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Remote Penetration Tester Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Product Security Lead- Hybrid, Cary, North Carolina or Remote in EST time zone We're a ... Background in penetration testing leadership, offensive security, or red team operations.

AppSec Sales Engineer - East

Raleigh, NC · Remote

$57 - $76.25/hr

Deliver world-class platform presentations and demos focused on Application Security Testing and ... Work Location * Remote role, strong preference for Raleigh area What You Will Have At Harness

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Remote Penetration Tester information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$21.9K

$116.5K

$163.8K

How much do remote penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote penetration tester in Raleigh, NC is $116,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $137,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a remote penetration tester typically collaborate with in-house IT and security teams during an engagement?

Remote penetration testers often work closely with in-house IT and security teams through virtual meetings, secure communication platforms, and shared documentation. They coordinate to define testing scopes, clarify network boundaries, and discuss any findings in real time. Regular check-ins and status updates ensure transparency and alignment throughout the engagement. This collaborative approach helps address vulnerabilities promptly and fosters knowledge sharing between the remote tester and the organization’s internal teams.

How to make $1000 a week remotely?

A remote penetration tester can earn $1000 or more weekly by completing freelance security assessments, bug bounty programs, or consulting for clients. Building a strong skill set in cybersecurity tools, obtaining relevant certifications, and establishing a reliable client base are essential for consistent high earnings in this field.

How much do remote penetration testers make?

Remote penetration testers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects. Senior professionals with certifications like OSCP or CISSP and strong skills in tools such as Kali Linux or Metasploit can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand industries.

Can you work remotely as a penetration tester?

Yes, remote penetration testing is common in the cybersecurity industry. Many organizations hire penetration testers to perform assessments remotely using tools like VPNs, remote desktop, and security testing software, often requiring strong technical skills and certifications such as OSCP or CEH.

Will pentesters be replaced by AI?

Remote penetration testers perform manual security assessments that require critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of complex systems, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist in automating certain tasks like vulnerability scanning, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results and developing effective security strategies.

What is the difference between Remote Penetration Tester vs Remote Security Analyst?

AspectRemote Penetration TesterRemote Security Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCISSP, Security+
Work EnvironmentConducts simulated attacks, often independently or in teamsMonitors security systems, analyzes threats, and implements defenses
Employer & Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, consulting companies, large enterprisesCorporate IT departments, government agencies, financial institutions

Remote Penetration Testers focus on identifying vulnerabilities through simulated attacks, requiring offensive skills and certifications like OSCP or CEH. Remote Security Analysts monitor and defend networks, emphasizing defensive skills and certifications like CISSP. While both roles work remotely in cybersecurity, their core responsibilities and skill sets differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Penetration Tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Penetration Tester, you need strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles, network protocols, and operating systems, often supported by certifications like OSCP, CEH, or CISSP. Familiarity with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, as well as secure remote collaboration platforms, is essential. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear written communication skills help you document findings and collaborate with clients and teams remotely. These competencies ensure you can effectively identify vulnerabilities, communicate risks, and help organizations strengthen their security posture from any location.

What Is the Job of a Remote Penetration Tester?

Remote penetration testers attempt to hack into an application, network, or computer to assess its security. Instead of working in the office, remote penetration testers complete their tasks from home or another location outside of the office with internet connectivity. As a remote penetration tester, you discuss the security concerns your client may have about their current computer system and develop ways to infiltrate the security of a network or computer hardware using the internet as a pathway. Other job duties may include documenting how you broke through a company's network security and providing recommendations for augmenting the protection of company files. Because of their hacking expertise, some remote penetration testers may be called in to help investigate cyber crimes in criminal cases.

What is a Remote Penetration Tester?

A Remote Penetration Tester is a cybersecurity professional who evaluates the security of computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating cyberattacks from a remote location. Their goal is to identify vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit and to provide recommendations for strengthening security. Working remotely, they use specialized tools and techniques to conduct assessments without being physically present at the client’s site. This role often involves preparing detailed reports and collaborating with IT teams to remediate identified risks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Tester jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Penetration Tester jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
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Infographic showing various Remote Penetration Tester job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,547 per year, or $56 per hour.
Application Penetration Testing Specialist (Remote)

Application Penetration Testing Specialist (Remote)

First Citizens Bank

Raleigh, NC • On-site, Remote

$114K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


First Citizens Bank rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 170 rated banks


Job description

Overview

This position ensures the technological and digital security of the Bank. The tester will identify exposure to cyber threats, security risks, and unauthorized access and assist with mitigation guidance. The tester will assess organizational networks, applications, or systems for potential vulnerabilities. The tester will maintain knowledge of industry practices, technology, and evolving threats to enhance defenses for the Bank's information systems and resources.

