Explore Penetration Tester Jobs

Penetration testers help organizations uncover and address security weaknesses before malicious attackers can exploit them. These professionals simulate real-world attacks against applications, networks, cloud environments, and systems, then explain their findings and recommend practical fixes. Explore vetted penetration tester opportunities on Ladders, including positions with compensation of $100,000 or more.

What Does a Penetration Tester Do?

Penetration testers plan and conduct authorized security assessments using a mix of technical tools and manual testing. They may test web applications, APIs, internal and external networks, wireless systems, cloud infrastructure, or mobile applications. After testing, they document evidence, assess risk, and work with development, IT, and security teams to prioritize remediation and verify that vulnerabilities have been resolved.

Skills and Qualifications

Employers commonly seek experience with operating systems, networking, scripting, and security testing methodologies. Familiarity with tools such as Burp Suite, Nmap, Metasploit, and vulnerability scanners can be valuable, alongside knowledge of secure software development and cloud security. Clear communication and report writing are essential: testers must translate technical findings into actionable guidance for both engineers and business stakeholders. Certifications such as OSCP, GPEN, or relevant cloud and application-security credentials may strengthen a candidate’s profile, though requirements vary by employer.

Career Paths and Work Environments

Penetration testers work in consulting firms, technology companies, financial services, healthcare, government, and other organizations with significant security needs. Related roles include red team operator, application security engineer, security consultant, vulnerability researcher, and penetration testing lead. With experience, professionals may move into security architecture, offensive security management, or broader cybersecurity leadership.

Find Penetration Tester Jobs on Ladders

Search Ladders for penetration tester jobs and related offensive security opportunities. Review role requirements, compare positions, and find vetted professional openings that match your experience and career goals, including jobs paying $100,000 or more.

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$95K - $115K *

Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing cyber defense by executing sophisticated penetration tests and evaluations for critical operational systems while contributing to strategic planning and tool...

1 month ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$86K - $138K *

Lead the charge in enhancing cybersecurity by conducting penetration tests, identifying vulnerabilities, and guiding remediation efforts to ensure compliance with NIST standards while collaborating wi...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$86K - $138K *

Transform security measures by leading penetration tests, identifying vulnerabilities, and recommending solutions to enhance system integrity. Collaborate with teams to maintain infrastructure and dev...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$120K - $160K *

Drive impactful cybersecurity solutions by executing advanced penetration tests, managing engagements, and providing strategic guidance on security architecture, while fostering team collaboration and...

Texas, USRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Transform cybersecurity practices by delivering high-quality penetration tests, managing engagements, and providing strategic guidance on security architecture. Collaborate with teams to enhance mobil...

Texas, USRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$100K - $120K *

Innovate your career with hands-on web and mobile application penetration testing, ethical hacking, and strategic cybersecurity guidance. Collaborate with teams to enhance security practices and deliv...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$90K - $140K *

Transform security assessments by leading hardware penetration tests on embedded and IoT devices. Collaborate with clients to identify vulnerabilities and enhance their security posture through hands...

CanadaRemote

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$130K - $165K *

Shape the future of cybersecurity by identifying and resolving vulnerabilities across applications and environments. Collaborate with teams to enhance security measures and contribute to a public bug...

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$130K - $165K *

Lead penetration testing efforts to enhance security across applications and infrastructure. Collaborate with teams to identify vulnerabilities, validate findings, and promote security awareness, cont...

Austin, TXRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$80K - $120K *

Empower the future of cybersecurity by conducting penetration testing on web and mobile applications. Collaborate with a skilled team to identify vulnerabilities and enhance security measures, ensurin...

Florida, USRemote

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$90K - $120K *

Drive impactful security assessments by planning and executing infrastructure penetration tests, cloud security evaluations, and adversary simulations. Collaborate with teams to enhance methodologies...

CanadaRemote

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Engineer robust security solutions by assessing web applications and APIs. Leverage your expertise in OWASP and SANS frameworks to identify vulnerabilities, conduct thorough testing, and enhance secur...

United StatesRemote

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Champion security assessments by conducting penetration tests on network-connected devices, focusing on Intelligent Transportation Systems. Collaborate with teams to identify vulnerabilities and provi...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Drive security excellence by conducting comprehensive penetration testing, assessing vulnerabilities, and providing actionable insights to enhance CBP information systems' security posture while ensur...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$80K - $120K *

Champion security assessments of embedded and IoT devices, leveraging your expertise in hardware penetration testing and firmware analysis to enhance client security posture and deliver actionable ins...

Texas, USRemote

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$103K - $173K *

Drive the evolution of offensive security by implementing advanced penetration testing strategies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance security measures, and leveraging AI technologie...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Pharmaceuticals & Biotech

$110K - $130K *

Transform security landscapes by leading penetration testing efforts, identifying vulnerabilities, and providing actionable insights to clients. Collaborate with teams to enhance cybersecurity practic...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$175K - $212K *

Shape the future of cybersecurity by leveraging your expertise in penetration testing. Join a dedicated team to tackle mission-critical projects that enhance national security through innovative testi...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Technical Services

$90K - $130K *

Lead the charge in offensive security by executing infrastructure penetration tests and adversary simulations. Collaborate with clients to enhance security measures while continuously improving method...

Florida, USRemote

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$122K - $162K *

Oversee the scaling of a Continuous Adversarial Testing program, enhancing enterprise security through AI-enabled testing, vulnerability validation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to mi...

Mississauga, ONIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Pharmaceuticals & Biotech

$95K - $115K *

Engage your expertise to conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, enhancing security for complex systems. Collaborate with teams to identify risks and strengthen defenses against pot...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Education, Government & Non-Profit

$100K - $120K *

Join a dynamic cybersecurity team to conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, enhancing security for complex systems and networks. Utilize your technical expertise to identify risks...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Education, Government & Non-Profit

$143K - $183K *

Join a team that's redefining security testing for AI-driven software. As a Senior Penetration Tester, you'll identify vulnerabilities, enhance testing methodologies, and shape the future of secure AI...

RemoteRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$143K - $183K *

Shape the future of security testing by identifying vulnerabilities in AI-driven systems. Collaborate with engineers to enhance security protocols and tools, ensuring robust protection for innovative...

United StatesRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$110K - $130K *

Accelerate progress at cybersecurity by leading penetration testing engagements, assessing vulnerabilities, and delivering actionable insights to enhance security posture for high-value systems and en...

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is a penetration tester?question toggle

    A penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who conducts authorized, controlled testing to identify vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems, applications, networks, or cloud environments.

  • What skills do penetration tester jobs typically require?question toggle

    Commonly requested skills include networking and operating system fundamentals, scripting, vulnerability assessment, web application testing, security tools, and the ability to write clear reports and collaborate on remediation.

  • Do penetration testers need certifications?question toggle

    Certifications are not always required, but credentials such as OSCP or GPEN can demonstrate relevant skills. Requirements vary by employer, role, and level of experience.

  • Where do penetration testers work?question toggle

    Penetration testers work across industries, including technology, consulting, financial services, healthcare, and government. They may be employed in-house or provide security assessments to clients.

  • How can I find penetration tester jobs paying $100,000 or more?question toggle

    Use Ladders to explore vetted professional penetration tester and related cybersecurity openings, review each listing’s requirements and compensation details, and apply to roles aligned with your experience.