the security of ... ISC2 Certified Information Security Professional (CISSP) * ISC2 Certified Cloud Security ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProfessional Penetration Test Jobs

Professional Penetration Test information

See salary details

$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do professional penetration test jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional penetration test 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.

What is a professional penetration tester?

Professional penetration testers, often called 'pen testers,' are cybersecurity experts who simulate cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, or applications to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. Their job is to assess security defenses, uncover weaknesses, and provide recommendations for remediation. Penetration testers use a combination of automated tools and manual techniques, operating with permission from the organization to ensure ethical and legal compliance. Their work helps companies strengthen their security posture and protect sensitive information.

What are some common challenges professional penetration testers face when conducting assessments for clients?

Professional Penetration Testers often encounter challenges such as limited timeframes for comprehensive testing, varying levels of client preparedness, and restricted access to certain systems due to organizational policies. Additionally, clear communication with non-technical stakeholders can be essential to ensure findings are accurately understood and acted upon. Balancing thorough testing with minimal disruption to client operations is also a frequent consideration in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional penetration tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Penetration Tester, you need in-depth knowledge of networking, operating systems, security protocols, and common vulnerabilities, often supported by a degree in cybersecurity or computer science. Proficiency with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and certifications like OSCP or CEH are typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and clear communication help standout testers effectively assess systems and report findings. These skills ensure accurate vulnerability identification and effective communication with stakeholders to improve overall security posture.

What is the difference between Professional Penetration Test vs Ethical Hacker?

AspectProfessional Penetration TestEthical Hacker
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, CISSPOSCP, CEH, CISSP
Work EnvironmentConducted for organizations to identify vulnerabilitiesMay include bug bounty programs, security assessments
Employer & Industry UsageCompanies, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesSecurity firms, freelance, bug bounty platforms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, certifications, scopeSimilar skills, broader hacking activities

Both roles require similar certifications and work in cybersecurity environments, but a Professional Penetration Test typically refers to a formal, client-specific security assessment, while an Ethical Hacker may engage in broader hacking activities, including bug bounty programs. The penetration test is a structured process, whereas ethical hacking can be more exploratory.

What cities are hiring for Professional Penetration Test jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Penetration Test job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Test jobs?

The most popular types of Penetration Test jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Penetration Test jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Penetration Test jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Professional Penetration Test jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Professional Penetration Test jobs are:

Professional Penetration Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Penetration Test job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior Penetration Tester (WebApp and Network)

Rapid Strategy

Charlotte, NC • On-site, Remote

$50 - $65/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Rapid Strategy is seeking a Senior Penetration Test Consultant for both web apps and network. Rapid Strategy is an award-winning and  African-American owned small business providing cybersecurity services to the private and public sector. Based in Charlotte, NC, we support our clients across the North Carolina and DMV area. You can learn more about Rapid Strategy at www.RapidStrategy.io

The primary objective of the Penetration Tester is to simulate cyber attacks on web applications to identify security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. This role involves a combination of analytical skills, technical expertise, and creativity to simulate real-world hacking scenarios. 1099 and part-time positions are available as well. 

 Key Responsibilities:

  • Conducting thorough penetration tests on web applications to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Utilizing various penetration testing tools and methodologies to simulate cyber attacks.
  • Analyzing web applications for weaknesses and vulnerabilities using manual and automated methods.
  • Understanding and exploiting known web vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF), and others.
  • Preparing detailed reports on findings and providing recommendations for security improvements.
  • Collaborating with development teams to advise on security best practices.
  • Keeping abreast of the latest cybersecurity threats and testing methodologies.

 Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience
  • Industry certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT).
  • Strong understanding of web application technologies and protocols (HTTP/HTTPS, HTML, JavaScript, etc.).
  • Proficiency in using penetration testing tools like Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Metasploit, SQLMap, etc.
  • Experience with known exploits and their mitigation.
  • Ability to analyze and report on penetration testing outcomes effectively.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams.

 Desirable Skills:

  • Experience with programming/scripting languages such as Python, JavaScript, or Ruby.
  • Knowledge of network security and operating systems.
  • Familiarity with cloud environments and container technologies

This role will be primarily remote but may require travel.

1099 and part-time penetration testing roles available

 Please note that this position requires applicants to be U.S. citizens and based in the United States. Only individuals who meet these criteria will be considered for employment.

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