The Red Team Operator will be responsible for planning and executing remote operations that emulate advanced threat actors, enhancing clients' detection and response capabilities through ...
The Red Team Operator will be responsible for planning and executing remote operations that emulate advanced threat actors, enhancing clients' detection and response capabilities through ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, mission-focused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report full ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, mission-focused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report full ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
R0243726 Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, mission-focused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
R0243726 Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, mission-focused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, missionfocused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report fullscope ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, missionfocused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report fullscope ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Share Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, mission-focused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report ...
Red Team Operator
Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Share Red Team Operator The Opportunity: You'll join a small, mission-focused team where adaptability, and a willingness to master new tradecraft are essential. You will plan, execute, and report ...
acuCyber is hiring a TS SCI cleared Red Team operator to support a broad range of efforts. Required Skills * Master's or Bachelor's degree in Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering or ...
acuCyber is hiring a TS SCI cleared Red Team operator to support a broad range of efforts. Required Skills * Master's or Bachelor's degree in Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering or ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Cleveland, OH · On-site
$98K - $126K/yr
The Red Team Operator is not a traditional penetration tester but instead focuses on full attack chain execution aligned to threat-informed scenarios, business risk, and known control gaps. This role ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Cleveland, OH · On-site
$98K - $126K/yr
The Red Team Operator is not a traditional penetration tester but instead focuses on full attack chain execution aligned to threat-informed scenarios, business risk, and known control gaps. This role ...
acuCyber is hiring a TS SCI cleared Red Team operator to support a broad range of efforts. Required Skills * Master's or Bachelor's degree in Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering or ...
acuCyber is hiring a TS SCI cleared Red Team operator to support a broad range of efforts. Required Skills * Master's or Bachelor's degree in Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering or ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Sterling, VA · On-site +1
Senior Red Team Operator Job Type: Full-time Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid) Clearance Requirements: Active TS clearance required Experience: 8+ years WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Sterling, VA · On-site +1
Senior Red Team Operator Job Type: Full-time Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid) Clearance Requirements: Active TS clearance required Experience: 8+ years WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Sterling, VA · On-site
Senior Red Team Operator Job Type: Full-time Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid) Clearance Requirements: Active TS clearance required Experience: 8+ years WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Sterling, VA · On-site
Senior Red Team Operator Job Type: Full-time Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid) Clearance Requirements: Active TS clearance required Experience: 8+ years WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Red Team Operator
Chicago, IL · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
Chicago, IL · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
Reston, VA · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
Reston, VA · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Huntsville, AL · On-site
Senior Red Team Operator * Job Type: Full-time * Location: Huntsville, AL - Customer Site * Clearance Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen. TS/SCI required WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Huntsville, AL · On-site
Senior Red Team Operator * Job Type: Full-time * Location: Huntsville, AL - Customer Site * Clearance Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen. TS/SCI required WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Huntsville, AL · On-site
Senior Red Team Operator * Job Type: Full-time * Location: Huntsville, AL - Customer Site * Clearance Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen. TS/SCI required WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Senior Red Team Operator
Huntsville, AL · On-site
Senior Red Team Operator * Job Type: Full-time * Location: Huntsville, AL - Customer Site * Clearance Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen. TS/SCI required WHAT YOU'LL DO We are seeking a skilled and ...
Red Team Operator
Boca Raton, FL · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
Boca Raton, FL · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
Boca Raton, FL · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
Boca Raton, FL · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
White Plains, NY · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator
White Plains, NY · On-site
The Red Teamer will primarily be responsible for conducting in-depth Threat Emulation exercises such as Red Team Operations, Purple Team Operations, and Penetration Tests to assess the security of ...
Red Team Operator information
See salary details
$10.82 - $12.50
1% of jobs
$12.50 - $14.18
3% of jobs
$14.18 - $15.87
9% of jobs
$16.77 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.87 - $17.55
21% of jobs
The median wage is $18.77 / hr.
$17.55 - $19.23
21% of jobs
$19.23 - $20.91
16% of jobs
$21.46 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.91 - $22.60
11% of jobs
$22.60 - $24.28
6% of jobs
$24.28 - $25.96
4% of jobs
$25.96 - $27.64
5% of jobs
$27.64 - $29.33
2% of jobs
$10
$20
$29
How much do red team operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for red team operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Red Team Operator vs Penetration Tester?
| Aspect | Red Team Operator | Penetration Tester |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | OSCP, CEH, GPEN | OSCP, CEH, GPEN |
| Work Environment | Simulates real-world attacks, often in complex, multi-layered scenarios | Focuses on identifying vulnerabilities through controlled testing |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used by security teams to assess organizational security posture | Hired by organizations or consulting firms to find security flaws |
Red Team Operators and Penetration Testers share similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments. However, Red Team Operators focus on simulating real-world, multi-faceted attacks to test defenses, while Penetration Testers typically identify specific vulnerabilities through targeted testing. Both roles are essential for comprehensive cybersecurity assessments.
What are some common challenges Red Team Operators face when simulating real-world cyber attacks within an organization?
Red Team Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating complex security controls, dealing with limited information about the target environment, and maintaining stealth to avoid detection by blue teams. They must balance realism with safety, ensuring that operations do not disrupt critical business functions. Collaboration with other security professionals is essential, especially during post-engagement debriefs to share findings and improve the organization's defenses. Managing time and scope within engagement constraints can also be a demanding aspect of the role.
What are Red Team Operators?
