Penetration Tester

Leidos Holding$131K — $237K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Active TS/SCI with Poly required
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field with 12 years of experience; or Master's degree with 10 years of experience
  • Proven experience in cyber security or related IT field
  • Hands-on experience with penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques
  • Expertise in vulnerability assessment and risk analysis of information systems
  • Solid understanding of cyber security principles across Linux, Windows, and virtual environments
  • Experience in designing and implementing IT security architecture

Responsibilities

  • Conduct in-depth penetration testing and ethical hacking for enterprise cyber security support
  • Identify, assess, and exploit risks within information systems
  • Document risks and provide actionable data to inform strategic decisions
  • Create and document testing plans and procedures for penetration testing
  • Analyze vulnerabilities and recommend changes to reduce identified risks
  • Lead or participate in technical meetings and briefings for senior management
  • Document and track action items from technical discussions and analysis

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs
  • Retirement savings options with company match
  • Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements and work-life balance initiatives
  • Collaborative and innovative workplace culture
Full Job Description

Leidos is seeking a Penetration Tester to support an enterprise IT program. We are looking for a cyber security professional to conduct penetration testing and ethical hacking, to target, assess, and exploit risk and vulnerabilities of information systems. This candidate is expected to have hands on penetration testing experience. In addition to technical skills, the candidate should be a self-starter who doesn’t always need to be provided direction. Critical thinking skills are a must; the Customer wants someone who can come up with ideas and investigate to validate those ideas as well as have a curiosity on the unknown and continuously push for outcomes.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • This team provides a highly technical and in-depth penetration testing service, in support of enterprise cyber security equities.  

  • The role requires support specializing in penetration testing and ethical hacking, to target, assess, and exploit risk and vulnerabilities of information systems. 

  • The intent is to provide senior decision makers with documented and actionable data to aid in making strategic investment decisions. 

  • The team will document all identified system risks, planned test procedures, and results; perform analyses of vulnerabilities identified during testing; and review program-level documentation (e.g., requirements specification, system architecture, design documents, test plans, security plans, etc.).

  • They will recommend changes to program-level documentation with an eye to reducing system vulnerabilities, create and document penetration testing plans and procedures, and approved testing plans and procedures to conduct hands-on penetration testing.

  • The team will also analyze test results, document risks, and recommend countermeasures to uncovered risks; participate or lead technical exchange meetings and application review boards; document action items and results from technical exchange meetings and application review boards; and brief management on the status of action items and results of activities.

Basic Qualifications

  • Must have an active TS/SCI with Poly to be considered

  • Must have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or other related scientific or technical discipline and at least 12 years of relatable experience OR Masters in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or other related scientific or technical discipline and at least 10 years of relatable experience.

  • Experience in cyber security or related IT field

  • Experience with cyber penetration testing

  • Experience applying computer attack methods and system exploitation techniques

  • Working knowledge of cyber security principles for Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms

  • Experience designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture

  • Experience performing network security analysis

  • Experience analyzing network architectures

  • Experience using network management tools

  • Experience leveraging adversarial tactics to conduct hands-on security testing

  • Experience developing risk management methodologies

  • Experience analyzing test results to develop risk and threat mitigation plans

  • Experience testing or reviewing system configuration, development, and design specifically around enterprise systems and hypervisors

  • Experience designing, testing, or implementing complex Windows installations


Preferred Qualifications

Experience participating in public and private information security groups and organizations
Experience communicating vulnerability results and risk posture to senior executives
Experience researching, evaluating, and developing security policies and guidance
Experience performing complex technical tasks with minimal direction



Original Posting:
June 26, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

Join the Team

Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

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Prepare for Your Interview

To prepare for an interview at Leidos Holding, candidates should familiarize themselves with the company's missions and values, update their resumes, and be ready to discuss how their background and skills align with the position they are applying for.

Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

Explore Leidos Holding Jobs and Careers

Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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