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.
$95K - $115K *
Drive the maintenance and configuration of network systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Collaborate with vendors and teams to troubleshoot issues, manage incidents, and enhance servi...
Yesterday
$220K - $275K *
Join a dynamic team as a Senior DevSecOps Engineer, driving the design and automation of secure cloud infrastructure. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance security practices and optimize...
Reposted 3 days ago
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$110K - $130K *
Drive proactive threat detection and mitigation in a large-scale enterprise. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to uncover sophisticated cyber threats, utilizing advanced methodologies and framew...
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2 weeks ago
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$110K - $220K *
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4 days ago
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Partner with us to enhance cybersecurity by managing vulnerability assessments, coordinating remediation efforts, and ensuring compliance for critical systems. Drive improvements in vulnerability mana...
5 days ago
Vulnerability Management / ACAS Response Analyst (Senior)
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Champion vulnerability management by analyzing ACAS results, prioritizing findings, and coordinating remediation efforts across teams to ensure compliance and enhance cybersecurity posture for critica...
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Manager, Federal Technology Risk Management
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Shape your career by leading IT audit readiness engagements, enhancing technology controls, and driving performance improvements for U.S. Federal clients. Supervise audit staff and ensure compliance w...
3 weeks ago
$76K - $89K *
Transform Datacenter projects by leading installation phases, ensuring quality and customer satisfaction. Leverage your expertise to manage teams, uphold standards, and deliver exceptional service thr...
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Cyber Investigations Analyst - OTA / Active Top Secret
$112K - $179K *
Empower cyber investigations by analyzing user behavior and threats. Collaborate with teams to enhance detection capabilities and communicate findings effectively. Mentor junior analysts while staying...
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$125K - $150K *
Elevate your career by joining a dynamic team focused on enhancing IT security. As a key player, you'll monitor threats, respond to incidents, and collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen the organ...
1 week ago
Distinguished Red Team Operator
$137K - $263K *
Explore opportunities to lead Red Team engagements, enhancing security through adversary emulation and threat simulation. Collaborate across teams to develop strategies that protect critical assets wh...
2 weeks ago
Distinguished Red Team Operator
$137K - $263K *
Champion advanced red team operations by leading engagements that test and enhance security measures across diverse environments, ensuring robust defenses against evolving cyber threats through strate...
2 weeks ago
Distinguished Red Team Operator
$137K - $263K *
Lead comprehensive Red Team operations, enhancing security through adversary emulation and strategic testing. Collaborate across teams to identify vulnerabilities and drive impactful security initiati...
2 weeks ago
$135K - $216K *
Advance national security by leading identity intelligence operations, analyzing complex data, and providing expert guidance on biometric technologies. Collaborate with teams to enhance identification...
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Vulnerability Management and Endpoint Security Administrator
$70K - $100K *
Analyze and enhance enterprise vulnerability and endpoint security across diverse IT environments. Collaborate with teams to assess risks, implement remediation strategies, and optimize security proce...
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Software Development Test Engineer (SDET), IOS
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$90K - $110K *
Innovate technical SEO strategies to enhance global web performance, ensuring optimal search visibility and user experience. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve technical i...
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Forward Deployed Engineer - Cybersecurity - US
$150K - $180K *
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Forward Deployed Engineer - Cybersecurity - US
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4 weeks ago
Senior Software Engineer, Mobile Security Analysis
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1 week ago
Director of Information Security
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Drive the charge in shaping and executing the enterprise information security strategy, managing risk, governance, and compliance while leading a team to ensure robust protection and resilience agains...
3 weeks ago
Director, Security Engineering
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Join a team that's redefining security engineering by leading strategic initiatives across product, infrastructure, and cloud security. Drive innovation, foster collaboration, and build a culture of s...
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.