Red Team Operators are cybersecurity professionals who simulate real-world cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems, processes, and defenses. Their goal is to mimic the tactics, techniques, and procedures of actual adversaries to test an organization’s security posture. By doing so, they help organizations understand their weaknesses and improve their response capabilities. Red Team Operators often work closely with Blue Teams (defenders) to provide actionable insights and recommendations for strengthening security.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Red Team Operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Red Team Operator, you need a deep understanding of cybersecurity concepts, penetration testing methodologies, and knowledge of network and application security, often supported by certifications like OSCP or CEH. Proficiency with tools such as Metasploit, Cobalt Strike, Nmap, and Burp Suite is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for simulating adversarial attacks and reporting findings. These skills and qualities are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, improving organizational defenses, and ensuring resilient security postures.
More about Red Team Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Red Team Operator jobs? Cities with the most Red Team Operator job openings:
What states have the most Red Team Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Red Team Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Red Team Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Red Team Operator jobs are:
IBM rating
7.9
Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
105th of 202 rated software companies
Job description
Job Summary:
IBM Consulting is a leader in shaping hybrid cloud and AI journeys for clients across industries. The Red Team Operator will be responsible for planning and executing remote operations that emulate advanced threat actors, enhancing clients' detection and response capabilities through comprehensive adversary simulations.
Responsibilities:
• Manage full adversary simulation engagements from conception to report delivery
• Communicate effectively with team members and clients during the engagement
• Keeping current with the latest offensive security techniques
• Perform adversary simulation of real-world adversary Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) by leveraging frameworks such as MITRE ATT&CK™ and other sources of information
• Develop payloads, scripts and tools that weaponize new concepts for exploitation, evasion, and lateral movement
• Engage in an active evasion of defenders to avoid detection and progress engagements
• Coordinate with other Red Team operators to achieve the specified goals
• Deliver reporting and debriefs to defenders in manner that improves detection and response capabilities
• Perform/present technical security research
Qualifications:
Required:
• 3+ years of red teaming experience in a dedicated red team role
• 5+ years of system administration, network administration, or programming experience
• Ability to develop/modify exploits and payloads to avoid defensive countermeasures
• Understanding of real-world adversary operations methodologies, tactics, techniques, and procedures. In particular, the ability to apply frameworks (eg. MITRE ATT&CK™) in client engagements.
• Demonstrated history of published exploitation research
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good interpersonal, organizational, communications, and time management skills
• Experience coordinating security testing projects with multiple consultants
• Effective English writing skills.
Preferred:
• History of presenting at security conferences
• Track record in vulnerability research and CVE assignments
• Knowledge of Windows APIs
• Knowledge of EDR detection capabilities such as Carbon Black/Crowdstrike, etc. and associated evasion techniques for behavioral based alerting
• Demonstrated exploit, payload, or attack framework development experience
• Expert level skills in one of the following: Active Directory, Software Development, or Cloud Infrastructure
• Relevant certifications from organizations like Offensive Security (OSCP/OSCE), SANS (GPEN, GXPN, GWAPT), or CREST CSAT/CSAM or demonstrable equivalent skills
• Prior security consulting experience
Company:
IBM provides technology and consulting, including software, infrastructure systems, and cloud-based solutions. Founded in 1911, the company is headquartered in Armonk, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
IBM Consulting is a leader in shaping hybrid cloud and AI journeys for clients across industries. The Red Team Operator will be responsible for planning and executing remote operations that emulate advanced threat actors, enhancing clients' detection and response capabilities through comprehensive adversary simulations.
Responsibilities:
• Manage full adversary simulation engagements from conception to report delivery
• Communicate effectively with team members and clients during the engagement
• Keeping current with the latest offensive security techniques
• Perform adversary simulation of real-world adversary Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) by leveraging frameworks such as MITRE ATT&CK™ and other sources of information
• Develop payloads, scripts and tools that weaponize new concepts for exploitation, evasion, and lateral movement
• Engage in an active evasion of defenders to avoid detection and progress engagements
• Coordinate with other Red Team operators to achieve the specified goals
• Deliver reporting and debriefs to defenders in manner that improves detection and response capabilities
• Perform/present technical security research
Qualifications:
Required:
• 3+ years of red teaming experience in a dedicated red team role
• 5+ years of system administration, network administration, or programming experience
• Ability to develop/modify exploits and payloads to avoid defensive countermeasures
• Understanding of real-world adversary operations methodologies, tactics, techniques, and procedures. In particular, the ability to apply frameworks (eg. MITRE ATT&CK™) in client engagements.
• Demonstrated history of published exploitation research
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good interpersonal, organizational, communications, and time management skills
• Experience coordinating security testing projects with multiple consultants
• Effective English writing skills.
Preferred:
• History of presenting at security conferences
• Track record in vulnerability research and CVE assignments
• Knowledge of Windows APIs
• Knowledge of EDR detection capabilities such as Carbon Black/Crowdstrike, etc. and associated evasion techniques for behavioral based alerting
• Demonstrated exploit, payload, or attack framework development experience
• Expert level skills in one of the following: Active Directory, Software Development, or Cloud Infrastructure
• Relevant certifications from organizations like Offensive Security (OSCP/OSCE), SANS (GPEN, GXPN, GWAPT), or CREST CSAT/CSAM or demonstrable equivalent skills
• Prior security consulting experience
Company:
IBM provides technology and consulting, including software, infrastructure systems, and cloud-based solutions. Founded in 1911, the company is headquartered in Armonk, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
About IBM
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At IBM, work is more than a job - it's a calling: To build. To design. To code. To consult. To think along with clients and sell. To make markets. To invent. To collaborate. Not just to do something better, but to attempt things you've never thought possible. Are you ready to lead in this new era of technology and solve some of the world's most challenging problems? If so, lets talk.
Industry
It services
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Armonk, NY, US
Year founded
1911