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.
$86K - $138K *
Drive independent assessments of deployment readiness across workstreams, ensuring quality and compliance. Collaborate with teams to produce readiness evaluations and present findings to leadership, e...
3 days ago
Senior Network Security Engineer - Palo Alto (Remote)
$170K - $180K *
Optimize enterprise network security with hands-on design, implementation, and mentoring. Lead complex projects, drive client success, and contribute to evolving tech standards while cultivating relat...
4 weeks ago
AI-Assisted Cyber Analysis Specialist
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Join a team that's redefining cyber analysis by designing AI-assisted workflows to enhance cybersecurity. Leverage expertise in Python automation and security to streamline the triage of complex cyber...
Reposted 1 week ago
Application Security Engineer II
$118K - $152K *
Transform application security by owning project delivery, identifying risks, and collaborating with engineering teams. Drive secure design practices and contribute to incident response, ensuring robu...
2 weeks ago
WINDOWS CLIENT ENGINEER - HYBRID PITTSBURGH
$85K - $100K *
Champion the modernization and management of Windows endpoints using Microsoft Intune and SCCM, enhancing security and compliance while minimizing vulnerability risks in a hands-on engineering role...
4 weeks ago
Senior Product Enablement & Adoption Manager
$100K - $150K *
Empower members to fully engage with our product through strategic post-sale launches, driving adoption and enhancing user experience. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful impl...
2 weeks ago
$105K - $231K *
Empower security excellence by leading ServiceNow implementations, ensuring compliance with NIST and FedRAMP standards, and enhancing platform security through innovative governance and risk managemen...
1 week ago
$233K - $300K *
Drive excellence by leading global quality strategies, enhancing QA practices, and fostering innovation across diverse product teams. Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure high-performing, reliable...
Reposted yesterday
Sr Cyber Security Automation Engineer
$150K - $190K *
Transform cybersecurity through automation, driving impactful solutions across diverse security functions. Leverage AI to enhance incident response and promote efficient processes within a fast-paced...
Reposted 6 days ago
$120K - $145K *
Innovate automation strategies by architecting agentic AI capabilities across business functions, enhancing AI fluency, and delivering measurable value through effective execution and KPI governance o...
Reposted today
Technical Product Owner, AI-Directed Development
$100K *
Take ownership of product health and growth by directing AI coding agents, ensuring quality and efficiency in production. Collaborate with teams to deliver impactful changes while maintaining document...
1 week ago
Director of Security Engineering
$214K - $308K *
Empower security excellence by leading high-performing teams, driving strategic initiatives, and collaborating across functions. Own major security programs and represent the organization to executive...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $110K *
Shape user experiences by designing intuitive interfaces for a cutting-edge security platform. Collaborate with engineers to create impactful visual workflows, leveraging modern technologies to enhanc...
2 weeks ago
$150K - $220K *
Oversee a specialized team to ensure AI safety in biological research, addressing dual-use risks and providing expert guidance on complex cases while mentoring junior specialists and advising clients...
Yesterday
Presales Solutions Engineer - Cloud Security
$96K - $184K *
Optimize cybersecurity solutions by collaborating with customers to assess needs, design secure architectures, and deliver compelling presentations that drive business value across cloud and hybrid en...
5 days ago
Presales Solutions Engineer - Cloud Security
$96K - $184K *
Drive innovative cybersecurity solutions by engaging with customers to assess their needs, design tailored architectures, and present compelling value propositions, ensuring alignment with business ob...
5 days ago
Presales Solutions Engineer - Cloud Security
$120K - $230K *
Champion innovative cybersecurity solutions by engaging with customers to assess their needs, design tailored architectures, and deliver compelling presentations that drive business value across cloud...
1 week ago
$85K - $95K *
Transform processes and drive accountability by leading cross-functional projects. Manage initiatives from scoping to completion while maintaining clear communication across teams and ensuring stakeho...
3 weeks ago
Sr. Manager, Enterprise Cyber Defense
$181K - $301K *
Transform your career by leading a global cyber defense team, driving proactive strategies to mitigate risks and enhance security across diverse environments. Collaborate with cross-functional teams t...
Reposted 1 week ago
Data Center Acquisition Manager
$190K - $215K *
Manage the entire deal process for data center acquisitions, engaging stakeholders, negotiating terms, and driving transactions to closure. Handle multiple deals with precision while optimizing commer...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$90K - $110K *
Drive innovation by deploying and troubleshooting advanced IP networks in diverse environments. Collaborate with teams to integrate cutting-edge security technologies while ensuring seamless connectiv...
2 weeks ago
$124K - $182K *
Lead the development of threat intelligence solutions, transforming data into actionable insights. Collaborate with engineers and experts to define product vision and roadmap for innovative cybersecur...
4 weeks ago
IT Services- Cyber Threat Response Analyst- Senior Associate
$86K - $166K *
Join a dynamic team focused on cybersecurity incident management, where you'll analyze and resolve security incidents, develop proactive strategies, and safeguard sensitive data against evolving cyber...
2 weeks ago
Enterprise Account Executive, Mid-Atlantic
$150K - $180K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of cybersecurity sales, engaging enterprise accounts to drive growth, cultivate strategic partnerships, and dominate the market with innovative solutions that secu...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Elevate your career by collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance business operations, streamline processes, and drive value through effective analysis and documentation. Your expertise will...
1 week 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.