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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$150K - $180K *

Drive innovation as a Principal Software Engineer, shaping next-gen macOS and Linux endpoint technology. Influence architecture, implement features, and collaborate across teams to elevate product qua...

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$123K - $172K *

Build and maintain user-friendly administrative interfaces for enterprise customers, enhancing device security management. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop scalable solutions and con...

RemoteRemote

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$90K - $110K *

Elevate cybersecurity resilience by managing threats, enhancing protocols, and leading vulnerability responses. Collaborate with internal teams and third-party services to ensure a proactive security...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$80K - $128K *

Champion the installation and maintenance of structured cabling systems, ensuring network reliability and security. Collaborate with diverse teams to troubleshoot and enhance network infrastructure in...

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$107K - $155K *

Unlock potential by developing secure technologies for next-gen AI devices. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance product security and protect customer data while gaining hands-on experie...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$80K - $95K *

Engage in the design and evaluation of advanced low voltage technology systems, ensuring effective integration of communication and medical technology infrastructures while preparing essential constru...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Real Estate & Construction

$100K - $175K *

Grow expertise in Operational Technology security, leading critical engagements across industrial systems. Collaborate on advanced methodologies while mentoring others and contributing to pivotal rese...

United StatesRemote

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$95K - $115K *

Lead client relationships with accountability and strategic oversight, managing technology roadmaps, operational reviews, and ensuring client satisfaction while fostering growth in a senior role. Be t...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$95K - $115K *

Empower client relationships by taking ownership of portfolios and driving strategic technology roadmaps. Engage with key decision-makers to ensure satisfaction, retention, and growth while orchestrat...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$175K - $220K *

Unlock potential by conducting in-depth cyber analysis and intelligence research. Collaborate with mission partners to identify trends, detect anomalies, and support critical cybersecurity operations...

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$130K - $170K *

Drive the evolution of security detection capabilities, enhancing protection for sensitive data. Collaborate across teams to build scalable solutions, improve detection accuracy, and respond to emergi...

5 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$150K - $180K *

Lead the development and operation of a cutting-edge Security Observability & Data Platform, enhancing endpoint security, threat detection, and incident response while driving innovation in security s...

United StatesRemote

6 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$163K - $322K *

Join our team to lead vulnerability management and patching initiatives, driving cyber risk reduction and enhancing client security programs through strategic oversight and innovative solutions in a d...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Join a team that's at the forefront of cybersecurity, leading vulnerability management and patching initiatives. Drive strategic risk decisions, enhance client programs, and mentor future leaders whil...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Transform cyber defense strategies by leading vulnerability management initiatives, enhancing client security programs, and driving operational excellence across diverse technology environments. Colla...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Elevate our Cyber Defense initiatives by leading vulnerability management and patching operations. Collaborate with teams to enhance client security, drive program growth, and advise on AI-related ris...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Champion cyber resilience by leading vulnerability management and patching initiatives, driving operational strategy, and advising clients on risk mitigation in complex environments while fostering te...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Shape the future of cybersecurity by leading vulnerability management initiatives, driving client engagement, and enhancing threat exposure programs. Collaborate with teams to mitigate risks and eleva...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Drive vulnerability management initiatives, leading teams to enhance cyber resilience through effective patching and remediation strategies while advising clients on risk management and AI-related exp...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Elevate your career by leading vulnerability management initiatives, driving cyber risk reduction, and advising clients on security strategies. Collaborate with teams to enhance exposure management an...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Transform cyber risk management by leading vulnerability and patch management initiatives. Drive client engagement, enhance security operations, and mentor teams to ensure robust defense against evolv...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Join a team that's at the forefront of cybersecurity, leading vulnerability management and patching initiatives. Drive strategic risk decisions, enhance client programs, and mentor future leaders whil...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Elevate cybersecurity resilience by leading vulnerability management initiatives, driving remediation strategies, and advising clients on risk mitigation in complex environments. Collaborate with team...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Elevate your career by leading vulnerability management initiatives, driving cyber risk reduction, and advising clients on advanced security strategies. Collaborate with teams to enhance exposure mana...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$163K - $322K *

Lead the charge in managing vulnerability and patch management operations, driving remediation strategies, and advising clients on cyber risk. Collaborate with teams to enhance security programs and d...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

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.