The Pentester must be able to plan, coordinate, communicate, track, and conduct penetration testing assessments on the organization’s applications, aid in the coordination of additional testing through third-party vendors, and may lead other associates in the work group acting as lead tester. The selected candidate is welcome to work remotely and/or from a corporate office location.

Remote eligible.


Responsibilities
  • Plan and conduct application penetration tests of complex computer systems from a remote testing location
  • Coordinate third-party vendor testing
  • Analyze and document test results in the format and level of detail dictated by current procedures
  • Can convey highly technical information in a manner that can be understood and appreciated by Application Owners and other stakeholders
  • Track vulnerabilities and metrics
  • Coordinate multiple projects/assignments simultaneously and accurately, and deliver results in a timely manner
  • Stay current on new tools, TTPs, vulnerabilities, and emerging threats
  • Aid in defining and documenting Pentest Processes

#LI-IK1 


Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree and 4 years of experience in Systems Engineering, Network, or Information Security OR High School Diploma or GED and 8 years of experience in Systems Engineering, Network, or Information Security

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and 4 or more years of experience in systems engineering, network security, or information security OR High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of experience in application penetration testing, systems engineering, network security, or information security
  • Expertise in application penetration testing techniques with and without scanners
  • Demonstrated expertise in:
    • Testing web applications and databases
    • System development life cycle
    • Network administration
    • Cloud penetration testing
    • Linux and Windows
    • Kali Linux tools, Burp Suite, and other pentest tools
    • Experience with pentesting frameworks such as OWASP and PTES
    • Jira and Confluence
    • Analysis and development of professional reports
    • Knowledge of the Secure System Development Lifecycle
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively balance and manage multiple priorities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
  • Preferred but not required: OSWE, GPEN, GWAPT, or other equal certifications

This job posting is expected to remain active for 30 days from the initial posting date listed above. If it is necessary to extend this deadline, the posting will remain active as appropriate. Job postings may come down early due to business need or a high volume of applicants.

The base pay for this position is generally between $114,000 and $150,000. Actual starting base pay will be determined based on skills, experience, location, and other non-discriminatory factors permitted by law. For some roles, total compensation may also include variable incentives, bonuses, benefits, and/or other awards as outlined in the offer of employment.

Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at https://jobs.firstcitizens.com/benefits.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree and 4 years of experience in Systems Engineering, Network, or Information Security OR High School Diploma or GED and 8 years of experience in Systems Engineering, Network, or Information Security

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and 4 or more years of experience in systems engineering, network security, or information security OR High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of experience in application penetration testing, systems engineering, network security, or information security
  • Expertise in application penetration testing techniques with and without scanners
  • Demonstrated expertise in:
    • Testing web applications and databases
    • System development life cycle
    • Network administration
    • Cloud penetration testing
    • Linux and Windows
    • Kali Linux tools, Burp Suite, and other pentest tools
    • Experience with pentesting frameworks such as OWASP and PTES
    • Jira and Confluence
    • Analysis and development of professional reports
    • Knowledge of the Secure System Development Lifecycle
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively balance and manage multiple priorities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
  • Preferred but not required: OSWE, GPEN, GWAPT, or other equal certifications

This job posting is expected to remain active for 30 days from the initial posting date listed above. If it is necessary to extend this deadline, the posting will remain active as appropriate. Job postings may come down early due to business need or a high volume of applicants.

The base pay for this position is generally between $114,000 and $150,000. Actual starting base pay will be determined based on skills, experience, location, and other non-discriminatory factors permitted by law. For some roles, total compensation may also include variable incentives, bonuses, benefits, and/or other awards as outlined in the offer of employment.

Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at https://jobs.firstcitizens.com/benefits.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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