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Penetration Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gemini

Penetration Tester

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with automated penetration tools Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with manual penetration testing tools Demonstrated experience with ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an experienced Cyber Penetration Tester to become part of Peratons' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. Location: Northern VA; Hybrid - flex as long as person can ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

ASRC Federal Technology Solutions is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to lead advanced security assessments and contribute to the development and execution of penetration testing strategies.

Gemini

Penetration Tester

Charlotte, NC · On-site

... penetration testing. • Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with automated penetration tools • Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with manual penetration testing tools • ...

Peraton

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an experienced Cyber Penetration Tester to become part of Peratons' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. Location: Northern VA; Hybrid - flex as long as person can ...

SkyePoint Decisions

Penetration Tester

Arlington, VA

$95K - $112K/yr

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 ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

PingWind is focused on delivering outstanding services to the federal government, and they are seeking a Penetration Tester responsible for supporting authorized penetration testing and security ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · Hybrid

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

PingWind

Penetration Tester

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Holds or is working toward penetration testing and offensive security certifications appropriate for DoD environments, such as CEH, PenTest+, GPEN, OSCP, or equivalent DoD 8570/8140-approved ...

VTG

Penetration Tester

Aurora, CO

$150K - $195K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for multiple levels (Level 2, 3 & 4) of a Penetration Tester in Chantilly VA and Aurora CO. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Penetration Tester

Quantico, VA · On-site

The Cybersecurity Penetration Tester is a hands-on technical role responsible for conducting simulated attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be ...

asrcfh

Penetration Tester

Washington, DC · Hybrid

ASRC Federal Technology Solutions is seeking an experienced Penetration Tester to lead advanced security assessments and contribute to the development and execution of penetration testing strategies.

OCH Technologies LLC

Penetration Tester

Leesburg, VA · On-site

OCH Technologies is seeking a Penetration Tester to execute network, system, application, and specialized penetration tests against FAA infrastructure under the direction of the Penetration Testing ...

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$22.5K

$119.9K

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How much do penetration tester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 Does a Penetration Tester Do?

As a penetration tester, your job is to test the security of a network by attempting to hack into an application, system, or computer. Penetration testing can occur in a variety of ways, from physical interaction with the machine you’re trying to hack to attacks sent over the web. Aside from helping clients test for vulnerabilities, your job also includes explaining how you got in and providing recommendations for stopping others from repeating your actions. In some cases, you may be asked to help investigate cyber crimes or explain methods and techniques in criminal trials. Success in this job is often measured by how many security holes you find and close.

What are some common challenges penetration testers face during client engagements?

Penetration testers often encounter challenges such as limited access to information, strict time constraints, and navigating complex or legacy systems. Additionally, they must balance thorough testing with minimizing disruptions to client operations. Effective communication is crucial, as testers need to clearly document findings and explain technical vulnerabilities to non-technical stakeholders to ensure remediation efforts are understood and prioritized.

What are Penetration Testers?

Penetration Testers, also known as ethical hackers, are cybersecurity professionals who simulate cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, or applications to identify and address security vulnerabilities. Their work helps organizations discover weak points before malicious hackers can exploit them. Penetration testers use a variety of tools and techniques to mimic real-world threats and provide detailed reports with recommendations for improving security. They play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and integrity of an organization’s digital assets.

What is the difference between Penetration Tester vs Vulnerability Analyst?

AspectPenetration TesterVulnerability Analyst
CertificationsOSCP, CEH, GPENCVE, CISSP, GIAC
Work EnvironmentHands-on testing, simulated attacksVulnerability scanning, risk assessment
Employer & IndustryCybersecurity firms, IT departmentsSecurity teams, compliance agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding testing roles, skillsIdentifying vulnerabilities, analysis methods

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Penetration Tester actively exploits vulnerabilities to test security defenses, whereas a Vulnerability Analyst identifies and assesses weaknesses without exploiting them. Penetration Testers typically perform simulated attacks, requiring hands-on skills and certifications like OSCP or CEH. Vulnerability Analysts focus on scanning and reporting vulnerabilities, often working with tools like Nessus or Qualys. Both roles are essential for a comprehensive security strategy but differ in approach and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Penetration Tester, you need a solid understanding of networking, operating systems, cybersecurity principles, and typically hold certifications like OSCP or CEH. Proficiency with tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and Wireshark is crucial for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help Penetration Testers effectively document findings and convey risks to clients. These skills and qualities are vital for uncovering security weaknesses and helping organizations strengthen their defenses against cyber threats.
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penetration tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetration Tester job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,895 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Penetration Tester

Gemini

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Description

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.
Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with automated penetration tools
Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with manual penetration testing tools
Demonstrated experience with creating and communication of reports regarding web application vulnerabilities to various level of personnel within a large organization.

Qualifications


Minimum of 5 years of Information Security Engineer/Consultant experience with application penetration testing.
Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with automated penetration tools
Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience with manual penetration testing tools

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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