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.
$200K - $225K *
Transform the future of cloud commerce by leading the design and evolution of scalable, resilient systems that enhance platform reliability and drive innovation across teams and products...
6 days ago
$127K - $206K *
Empower customer success by leading strategic service delivery for major accounts. Drive adoption of security solutions, collaborate with C-suite leaders, and manage the entire services lifecycle to m...
5 days ago
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$140K - $180K *
Transform identity governance at scale by leading the SailPoint ISC platform. Drive strategy, architecture, and compliance across global operations while collaborating with cross-functional teams to e...
1 week ago
Senior Firmware Security Architect, Networking
$184K - $356K *
Contribute to enhancing security architecture for networking products, collaborating with firmware and hardware teams to identify vulnerabilities and implement robust security features that protect mi...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior Solutions Engineer - East
$134K - $197K *
The Senior Sales Engineer at Obsidian Security will drive and manage the technical evaluation stage of the sales process while mentoring the team. This role requires expertise in SaaS security challen...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior Technology Security Engineer
$103K - $164K *
Lead and innovate security solutions, assess risks, ensure compliance, and collaborate with stakeholders to enhance enterprise security frameworks in a dynamic environment...
4 weeks ago
Senior System Software Engineer - Security
$152K - $287K *
Champion security excellence by investigating vulnerabilities and enhancing Secure Development Lifecycle practices across data center software platforms, driving timely remediation and fostering colla...
Today
Strategic Partnerships Manager
$110K - $130K *
Lead strategic partnerships by engaging with crypto/AI builders, building a robust pipeline through outreach and relationship-building, and closing complex deals to position us as the preferred securi...
3 weeks ago
Business Development Representative - Cyber
$80K - $95K *
Engage in dynamic business development within the defense sector, identifying and nurturing new opportunities. Leverage strong communication skills and industry knowledge to build lasting relationship...
2 weeks ago
Senior GIS Developer - Spatial Data & Integration
$66K - $106K *
Champion the integration of marine and anadromous species data by leading the production of federal species range maps, ensuring compliance with established standards and facilitating collaboration wi...
3 weeks ago
Security Research Engineer, AI Safety and Security Engineering
$224K - $431K *
Advance security research at a high bar, validating vulnerabilities and creating reliable fixes while shaping rigorous engineering standards for critical AI Safety & Security initiatives...
Reposted 6 days ago
Staff Product Manager, Agentic Test Intelligence
$168K - $285K *
Lead the development of Test & Code Coverage capabilities, transforming complex challenges into actionable strategies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance software quality and streamlin...
1 week ago
Lead ServiceNow Security and Data Protection Engineer
$130K - $260K *
Lead the charge in establishing security governance and standards for the ServiceNow platform. Collaborate across teams to define security strategy, evaluate risks, and enhance security capabilities...
1 week ago
$250K - $500K *
Champion innovation by leading the migration to EKS, optimizing cloud infrastructure, and enhancing Kubernetes operations. Drive automation and CI/CD processes while ensuring high availability and per...
Yesterday
$150K - $225K *
Drive innovative security solutions by collaborating with sales teams to identify customer needs, educate partners, and manage technical inquiries, ensuring organizations are protected against evolvin...
1 week ago
Manager, Security Design & Delivery
$170K - $200K *
Champion the security design and delivery for hyperscale projects, ensuring comprehensive protection through physical and electronic systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish stand...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Critical Infrastructure Cyber Protection & Defense Analyst
$79K - $195K *
Join a dynamic team to enhance cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. Lead efforts in vulnerability assessment, incident response, and strategic consulting to protect industrial control systems ag...
4 days ago
Manager, Endpoint Security Engineering
$102K - $190K *
Pioneer the future of endpoint security by leading a dynamic engineering team, ensuring operational excellence, and driving innovative capabilities to protect enterprise assets while aligning with bus...
Yesterday
Pipeline Integrity Analyst with ECDA, ICDA, and SCCDA Report Writer.
$85K - $100K *
Transform pipeline integrity management by leveraging your expertise in corrosion assessment methodologies and technical report writing to ensure compliance and enhance safety across natural gas and h...
5 days ago
Vice President, Product Management (MDR)
$259K - $350K *
Redefine the future of cybersecurity by leading product strategy for a cutting-edge Managed Detection & Response portfolio, driving innovation and customer success while managing a high-performing tea...
2 weeks ago
$125K - $140K *
Optimize user experiences by crafting seamless flows, building APIs, and integrating third-party software. Collaborate with teams to design robust systems and deliver elegant solutions while ensuring...
3 weeks ago
Infrastructure Security Engineer (Senior/Principal)
$170K - $325K *
Elevate your career by securing and managing the transition to a hybrid-cloud infrastructure. Own identity management, cloud security, and developer tooling while leading incident response and threat...
4 days ago
Senior Counsel, Technology & Strategic Partnerships
$184K - $253K *
Drive strategic partnerships and technology transactions as a Senior Counsel, overseeing complex agreements and M&A support. Collaborate cross-functionally to build processes and provide business-focu...
6 days ago
$90K - $110K *
Manage day-to-day infrastructure and customer support, ensuring optimal server performance, security, and incident response. Collaborate on initiatives to enhance operational security and maintain doc...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Manage on-site construction activities, ensuring adherence to plans, schedules, and budgets. Oversee subcontractors, inspections, and safety protocols while coordinating with project teams for timely...
4 days 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.