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.
$120K - $150K *
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Unlock potential by joining a dynamic team of software engineers focused on cybersecurity. Collaborate on innovative solutions for Red and Blue Teams while advancing your skills in a supportive enviro...
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4 days ago
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1 week ago
Senior Threat Intelligence Analyst, Hacks
$110K - $130K *
Manage the end-to-end response to security incidents, ensuring rapid visibility of hacks, coordinating teams, maintaining data accuracy, and leveraging AI for enhanced analysis and attribution, all wh...
3 weeks ago
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Build your expertise in enterprise security engineering, architecting advanced threat detection and response systems while collaborating across teams. Play a key role in safeguarding innovative softwa...
3 weeks ago
Staff Enterprise Security Engineer
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Unlock advanced threat detection and incident response capabilities. Shape the security landscape by architecting and managing robust solutions to protect mission-critical systems in a dynamic environ...
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$100K - $120K *
Optimize cybersecurity solutions by integrating methodologies and resolving complex system challenges. Collaborate with a dynamic team to enhance information security for critical defense operations...
3 weeks ago
Cybersecurity Engineer (Archer)
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Elevate your career as a Cybersecurity Engineer, tackling complex security challenges while supporting critical systems. Collaborate with a dynamic team to enhance cybersecurity measures and drive inn...
3 weeks ago
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Design and build automated testing frameworks for validating endpoint management across operating systems. Collaborate with teams to enhance software quality and drive automated validation of system-l...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Security / Technology Consultant - Austin, TX
$120K - $150K *
Lead the design and execution of advanced security and technology systems, managing complex projects while mentoring teams and collaborating with clients to deliver innovative solutions in a dynamic e...
1 week ago
$150K - $160K *
Champion cloud and application security by enhancing AWS practices, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving continuous improvement to ensure secure and compliant environments...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Pioneer in Information Assurance, ensuring network compliance and cybersecurity across NIPRNET and SIPRNET. Collaborate with teams to manage accreditation, vulnerability assessments, and incident resp...
Today
$140K - $190K *
Engage directly with users to translate operational needs into innovative solutions. Utilize your engineering expertise to prototype rapidly, build trust in mission-critical environments, and expand p...
4 weeks ago
$140K - $190K *
Contribute to innovative solutions by embedding with users to enhance operational efficiency. Drive product improvements through rapid prototyping and collaboration, ensuring high-quality code deliver...
4 weeks ago
Principal Software Tester (Edifecs)
$80K - $120K *
Elevate software quality by leading comprehensive testing strategies, ensuring all systems meet rigorous standards and user needs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive improvements and del...
2 weeks ago
Principal Software Tester (Edifecs)
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team as a Software Testing Principal, where you'll develop and execute comprehensive test plans, ensuring high-quality software solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to dri...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $90K *
Support cybersecurity initiatives by monitoring threats, conducting assessments, and collaborating with teams to enhance security posture. Contribute to incident response and compliance efforts while...
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$80K - $90K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity measures. In this role, you'll monitor threats, conduct assessments, and collaborate with stakeholders to protect organizational assets and impr...
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Application Security Architect
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$130K - $160K *
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3 weeks ago
$145K - $204K *
Innovate automated testing for drone and ground control software, ensuring quality and stability through CI/CD integration. Collaborate on test framework development and maintain comprehensive documen...
3 weeks ago
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1 week ago
Director, Technical Lead Forward Deployed Engineer
$150K - $180K *
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3 weeks ago
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.