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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$120K - $145K *

Drive comprehensive vulnerability management across diverse infrastructures, ensuring robust security for cutting-edge AI technologies. Own the entire security program, from engineering to remediation...

San Francisco, CARemote

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$130K - $155K *

Drive the development of a comprehensive security program, managing exposure and vulnerability across diverse infrastructures. Collaborate with teams to engineer solutions that ensure robust protectio...

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$111K - $182K *

Champion innovative security solutions by leading offensive security efforts. Drive hands-on assessments, penetration testing, and AI-driven capabilities to enhance product security while collaboratin...

Reposted today

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Telecommunications & Hardware

$95K - $115K *

Shape the future of cybersecurity by leading endpoint detection and response initiatives. Collaborate with teams to deploy and optimize EDR solutions, ensuring robust security measures while meeting c...

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$95K - $115K *

Champion endpoint security by deploying and managing EDR solutions, collaborating with teams to enhance customer security posture, and innovating to exceed industry standards in a dynamic, remote-frie...

Salt Lake City, UTRemote

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$114K - $231K *

Join a team that's redefining DevSecOps by designing CI/CD pipelines and automating security compliance. Collaborate with software teams to enhance delivery speed and confidence while architecting rob...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$135K - $216K *

Analyze and assess cyber threats to safeguard critical DoD assets. Utilize intelligence analysis skills to evaluate vulnerabilities, develop reports, and deliver briefings to senior officials, while m...

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$104K - $166K *

Join us to manage the full lifecycle of cyber intelligence production, integrating multi-source data to deliver actionable assessments that enhance risk management and inform critical operations for s...

6 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$120K - $145K *

Unlock your potential as a Senior Cybersecurity Pre-Sales Technical Architect, driving strategic security solutions and fostering relationships with key stakeholders to enhance business development in...

Lisle, ILRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$210K - $235K *

Join a team that's redefining information security strategy and operations. Lead the development of a scalable security program, manage incident response, and ensure compliance while collaborating wit...

2 weeks ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$80K - $95K *

Engage with us to shape security solutions through seamless API integrations. As a Python Developer, you will connect various vulnerability and security tools to enhance our automation efforts and str...

Montreal, QCIn-Person

4 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$200K - $220K *

Lead the design and implementation of advanced systems and workflows for GTM teams. Drive technical initiatives to optimize scalability, leverage AI, and mentor engineers, ensuring robust architectura...

United StatesRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$200K - $220K *

Lead the charge in architecting and implementing next-gen GTM systems, driving AI workflows and integrations across platforms. Collaborate with leadership to define technical roadmaps and mentor engin...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$80K - $95K *

Transform security operations by managing and enhancing security solutions, investigating incidents, and supporting enterprise security architecture. Collaborate with teams to uphold security goals an...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$143K - $181K *

Engineer cybersecurity solutions by translating strategy into execution, focusing on AI security, ransomware resilience, and identity management. Collaborate across teams to enhance operational resili...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$158K - $165K *

Transform cybersecurity operations by leading SOC enhancements, integrating advanced technologies, and optimizing threat detection. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvem...

5 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$99K - $206K *

Drive innovation and excellence in test engineering by developing evaluation plans, conducting data analysis, and ensuring compliance with government standards. Collaborate with teams to enhance testi...

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$99K - $206K *

Drive innovation by analyzing system requirements and developing comprehensive test plans. Collaborate with teams to ensure effective test execution and reporting, while supporting government document...

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$146K - $234K *

Grow your career with a dynamic team focused on data management solutions. Leverage your software engineering skills to develop innovative strategies for data extraction and analysis, enhancing missio...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$151K - $189K *

Join a team that's redefining external attack surface management technology. Lead technical efforts, own system architecture, and develop a reliable framework for data analysis, ensuring trusted insig...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$120K - $145K *

Lead strategic cybersecurity initiatives, enhance client security posture, and manage complex incident responses. Collaborate with teams to develop solutions, analyze threats, and improve security ope...

Massachusetts, USRemote

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$81K - $95K *

Optimize security operations by monitoring threats, investigating incidents, and enhancing controls. Collaborate with IT and business teams to strengthen security posture and ensure compliance with in...

Mississauga, ONIn-Person

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Media

$150K - $200K *

Transform the security landscape by leading corporate security and compliance initiatives. Own identity infrastructure, manage vendor relationships, and ensure customer trust while implementing robust...

United StatesRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Energy & Utilities

$150K - $185K *

Empower your career as you lead DevSecOps initiatives, enhancing cloud and application development through automation, security, and collaboration across teams to deliver robust solutions and drive co...

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$142K - $193K *

Empower your career by building advanced statistical models to enhance security for a global satellite network. Collaborate with a dynamic team to analyze complex data, develop privacy-preserving tech...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Retail & Consumer Goods

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.