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.
$85K - $97K *
Transform software solutions by designing, coding, and deploying full-stack applications. Collaborate in agile sprints to enhance integrations and ensure secure coding practices while delivering high...
Today
$85K - $97K *
Engineer robust full-stack solutions, integrating REST APIs and enhancing legacy applications while ensuring secure coding practices and compliance with accessibility standards in a dynamic, agile env...
Today
$85K - $97K *
Join a dynamic team to design, develop, and deploy full-stack solutions, enhancing VA enterprise services through innovative REST APIs and secure coding practices while ensuring compliance with access...
Today
$71K - $116K *
Lead the charge in ensuring quality and reliability of core technologies through comprehensive testing strategies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance software performance and user sa...
2 days ago
$130K - $155K *
Lead the charge in driving end-to-end strategy and discovery for complex client engagements. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver actionable insights, build trusted relationships, and na...
1 week ago
$110K - $130K *
Take ownership of comprehensive cyber risk assessments across the enterprise, articulating risks in business terms to ensure informed decision-making by leadership and helping to strengthen the organi...
Reposted yesterday
$100K - $120K *
Accelerate your career by partnering with leaders to develop innovative solutions, guide engineering best practices, and ensure high-quality infrastructure. Collaborate with teams to achieve technical...
Reposted 1 week ago
Security Engineer, Channel Sales (GSI)
$110K - $130K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity by collaborating with partners to identify solutions, educate stakeholders, and drive impactful engagements that enhance organizational safety and operational integri...
1 week ago
Lead Python Test Automation Engineer
$120K - $140K *
Champion quality assurance initiatives by leveraging Python and AI-assisted practices. Drive automation improvements, enhance testing efficiency, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to elevate...
2 weeks ago
$72K - $100K *
Join our dynamic team as a Sr. Credit Analyst, owning the underwriting cycle from application review to decision-making. Leverage your analytical skills to enhance credit processes and contribute to a...
1 week ago
Surveillance Radar Journeyman Advisor
$80K - $128K *
Engage in the modernization of the National Airspace System by providing expert analysis and support for radar systems. Collaborate with FAA stakeholders to enhance air traffic management and ensure t...
Today
Senior Data Ops and Services Programmer
$100K - $115K *
Unlock the potential of our data infrastructure by optimizing databases, leading projects, and collaborating with teams to ensure data integrity and scalability in a dynamic environment...
1 week ago
Senior Infrastructure Security Engineer
$87K - $161K *
Join a team that's enhancing security across hybrid and cloud environments. This role focuses on maturing Attack Surface Management and Breach Attack Simulation programs, ensuring robust security visi...
Yesterday
Cyber Security Exposure Response Lead
$100K - $170K *
Lead the charge in modernizing enterprise security by investigating and mitigating critical vulnerabilities. Collaborate across teams to drive risk reduction and enhance operational effectiveness in a...
Today
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in optimizing a fast-growing credit card portfolio, driving customer acquisition, engagement, and rewards economics while collaborating with partners and engineering teams to enhance p...
2 weeks ago
$104K - $166K *
Drive the integrated risk management and quality framework for IT deployments, ensuring effective risk identification, mitigation, and quality assurance across workstreams while producing insightful d...
5 days ago
Cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert (SME)
$160K - $170K *
Drive cybersecurity excellence by assessing controls, resolving complex issues, and enhancing strategic decision-making. Leverage advanced expertise to protect critical systems and advance organizatio...
4 weeks ago
$150K - $225K *
Lead and mentor a dynamic Security Operations team, overseeing incident response and SOC improvements while driving hands-on investigations and AI-assisted workflows to enhance security posture and op...
1 week ago
Architect, AI - Active Top Secret Clearance
$130K - $215K *
Unlock potential by leading AI architecture solutions that empower clients through innovative design, hands-on implementation, and strategic guidance, ensuring successful adoption of cutting-edge tech...
6 days ago
Virtualization / Automation Engineer (Journeyman)
$95K - $115K *
Empower operational excellence by managing and automating virtualization platforms, ensuring secure, scalable, and recoverable services across diverse environments while supporting critical infrastruc...
2 days ago
$69K - $107K *
Champion client success by leveraging technical expertise to enhance platform value, optimize workflows, and drive measurable outcomes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative so...
3 weeks ago
Construction SW Development Specialist
$105K - $150K *
Unlock potential by joining a dynamic team focused on integrating construction technology solutions. Collaborate with customers and partners to enhance workflows, drive adoption, and deliver impactful...
Today
$150K - $180K *
Lead the technology vision and strategy, driving innovation and operational excellence across infrastructure, applications, and cybersecurity while fostering a culture of service and continuous improv...
6 days ago
$180K - $215K *
Unlock potential by leading the transition of a GCP platform to AWS, ensuring compliance with federal security standards. Leverage your AWS expertise to design secure, scalable solutions while mentori...
2 weeks ago
Senior AI-Assisted Test Automation Engineer
$120K - $145K *
Drive quality assurance for modern healthcare applications, ensuring reliability and maintainability through automated testing, API validation, and collaboration in an Agile environment. Contribute to...
6 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.