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Security Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$80 - $100/hr

Die NK Networks & Services GmbH sucht einen Senior Penetration Tester OT Security, der kritische Systeme der Industrie schützt. Sie werden mit der Analyse von Produktionsnetzen und der ...

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Penetration Tester

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $145K/yr

Zelvin Security is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our Ethical Hacking Team and conduct hands-on ethical hacking engagements across networks, web applications, APIs, cloud platforms ...

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Penetration Tester

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$120K - $145K/yr

Zelvin Security is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to join our Ethical Hacking Team and conduct hands-on ethical hacking engagements across networks, web applications, APIs, cloud platforms ...

Company Description REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • 5+ years of experience in security applications and ... with application penetration testing. • Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with ...

This role requires a deep understanding of security principles, hacking techniques, and attack methodologies. The Penetration Tester will plan, execute, and document penetration tests, provide ...

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 5+ years of experience in security applications and systems Minimum of 5 years of Information Security Engineer/Consultant experience with application penetration testing.

SkyePoint Decisions is seeking a Penetration Tester to support the Diplomatic Security Cyber Mission (DSCM) program providing leading cyber and technology security experience to enable innovative ...

Penetration Tester

Herndon, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Find possible vulnerabilities while using penetration testing tools and techniques to ensure security of computer systems, applications, servers, and networks. Apply advanced consult ing skills or ...

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security ... Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders.

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

CCNA Cyber Ops, CCNA-Security, CEH, CFR, Cloud+, CySA+, GCIA, GCIH, GICSP, SCYBER, Security+ CE, SSCP * Demonstrated experience with Kali Linux. * Demonstrated penetration testing tools experience ...

Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security ... Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders.

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Security Penetration Tester information

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$22.5K

$119.9K

$168.5K

How much do security penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for security penetration tester 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 security penetration tester?

Security Penetration Testers, often called 'pen testers' or ethical hackers, are cybersecurity professionals who simulate cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, and applications. Their goal is to identify vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit. By conducting these controlled tests, they help organizations strengthen their security measures and protect sensitive information. Penetration testers document their findings and provide recommendations to improve defenses. This role requires a deep understanding of security tools, attack methodologies, and current cyber threats.

What are some common challenges security penetration testers face when working with client organizations?

Security Penetration Testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to systems due to strict security policies, incomplete or outdated documentation, and time constraints for testing. Additionally, communicating technical vulnerabilities in a way that is understandable to non-technical stakeholders can be demanding. Building trust with clients and ensuring that findings are addressed rather than overlooked are also important aspects of the role, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

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

To thrive as a Security Penetration Tester, you need a strong understanding of network security, vulnerability assessment, and ethical hacking, often supported by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, as well as knowledge of scripting languages, is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you identify vulnerabilities and clearly report findings. These skills are vital to proactively identifying and mitigating security risks, thereby protecting organizational assets from cyber threats.

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

AspectSecurity Penetration TesterVulnerability Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCISA, CISSP, GIAC
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksVulnerability assessment, reporting
Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, IT departmentsSecurity teams, compliance roles

While both roles focus on identifying security weaknesses, a Security Penetration Tester actively exploits vulnerabilities to test defenses, whereas a Vulnerability Analyst primarily assesses and reports on vulnerabilities without exploiting them. Both roles require similar certifications and are integral to cybersecurity teams, but their day-to-day tasks differ significantly.

Is a security penetration tester a good career?

A security penetration tester is a valuable cybersecurity professional who assesses systems for vulnerabilities using tools like Kali Linux and exploits techniques. The role offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for certification such as OSCP or CEH, making it a strong career choice for those interested in cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
More about Security Penetration Tester jobs

What states have the most Security Penetration Tester jobs?

States with the most job openings for Security Penetration Tester jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Security Penetration Tester jobs?

For Security Penetration Tester jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Security Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% 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.

Application Security-Penetration Tester

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Boston Government Services, LLC
Business Management Consulting • 51 - 200 employees

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Boston Government Services, LLC. (BGS) has created this Evergreen Talent Pool post for gathering qualified candidates for a position relating to Application Security-Penetration Tester to support our clients in various locations across the US. 


BGS is an engineering, technology, and security firm helping to advance missions of national importance for government programs, national laboratories, national security facilities, nuclear operations, and complex projects. We support clients at every stage, from strategic planning and program management to the execution of engineering and technical activities. We work to attract and retain the best talent because the best talent delivers the best results for our clients. Our capabilities are based on our experience in complex, secure, and highly regulated environments. We leverage our experience and capabilities to provide mission-driven solutions tuned to our client's mission needs and strategic direction.


Work that Matters. People that Matter More. At BGS, we believe meaningful work starts with great people. We foster a culture built on respect, collaboration, and accountability—where employees are empowered to contribute ideas, grow professionally, and make an impact. We care about our employees’ well-being through competitive benefits, clear expectations, and an environment that values both excellence and connection.


If you align with BGS’ company values and culture, we would love for you to explore opportunities to join our growing team by checking out the job description below!


Responsibilities: 

The Application Security-Penetration Tester conducts application, infrastructure, and network security testing to identify exploitable vulnerabilities, validate security controls, support risk reduction, and provide actionable recommendations for client systems.

  • Support development and maintenance of penetration testing rules of engagement, test plans, and testing documentation.
  • Conduct application, network, infrastructure, vulnerability, lateral movement, and related security testing activities.
  • Perform reconnaissance, enumeration, target assessment, vulnerability validation, exploitability analysis, and evidence collection.
  • Use approved commercial and open-source tools to identify and validate vulnerabilities.
  • Prepare draft and final penetration test reports with findings, evidence, access paths, risks, and recommendations.
  • Coordinate kickoff meetings, stakeholder approvals, debriefs, validation testing, and reporting timelines.
  • Identify systemic trends across findings and support security posture improvement recommendations.


Requirements: 

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent.
  • Experience conducting penetration tests, vulnerability assessments, application security testing, or technical security assessments.
  • Familiarity with ROE development, test planning, exploitability validation, vulnerability scanning, web application security, network testing, and report writing.
  • Knowledge of OWASP, NIST, CVSS, secure configuration, and common attack techniques.
  • Ability to communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Successful drug screening.
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security or clearance badge.


Preferred Qualifications: 

  • OSCP, GPEN, GWAPT, PenTest+, CEH, CISSP, or equivalent.


Location/Work Arrangement:

  • Schedule is full-time, Monday – Friday 40-hour week, 4/10’s, or 9/80’s and may require on call or overnight shifts depending on contract needs.
  • This position may be fully onsite or hybrid/remote depending on the needs of the specific contract.


Benefits:

BGS offers a competitive total compensation package to eligible employees. Benefits include Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, 401K, Long and Short-Term Disability.


Starting compensation for this role typical salary ranges between $170,167 – $200,196 annually is commensurate with experience relative to the position and may vary based on candidate geographical location.


EEO:

BGS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.


Exclusive Agreement Disclaimer:

BGS has standing contracts with federal agencies throughout the United States. We require an affirmative exclusive agreement to represent all candidates to our clients. By submitting this application, you are consenting to allow BGS to represent you as a candidate for the role in which you are applying.


Schedule is full-time, Monday – Friday 40-hour week, 4/10’s, or 9/80’s and may require on call or overnight shifts depending on contract needs.