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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$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...

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  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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...

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Today

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$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...

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1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$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...

Missouri, USRemote

Yesterday

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$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...

United StatesRemote

Today

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$110K - $130K *

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2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$104K - $166K *

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5 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$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...

Washington, DCRemote

4 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$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...

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1 week ago

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$130K - $215K *

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Virginia, USRemote

6 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$95K - $115K *

Empower operational excellence by managing and automating virtualization platforms, ensuring secure, scalable, and recoverable services across diverse environments while supporting critical infrastruc...

Chicago, ILRemote

2 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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...

United StatesRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$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...

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Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$150K - $180K *

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6 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Technical Services

$180K - $215K *

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Drive quality assurance for modern healthcare applications, ensuring reliability and maintainability through automated testing, API validation, and collaboration in an Agile environment. Contribute to...

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6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$80K - $97K *

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1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$86K - $138K *

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6 days ago

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1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$165K - $231K *

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5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$208K - $235K *

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  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$110K - $130K *

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2 weeks ago

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2 weeks ago

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5 days ago

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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.