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Remote Penetration Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Penetration Tester

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $145K/yr

At Zelvin, penetration testing is not about generating a list of vulnerabilities. Our testers think ... What We Offer · Remote work environment · Unlimited paid time off (Policy Guided) · Continuing ...

New

Be Seen First

Penetration Tester

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $145K/yr

At Zelvin, penetration testing is not about generating a list of vulnerabilities. Our testers think ... What We Offer · Remote work environment · Unlimited paid time off (Policy Guided) · Continuing ...

New

Role Description Penetration Tester (Mid-Senior) Full-Time Remote (US) As a penetration tester on BreachLock's US Strategic delivery team, you'll execute manual, methodology-driven engagements across ...

Penetration Tester

Plano, TX · Remote

$60 - $70/hr

This is a remote, 6+ month contract-to-hire position. COMP : Up to $70/HR depending on candidate ... Conduct internal/external penetration testing, web application, API, and cloud security assessments ...

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$86K - $198K/yr

Remote Work: No Job Number: R0236401 Location: Herndon,VA,US Share job via: Share Penetration Tester The Opportunity: Conduct testing and analysis to identify vulnerabilities and potential threat ...

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Remote Penetration Testing information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do remote penetration testing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote penetration testing 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote penetration tester?

To thrive as a Remote Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of computer networks, cybersecurity principles, and common vulnerabilities, often supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and various operating systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear written communication skills help you effectively discover, document, and explain security findings to clients. These competencies are crucial for accurately identifying risks and helping organizations strengthen their security posture.

Is there a demand for remote penetration testing?

Remote penetration testing is in high demand as organizations seek cybersecurity professionals to identify vulnerabilities remotely. Skills in network security, ethical hacking, and familiarity with tools like Kali Linux and Metasploit are essential, and many companies prefer candidates with industry certifications such as OSCP or CEH.

What is the difference between Remote Penetration Testing vs Vulnerability Assessment Specialist?

AspectRemote Penetration TestingVulnerability Assessment Specialist
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENOSCP, CEH, CISSP
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksScanning, identifying vulnerabilities
Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, IT departmentsSecurity teams, consulting firms

Remote Penetration Testing involves actively exploiting vulnerabilities to assess security defenses, while Vulnerability Assessment Specialists focus on identifying and prioritizing security weaknesses without exploiting them. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments, but penetration testers perform more in-depth, simulated attack scenarios to evaluate security robustness.

What are some common challenges faced by remote penetration testers, and how can they be addressed?

Remote penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to physical infrastructure, varying levels of client preparedness, and potential communication barriers with on-site teams. To address these issues, it's important to establish clear communication channels, use secure remote access tools, and maintain detailed documentation of testing activities. Building strong relationships with client IT staff and staying up-to-date with remote testing best practices can also help ensure effective and successful engagements.

Can remote penetration testers work remotely?

Yes, remote penetration testers can work remotely, as the role primarily involves using specialized tools and techniques to assess cybersecurity defenses from any location. Many companies hire remote testers to perform assessments, provided they have the necessary skills, secure access, and appropriate certifications such as OSCP or CEH. Effective communication and familiarity with remote collaboration tools are also important for success in remote roles.

What is remote penetration testing?

Remote penetration testing is a security assessment process where cybersecurity professionals, also known as ethical hackers, attempt to find and exploit vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems, networks, or applications from an offsite location. This simulates a real-world cyberattack to help organizations identify and fix security weaknesses before malicious actors can exploit them. Remote penetration testing is often conducted over the internet, making it a flexible and efficient option for businesses to assess their security posture without requiring onsite visits.
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What states have the most Remote Penetration Testing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Remote Penetration Testing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Remote Penetration Testing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

We are seeking experienced penetration testing professionals to join our network of trusted consultants and support client engagements on an as-needed basis. Consultants will perform security assessments for organizations across a variety of industries, including commercial enterprises, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, government contractors, and regulated environments.
Engagements may include internal and external network penetration testing, web application testing, mobile application testing, wireless security assessments, social engineering exercises, and adversary simulation activities.
This opportunity is ideal for experienced cybersecurity professionals seeking flexible, project-based consulting work while maintaining independence and control of their schedule.
Requirements
  • Conduct authorized penetration testing activities against client environments.
  • Perform internal and external network penetration tests.
  • Execute web application, mobile application, wireless, and social engineering assessments as applicable.
  • Validate vulnerabilities and document security findings.
  • Prepare clear, professional reports with supporting evidence and remediation recommendations.
  • Participate in project kickoff, status, and findings review meetings as needed.
  • Adhere to established testing methodologies, quality standards, and project timelines.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality of client information and assessment results.

Preferred Areas of Expertise
Candidates may possess expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Internal Network Penetration Testing
  • External Network Penetration Testing
  • Active Directory Security Assessments
  • Web Application Penetration Testing
  • Mobile Application Penetration Testing
  • Wireless Security Testing
  • Social Engineering Assessments
  • Red Team / Adversary Simulation Exercises
  • Cloud Security Assessments

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum three years of hands-on penetration testing experience.
  • Experience performing client-facing security assessments.
  • Strong understanding of attack methodologies, exploitation techniques, and common security weaknesses.
  • Experience with industry-standard penetration testing tools and methodologies.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage assignments with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to execute confidentiality and independent contractor agreements.

Preferred Certifications
One or more of the following certifications is required:
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) / preferred
  • Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT)
  • GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
  • Offensive Security Web Expert (OSWE)
  • eLearnSecurity Web Application Penetration Tester (eWPT)
  • Certified Red Team Operator (CRTO)
  • Other relevant offensive security certifications

Engagement Model
  • Independent Contractor (1099)
  • Project-Based Assignments
  • Flexible Schedule
  • Primarily Remote
  • Occasional Travel May Be Required
  • Engagements may range from several days to multiple weeks depending on project scope

Desired Attributes
  • Professionalism and integrity
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Reliable project execution
  • Excellent client communication skills
  • Ability to translate technical findings into business-focused recommendations
  • Commitment to producing high-quality deliverables

Interested Consultants
We are continuously building a network of qualified penetration testing professionals for future project opportunities. Interested consultants are encouraged to submit the following information for consideration:
  • Current resume
  • Relevant certifications
  • Areas of specialization
  • Typical availability for project work
  • Desired hourly rate or project-based pricing information