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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Principal Software Engineer, Collaborative Web Platform
$175K - $219K *
Elevate engineering excellence by guiding technical strategy and best practices across teams. Lead architectural vision, ensure reliability and security, and foster collaboration to build a cutting-ed...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Cloud Infrastructure Security Engineer (Systems/Kernel)
$152K - $175K *
Champion the security of GPU cloud infrastructure by architecting solutions that ensure robust tenant isolation, securing systems from vulnerabilities, and implementing innovative code at the OS level...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$128K - $192K *
Develop strategic relationships with key accounts, driving revenue growth through effective solution selling and account management. Leverage industry knowledge to identify opportunities and ensure cu...
1 week ago
$140K - $211K *
Champion strategic sales initiatives by managing key accounts, leveraging technology to meet business goals, and fostering executive-level relationships to drive revenue growth and customer satisfacti...
1 week ago
$115K - $172K *
Join a team that's driving strategic sales in cyber security and networking. Leverage your expertise to manage key accounts, develop relationships, and achieve revenue goals while navigating complex b...
1 week ago
$128K - $192K *
Champion strategic account management by leveraging technology to drive business success. Build and maintain executive-level relationships while identifying growth opportunities and ensuring revenue t...
1 week ago
$140K - $211K *
Accelerate growth by managing key accounts, leveraging technology to meet business goals. Drive strategic relationships, identify opportunities, and ensure revenue targets are met while collaborating...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $110K *
Drive end-to-end payroll processes across multiple entities, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Manage domestic and international payroll, tax setups, and employee inquiries while building scalable sys...
Today
Senior Consulting Engineer Physical Security
$107K - $150K *
Engage with clients to design and implement advanced Physical Security Systems. Collaborate with top engineers on complex projects, ensuring high-quality solutions and customer satisfaction while mana...
1 week ago
Security and Compliance Manager
$115K - $135K *
Empower progress at the forefront of cybersecurity by managing security operations, ensuring compliance, and mitigating risks. Collaborate with teams to enhance security measures and protect sensitive...
3 days ago
$75K - $95K *
Explore a dynamic paralegal role supporting corporate legal initiatives. Collaborate with legal teams to manage documentation, compliance filings, and enhance governance practices, all within a fast-p...
Reposted yesterday
$63K - $111K *
Elevate project execution by supporting engineering and construction teams in delivering complex industrial infrastructure projects through technical coordination and quality assurance activities...
4 days ago
Principal Technical Marketing Engineer
$196K - $245K *
Join us to lead technical enablement and validation for our Zero Trust solutions. Leverage your networking expertise to enhance customer experience, drive sales readiness, and create impactful enablem...
4 weeks ago
Software Engineer, Infrastructure
$135K - $160K *
Drive the development and deployment of a cutting-edge control plane for identity and credential management, ensuring reliability and security in customer-hosted environments while collaborating with...
Today
$75K - $115K *
Empower your career by developing user-focused documentation for mission-critical systems. Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to create clear, accessible content that enhances user experience...
3 weeks ago
Solutions Architect - Security
$125K - $150K *
Champion a secure digital landscape by architecting innovative security solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design robust security infrastructures that align with customer business o...
4 weeks ago
$122K - $175K *
Elevate your career by joining our team as a Staff Threat Researcher, where you'll analyze complex cyber threats, develop detection methodologies, and enhance our defensive capabilities across diverse...
3 weeks ago
Technical Specialist- Chemistry and Analytics
$90K - $110K *
Elevate your career by providing pivotal technical support to enhance global consumer product services. Collaborate across teams to develop innovative solutions while ensuring regulatory compliance an...
3 weeks ago
Director, Production and Infrastructure Engineering
$240K - $290K *
Elevate your career by leading a dynamic engineering team focused on production and infrastructure. Drive performance, foster collaboration, and deliver innovative solutions while managing diverse tec...
Yesterday
Senior Platform Engineer (FedD202)
$148K - $201K *
Empower application teams by integrating, securing, and deploying software in Kubernetes environments. Collaborate across platforms to enhance CI/CD processes and ensure reliable operations, driving i...
2 weeks ago
$85K - $100K *
Drive the development of innovative web applications in a collaborative agile environment, ensuring high-quality delivery and performance tuning while adhering to best practices and standards. Join a...
5 days ago
Senior Software Engineer, Browser Extension
$120K - $145K *
Develop and enhance browser extension features that secure user experiences. Collaborate with product teams and implement best coding practices to optimize performance and usability, all while maintai...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$125K - $155K *
Join our dynamic team as a Senior Solutions Engineer, where you'll leverage your technical expertise to drive pre-sales activities, engage with clients, and deliver tailored solutions that enhance bus...
3 weeks ago
$143K - $200K *
Elevate your career by partnering with customers to solve complex security challenges. Leverage your technical expertise and sales acumen to drive impactful solutions and foster strong relationships w...
1 week ago
Mgr, Customer Success Engineering
$120K - $145K *
Lead the charge in driving customer success and product adoption by managing a team of Scale and Optimize Engineers. Foster innovation, enhance customer relationships, and ensure operational excellenc...
3 weeks ago
What is a penetration tester?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.