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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$110K - $125K *

Elevate customer engagement by optimizing privacy program performance across a diverse portfolio. Ensure proactive intervention and support for healthcare privacy teams, driving compliance and enhanci...

United StatesRemote

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$150K - $350K *

Drive the development of cutting-edge AI infrastructure to enhance large-scale reinforcement learning and distributed training systems, optimizing performance and efficiency across various layers and...

San Francisco, CARemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$180K - $220K *

Shape customer success by leading enablement initiatives that empower clients to effectively utilize our platform. Collaborate cross-functionally to create impactful training programs and resources, e...

New York City, NYRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$100K - $120K *

Shape the future of SaaS Cyber Solutions by driving pipeline generation, building partnerships, and representing the brand at key events. Collaborate with teams to enhance customer feedback and execut...

Toronto, ONRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$225K - $281K *

Lead the charge in shaping detection and response strategies, driving hands-on initiatives to enhance security architecture and incident management. Collaborate across teams to ensure robust threat de...

United StatesRemote

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$100K - $120K *

Join a team that's revolutionizing pharmacy operations with AI. As a Software Engineer, you'll independently ship impactful features and fixes, collaborating closely with experienced engineers in a fa...

Orlando, FLRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$173K - $255K *

Join a dynamic team to enhance product security throughout the development lifecycle. Collaborate with engineering and product teams to identify vulnerabilities, automate processes, and implement secu...

United StatesRemote

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$102K - $190K *

Lead and develop a high-performing team in firewall security engineering, ensuring consistent implementation of security controls while balancing operational demands and strategic initiatives for ente...

RemoteRemote

Yesterday

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$90K - $110K *

Optimize real-time automation solutions across manufacturing and enterprise levels. Collaborate with engineering teams to design, implement, and enhance systems using diverse programming and design to...

Richmond, VARemote

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$161K - $209K *

Advance analytics initiatives by developing machine learning models and experiments to enhance pro acquisition, activation, and retention, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize s...

RemoteRemote

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

$86K - $165K *

Join a dynamic team as a Software Developer, enhancing security tools through innovative web applications. Collaborate in an agile environment to design, develop, and maintain solutions that support c...

Texas, USRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$100K - $120K *

Champion the technical side of sales by delivering tailored demos, managing RFPs, and collaborating on complex deals. Immerse yourself in the sales cycle, ensuring prospects see the value of our solut...

Chicago, ILRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$150K - $190K *

Elevate your career by joining a dynamic team focused on Azure cloud engineering, DevSecOps, and platform automation. Collaborate with stakeholders to deliver secure, reliable digital services while e...

United StatesRemote

3 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Drive growth by selling our innovative platform to financial institutions. Manage complex, multi-stakeholder sales cycles, guiding clients through their AI journey while exceeding annual quotas in a c...

United StatesRemote

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$120K - $155K *

Optimize cloud infrastructure and enhance automation while ensuring production reliability. Collaborate with teams to modernize deployment practices and improve system functionality in a fully remote...

United StatesRemote

Today

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$66K - $110K *

Optimize your career by joining a dynamic team of cyber threat experts. You'll monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents, ensuring robust protection for customer environments while collaborat...

CanadaRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$120K - $145K *

Drive the evolution of a cutting-edge CI/CD platform, integrating AI tools and leading a team of DevOps engineers. Own production releases and implement modern delivery practices to enhance software d...

United StatesRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Education, Government & Non-Profit

$90K - $110K *

Accelerate talent acquisition by partnering with leaders to build candidate pipelines, drive recruiting efforts, and ensure timely hiring across corporate functions in a dynamic, project-driven enviro...

United StatesRemote

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$81K - $91K *

Elevate your career by leading the development and enhancement of coastal models, analyzing hydrodynamic data, and contributing to innovative oceanographic products that support maritime safety and en...

United StatesRemote

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Technical Services

$221K - $270K *

Champion partner success by driving service offerings, managing launches, and delivering forecasts. Collaborate with internal teams to enhance product value and ensure alignment with market needs, fos...

United StatesRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$84K - $131K *

Join a dynamic team to provide scientific expertise and application support, enhancing customer experiences through product demonstrations, training, and troubleshooting while collaborating with cross...

Illinois, USRemote

4 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Pharmaceuticals & Biotech

$129K - $173K *

Join a team that's redefining API integration by leveraging your expertise to guide customers in automating service processes. Collaborate with technical sellers and enhance API adoption through effec...

RemoteRemote

5 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Telecommunications & Hardware

$90K - $110K *

Join a team that's dedicated to delivering exceptional project implementations and enhancements for restaurant brands. Lead cross-functional efforts, ensuring customer satisfaction while managing time...

RemoteRemote

Yesterday

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Hospitality & Recreation

$200K - $205K *

Drive the expansion of our Data Services & Analytics practice by leading technical delivery, managing client relationships, and overseeing project execution. Empower teams to deliver innovative data i...

United StatesRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$177K *

Unlock potential by designing and implementing Epic clinical systems to enhance research workflows, collaborating with clinical teams to optimize processes and ensure data integrity in a remote settin...

San Francisco, CARemote

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Staffing

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.