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Security Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$57.69 - $67.30/hr

Job Title Test Engineer Overview EverWatch is a government solutions company providing advanced ... You'll automate continuous security and performance testing and monitor the health of large data ...

As a test engineer on our team, you'll use your experience to work with engineers to evaluate ... You'll automate continuous security and performance testing and monitor the health of large data ...

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Security Test Engineer information

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$11K

$109.6K

$183.5K

How much do security test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for security test engineer in the United States is $109,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Security Test Engineer vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity Test EngineerSecurity Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, CISSP (preferred)CISSP, CISA, GIAC certifications
Work EnvironmentFocuses on testing security measures, vulnerability assessments, penetration testingMonitors security systems, analyzes threats, develops security policies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in cybersecurity firms, IT departments, software companiesCommon in financial institutions, government agencies, large corporations

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Security Test Engineers primarily conduct testing and vulnerability assessments to identify security flaws. Security Analysts monitor and analyze security threats, responding to incidents and developing security strategies. Both roles are essential for a comprehensive security posture but differ in their core responsibilities and daily tasks.

What does a security test engineer do?

A security test engineer evaluates computer systems, networks, and applications to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses. They design and execute security testing procedures, often using tools like penetration testing software, to ensure systems are protected against cyber threats and comply with security standards.

How does a Security Test Engineer typically collaborate with development and operations teams during a project?

Security Test Engineers work closely with both development and operations teams to integrate security practices throughout the software development lifecycle. They often participate in design reviews, provide input on secure coding practices, and coordinate with developers to remediate identified vulnerabilities. Additionally, they may run penetration tests or vulnerability scans and then work with operations to ensure any security controls or patches are properly implemented. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as Security Test Engineers help bridge the gap between security requirements and practical application.

Is 40 too old for cyber security?

Security Test Engineers can enter the cybersecurity field at any age, as experience, skills, and certifications like CISSP or CEH are often more important than age. Many professionals successfully transition into cybersecurity later in their careers, bringing valuable expertise and perspectives. Continuous learning and staying current with tools and threats are key to success regardless of age.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior security test engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in cybersecurity, penetration testing, or security architecture can reach annual salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, and working in competitive markets or large organizations.

What is a Security Test Engineer?

A Security Test Engineer is a professional who specializes in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities within software applications, networks, and systems. They design and execute tests to simulate cyberattacks and assess how well existing security measures protect against threats. Their work involves using tools for vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and security audits, as well as collaborating with development teams to recommend improvements. Security Test Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring an organization's digital assets remain secure against evolving cyber threats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Security Test Engineer, and why are they important?

Security Test Engineers require a solid background in cybersecurity, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Burp Suite, Metasploit, Nessus, and certifications like CEH or OSCP is typically necessary. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for identifying and explaining security risks. These competencies are essential to proactively detect vulnerabilities and ensure the robustness of critical systems against evolving cyber threats.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Security Test Engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Reaching a $500,000 salary usually requires senior roles such as security architects or executives, extensive expertise, and often involves leadership responsibilities or consulting work. High earnings in cybersecurity are possible but generally involve advanced skills, certifications like CISSP, and significant industry experience.
More about Security Test Engineer jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Security Test Engineer jobs? The top employers for Security Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Security Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Security Test Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Security Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,565 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Test Engineer (Hybrid) with Security Clearance

Nightwing

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets. Test Engineer Work at the forefront of cybersecurity research and development, delivering capabilities to protect national security. Our projects cover the spectrum of security technologies, hardware architecture, and operating systems; if it runs code, we're interested in its security. We see the impact we have on our nation's security each day. We ensure our engineers have the tools they need to excel and we recognize superb results. We're seeking a Test Engineer for our commercial product team, someone who breaks things, so our customers don't have to. You'll execute test plans, develop manual and automated tests, find bugs, and own test frameworks across our product portfolio. This role requires strong technical skills to validate software that secures systems at the lowest levels Security Clearance: Qualified applicants may be subject to a security investigation and must meet minimum qualifications for access to classified information. U.S. Citizenship is required. Qualified applicants must meet the requirements to obtain and maintain a Secret government security clearance. Required Skills Include: - Strong programming experience with Python - Bash and/or Batch scripting - Familiarity with C/C++ development - Software testing experience (functional, integration, system testing) - Test automation framework development and maintenance - Debugging and troubleshooting skills - Version control systems (Git) - Experience with Linux and/or Windows operating systems - Ability to write and execute detailed test plans - Documentation skills for test cases, bug reports, and test results - Experience with testing frameworks (Pytest, etc.) The product team works with a large array of technologies, tools, and concepts, so other valuable skills and experience include: - Performance and load testing - Security testing concepts and tools - Knowledge of OS internals (Linux and/or Windows) - Experience with build systems (Make, MSBuild, etc.) - Experience testing kernel-level or driver software - TPM and Secure Boot technologies - DOD System Security Engineering and standards (RMF, Cyber Resiliency, Anti-Tamper, etc.) - Virtualization technologies (QEMU, KVM, VMWare, VirtualBox, Hyper-V, etc.) - Container technologies (Docker, Podman, Kubernetes, etc.) - Experience with Jenkins, or similar development tools - Experience validating technical documentation as part of release process Our ideal candidate is someone with great technical and problem-solving skills, a motivated personality, meticulous attention to detail, and the mindset of "how can I break this?" Our Interviews: Our interviews are technical. Be prepared to tell us about your technical background and testing experience, as well as to work through some of our questions on a computer or whiteboard. We hope candidates find our questions to be thought provoking, but we don't ask brain teasers or tricks. This is a chance to have a dialog with our team, and we hope you will enjoy it! At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team. Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.