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Remote Penetration Tester Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cybersecurity Architect

Orange, CA · Remote

$85 - $90/hr

Architect and optimize secure remote access using solutions such as Palo Alto GlobalProtect with ... Experience with vulnerability testing and auditing at infrastructure or application level.

Remote Penetration Tester information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$23.5K

$125.1K

$175.8K

How much do remote penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote penetration tester in Riverside, CA is $125,082.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,200.00 and $147,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a remote penetration tester do?

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 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.

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.

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 popular job titles related to Remote Penetration Tester jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Remote Penetration Tester jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Penetration Tester jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Penetration Tester jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Remote Penetration Tester jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Remote Penetration Tester job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Penetration Tester job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 35% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 64% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,082 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

External Network Penetration Tester

Xtreme Solutions Inc

San Bernardino, CA • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Summary

Performs blind and intelligent penetration testing against internet-facing assets - web applications, firewalls, remote access (VPN/RDP), and internet postings - for all 47 County departments, attempting to obtain confidential/sensitive data using real-world threat intelligence-based techniques while evading detection.


Key Responsibilities

Conduct external network and web application penetration testing and vulnerability assessments per NIST SP 800-115 methodology.

Attempt to obtain ePHI, PII, financial data, and privileged communications from external sources without causing service disruption.

Document all findings with risk ratings, evidence, and remediation recommendations for the Assessment report.

Attempt to avoid detection and evade department response efforts during testing windows, as scoped.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

4+ years of hands-on external network / web application penetration testing experience.

Proficiency with industry-standard tools (Burp Suite, Nmap, Metasploit, or equivalent).

Strong understanding of OWASP Top 10 and common network attack vectors.


Preferred Qualifications

OSCP, GPEN, GWAPT, or CEH certification.

Experience testing government or healthcare-sector environments.


Travel

Fully remote; must remain within the continental United States.