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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$63K - $105K *

Champion the development of AI agents and workflows, leveraging GenAI.mil to create innovative automated solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance processes and deliver high-qualit...

United StatesRemote

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$120K - $145K *

Lead the charge in software delivery by directing architecture, engineering, and Agile teams to ensure secure, high-quality software solutions meet operational readiness and stakeholder needs across m...

Chicago, ILRemote

Today

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$150K - $190K *

Grow your career with a leadership role in cybersecurity, driving strategy and operations across AI-driven platforms. Lead a team to enhance security architecture, manage incident response, and collab...

United StatesRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$110K - $130K *

Drive operational excellence by enhancing reliability and performance of a SaaS platform. Collaborate with development teams to implement automation, incident management, and observability practices...

United StatesRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$159K - $287K *

Lead the charge in driving technical success for public sector clients by designing and delivering innovative solutions. Collaborate with internal teams and engage with customers to meet mission-criti...

Cambridge, MARemote

2 weeks ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$145K - $185K *

Champion growth by leading business development within the Intelligence Community. Build relationships, shape solutions, and ensure contract success while managing a diverse portfolio and driving team...

United StatesRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$115K - $135K *

Innovate technology strategy and operations, leading a team to enhance product lifecycle and client solutions. Collaborate with executives to implement AI tools and ensure effective vendor management...

Greensboro, NCRemote

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Energy & Utilities

$110K - $130K *

Accelerate your career by leading mechanical system upgrades in data centers. Collaborate with diverse teams to drive project success, manage risks, and optimize processes while ensuring alignment wit...

Oregon City, ORRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Real Estate & Construction

$110K - $130K *

Unlock potential by driving innovative AI solutions through hands-on engineering and client collaboration. Transform complex business challenges into reliable, production-ready software while enhancin...

CanadaRemote

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$110K - $120K *

Accelerate data-driven insights by leading data cleansing and analytics efforts for federal financial management. Collaborate with stakeholders to deliver impactful reporting and automation solutions...

Arlington, VARemote

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$157K - $283K *

Lead the charge in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, managing client relationships, overseeing construction management efforts, and ensuring program success through strategic planning an...

RemoteRemote

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Real Estate & Construction

$110K - $130K *

Champion the development of automated testing frameworks using JavaScript or TypeScript, ensuring quality and reliability in web applications and APIs while collaborating with cross-functional teams t...

RemoteRemote

4 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$82K - $112K *

Shape compelling product narratives by leveraging market insights and AI tools. Collaborate cross-functionally to drive go-to-market strategies, ensuring impactful messaging and training materials tha...

United StatesRemote

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$100K - $120K *

Lead the charge in securing new business for a cutting-edge solution portfolio in Public Safety. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to showcase technology options, assess user needs, and drive cu...

United StatesRemote

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$95K - $115K *

Lead the installation and support of advanced machine vision systems, ensuring successful deployments in dynamic environments. Engage with customers, provide technical expertise, and manage complex pr...

Chesterland, OHRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$152K - $191K *

Lead operational health initiatives by optimizing processes and driving efficiency within Engineering, Product, and Design teams. Collaborate across functions to enhance productivity and implement dat...

CanadaRemote

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$114K - $143K *

Drive operational excellence as a Program Manager, enhancing EPD processes and collaboration. Leverage data insights to identify trends, improve efficiency, and support cross-functional teams in a dyn...

United StatesRemote

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$100K - $120K *

Lead the charge in developing high-quality applications by collaborating with team members to align on business and technical requirements, ensuring timely delivery of effective solutions in a dynamic...

RemoteRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$134K - $199K *

Drive innovation by leading the design and delivery of AI agents and workflows that enhance operational efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transform complex challenges into scalabl...

CanadaRemote

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$130K - $195K *

Join a dynamic AI Automation team to design and deliver production-grade AI agents and workflows, enhancing operational efficiency across the organization while solving complex business challenges wit...

United StatesRemote

5 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$110K - $130K *

Champion security excellence by designing and implementing robust security controls across hybrid environments, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance overall protection and response cap...

CanadaRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$85K - $100K *

Transform the future of web applications by developing, maintaining, and enhancing secure intranet-based tools for VA researchers. Leverage your ColdFusion/CFML and SQL expertise to ensure optimal per...

United StatesRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$110K - $135K *

Drive growth by partnering with sales teams to identify and develop cybersecurity service opportunities. Lead consultative engagements, create proposals, and deliver impactful presentations while coll...

New York, NYRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$125K - $150K *

Take ownership of next-generation IT infrastructure innovation. Collaborate with a diverse team to design, deploy, and secure tools that enhance operational capabilities using leading technologies in...

RemoteRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$116K - $145K *

Join a dynamic team to design and implement cloud security solutions, enhancing information security and compliance while mitigating cyber threats across the organization. Drive innovation and improve...

United StatesRemote

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Healthcare

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.