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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$80K - $95K *

Elevate the quality assurance process by leading testing initiatives, ensuring product reliability, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional software solutions that meet us...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

$80K - $95K *

Champion the testing and validation of US Navy Combat Systems, ensuring optimal performance through hands-on testing, collaboration with engineers, and support during at-sea events. Drive system impro...

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Contribute to the success of Combat Systems by performing testing, installations, and system support. Collaborate with engineers and operators to ensure optimal performance in a dynamic, fast-paced en...

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$130K - $155K *

Unlock potential by leading the development of cutting-edge ML detection models. Collaborate with a dynamic team to architect scalable solutions, engage with customers, and drive innovation in real-ti...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$326K - $385K *

Join a team that's shaping network security strategies to protect millions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify vulnerabilities, design solutions, and enhance our infrastructure, makin...

5 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Retail & Consumer Goods

$80K - $95K *

Transform testing processes by managing manual and automated efforts, ensuring quality through robust test scripts and defect management while supporting Risk Management Framework activities...

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$146K - $234K *

Design and implement robust enterprise network infrastructure for federal clients. Leverage expertise in Cisco technologies and network security to ensure compliance and operational excellence in miss...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$180K - $200K *

Transform security awareness by leading curriculum development and training initiatives. Collaborate across teams to create impactful content, assess learning outcomes, and drive behavior change in a...

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Transportation

$180K - $200K *

Unlock potential by leading the development of a comprehensive security awareness program. Collaborate across teams to create engaging training content, assess effectiveness, and drive behavior change...

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Transportation

$110K - $130K *

Champion security excellence by leading vulnerability remediation efforts, collaborating with engineering teams to translate findings into actionable requirements, and enhancing application security a...

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$77K - $117K *

Champion application security initiatives and vulnerability management while collaborating with development teams to enhance security practices across cloud and enterprise environments. Drive complian...

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Staffing

$77K - $117K *

Elevate application security by partnering with development teams to identify and mitigate risks. Drive vulnerability management and DevSecOps practices across cloud and enterprise environments, ensur...

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Staffing

$110K - $130K *

Shape the future by leading systems engineering efforts across all lifecycle stages, ensuring seamless integration and performance of complex systems while translating customer needs into effective so...

5 days ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$124K - $229K *

Join us to protect our players and platforms from advanced cyber threats. As a key member of our security team, you'll actively identify, investigate, and respond to incidents, ensuring robust defense...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$124K - $229K *

Join us to protect our players and platforms from advanced cyber threats. As a key member of our security team, you'll actively identify, investigate, and respond to security incidents, ensuring robus...

RemoteRemote

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$135K - $160K *

Transform the future of cloud infrastructure by automating and optimizing systems for reliability, performance, and scalability, collaborating with engineering teams to embed best practices and foster...

United StatesRemote

4 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$95K - $115K *

Support DLA's cyber defense mission by providing specialized expertise in threat analysis, incident response, and security monitoring. Collaborate with teams to enhance cybersecurity operations and pr...

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$80K - $107K *

Champion compliance and risk management initiatives, collaborating across teams to enhance security assessments and audits. Drive vendor risk evaluations and educate stakeholders, ensuring robust secu...

5 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$100K - $120K *

Engage in building a high-performing SDR team, leading outbound prospecting efforts, and driving sales growth. Collaborate closely with sales leaders to optimize strategies, enhance skills, and mainta...

Reposted 6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$145K - $170K *

Join a team that develops and optimizes cutting-edge software solutions, ensuring high-quality application performance across diverse military commands. Drive innovation through collaboration and tech...

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$83K - $105K *

Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing data security through proactive monitoring, incident investigation, and policy maintenance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to protect sensitive infor...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$83K - $105K *

Lead the charge in safeguarding sensitive data by managing DLP operations, investigating incidents, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance data protection strategies across various e...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$140K - $200K *

Join a team that's committed to enhancing identity and access management programs for a federal client. This role involves coordinating strategic initiatives across ICAM pillars while ensuring complia...

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$120K - $145K *

Grow your career with a dynamic team leading threat intelligence and detection engineering. Shape strategies to protect diverse industries from cyber threats, while building a high-impact program that...

United StatesRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$150K - $250K *

Dynamic is seeking a Reverse Engineer/Vulnerability Analyst for a permanent opportunity onsite Monday-Friday in Fort Meade, MD. The candidate will be working in a collaborative, mission-driven team en...

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 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.