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.
Senior Penetration Tester / Vulnerability Assessment Engineer
$120K - $145K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity by conducting advanced penetration tests and vulnerability assessments. Utilize expert techniques to identify and validate security weaknesses in cloud and on-premise...
3 weeks ago
Security Consultant - Penetration Testing
$110K - $130K *
Lead security engagements focused on Penetration Testing. Manage projects from initiation to reporting, mentor junior consultants, and enhance client relationships while delivering high-quality securi...
Today
Hardware Security Consultant / Penetration Tester
$80K - $150K *
Unlock potential by driving hardware security assessments, improving client security postures, and delivering actionable insights. Collaborate with teams and engage directly with clients while enhanci...
Reposted 1 week ago
Principal Security Consultant - Penetration Testing
$125K - $150K *
Transform security engagements by leading a team of penetration testers. Manage projects from initiation to reporting, mentor consultants, and enhance client relationships while driving service develo...
Today
Penetration Testing Engineer, MTS
$117K - $176K *
Drive hands-on penetration testing across diverse systems, leveraging expertise in application and cloud security. Collaborate with teams to identify vulnerabilities and provide actionable remediation...
3 weeks ago
Senior Penetration Tester & Assessments Lead
$90K - $189K *
Lead, shape, and execute advanced penetration testing assessments, overseeing scoping, planning, and reporting. Collaborate with teams to enhance cybersecurity measures across various platforms, ensur...
Reposted 1 week ago
Cyber Security Engineer - Penetration Tester (Journeyman)
$90K - $110K *
Unlock potential by conducting advanced penetration tests and cyber threat emulations to enhance the security posture of operational networks. Collaborate with teams to deliver actionable insights and...
3 weeks ago
Sr. Penetration Tester, OE-03-0071
$110K - $130K *
Pioneer advanced penetration testing initiatives, leveraging expertise in network protocols and security assessments. Collaborate with teams to enhance security measures and ensure compliance with fed...
1 week ago
$103K - $173K *
Champion advanced penetration testing initiatives to enhance security across enterprise applications. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify vulnerabilities, validate threats, and drive r...
1 week ago
Penetration Testing Analyst, Vice President
$120K - $202K *
Lead the technical execution of complex penetration testing engagements, ensuring realistic findings and effective remediation. Collaborate with teams to enhance internal testing capabilities and pres...
1 week ago
Penetration Testing Analyst, Vice President
$120K - $202K *
Elevate your career by leading complex penetration testing engagements, validating remediation, and ensuring technical accuracy. Collaborate with teams to enhance security measures and present finding...
1 week ago
Penetration Testing Analyst, Vice President
$120K - $202K *
Transform security practices by leading complex penetration testing engagements, validating remediation, and ensuring technical accuracy. Collaborate with teams to enhance internal capabilities and pr...
1 week ago
Penetration Testing Analyst, Vice President
$120K - $202K *
Elevate security standards by leading complex penetration testing engagements, validating remediation, and ensuring technical accuracy. Collaborate with teams to enhance internal capabilities and pres...
1 week ago
Penetration Testing Analyst, Vice President
$120K - $202K *
Lead the technical execution of complex penetration testing engagements, ensuring realistic findings and effective remediation. Collaborate with teams to enhance internal testing capabilities and pres...
1 week ago
Penetration Testing Analyst, Vice President
$120K - $202K *
Join a team that's at the forefront of cybersecurity, leading complex penetration testing engagements and validating remediation efforts. You'll ensure technical accuracy and defensibility while mento...
1 week ago
$122K - $162K *
Shape the future of security by leading advanced penetration testing initiatives, enhancing AI-driven security strategies, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to mitigate risks across enterp...
1 week ago
Staff Security Engineer (Penetration Tester)
$152K - $261K *
Contribute to enhancing security by performing in-depth penetration testing, exploiting vulnerabilities, and simulating threat actor campaigns, while providing remediation guidelines and leveraging yo...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Red Team Penetration Tester III (TS/SCI REQUIRED)
$108K - $130K *
Innovate cybersecurity solutions by conducting advanced penetration tests, evaluating enterprise defenses, and emulating threat behaviors to strengthen organizational security across diverse systems...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Red Team Penetration Tester III (TS/SCI REQUIRED)
$110K - $130K *
Engage with a dynamic cybersecurity team to conduct cutting-edge penetration tests, simulate real-world threats, and identify vulnerabilities across diverse systems, enhancing security protocols and s...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Operational Technology (OT) Security Analyst / ICS Penetration Tester
$100K - $120K *
Transform your career by enhancing the security of critical industrial control systems. Collaborate with engineers to conduct hands-on assessments, mitigate risks, and ensure safety in operational env...
2 weeks ago
Application Security Penetration Engineer
$96K - $144K *
Champion the identification and mitigation of vulnerabilities in applications, APIs, and AI systems. Collaborate with teams to enhance security measures and drive remediation efforts while leveraging...
1 week ago
Application Security Penetration Engineer
$96K - $144K *
Drive security excellence by conducting in-depth penetration testing and vulnerability assessments across diverse applications, including AI-driven technologies, while translating findings into action...
1 week ago
Application Security Penetration Engineer
$96K - $144K *
Help us tackle complex security challenges by conducting in-depth penetration testing and vulnerability assessments across diverse applications, including AI-driven technologies. Join our team to enha...
1 week ago
$112K - $179K *
Elevate software quality by designing and implementing automated testing frameworks. Collaborate with developers to enhance test coverage and reliability, ensuring robust software products throughout...
Yesterday
Cybersecurity Penetration Tester SE-4
$108K - $130K *
Lead the charge in cybersecurity by conducting advanced penetration testing and vulnerability analysis for Air Force and Space Force systems. Collaborate in a dynamic environment to enhance security m...
Today
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.