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.
Aegis Based Defense Test Engineer
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Collaborate with mission stakeholders to integrate and execute Aegis Based Defense Ground Tests, ensuring comprehensive support and documentation for successful operational testing in a dynamic enviro...
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Shape the future of cybersecurity by developing innovative architectures and strategies that integrate AI and emerging technologies, enhancing security capabilities across multiple domains while colla...
2 weeks ago
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Elevate security practices by building and managing a comprehensive security program. Collaborate with engineers to identify vulnerabilities, implement automated checks, and ensure robust protection a...
Today
$120K - $145K *
Pioneer security initiatives by building and managing a robust security program. Collaborate with engineers to identify vulnerabilities, enhance product security, and ensure compliance across cloud ac...
Today
$85K - $105K *
Optimize security measures by monitoring threats, managing vulnerabilities, and collaborating with IT and business units. This role demands technical expertise and a proactive approach to incident res...
2 weeks ago
$115K - $170K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity as an Information Assurance Manager, leading a dedicated team to enhance security operations, compliance, and risk management across multiple environments while align...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Unlock your potential by designing and testing embedded software solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance device performance and functionality while ensuring robust testing method...
4 days ago
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Lead a dynamic testing team to enhance customer experiences through effective test strategy and execution, managing cross-functional interests while delivering quality solutions that meet project dead...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior Digital Forensics Investigator
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Empower investigations by analyzing digital evidence and employing programming skills. Utilize strong communication and analytical abilities to synthesize data from diverse sources while supporting co...
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Sr. Security Engineer, Proactive Security
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Reimagine security standards by validating applications and services at scale. Collaborate with a diverse team to analyze security issues, automate processes, and mentor junior engineers while driving...
Yesterday
$105K - $120K *
Elevate your career by securing enterprise systems and hybrid infrastructures. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement security best practices, ensuring data protection and compliance acr...
2 weeks ago
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Shape the future of cybersecurity by conducting assessments and analyses to enhance the security posture of Edge Analytics systems. Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure compliance with ISO/SAE 2143...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Optimize cloud infrastructure and CI/CD pipelines while collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance software delivery and system performance. Drive automation and maintain technical documenta...
1 week ago
$90K - $110K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing security design processes, ensuring high-quality project delivery, and collaborating with designers and project managers to drive efficiency in mission-critic...
2 weeks ago
Senior Product Security Engineer
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Contribute to securing products throughout their lifecycle by collaborating with developers, leading design reviews, and performing penetration testing to enhance security measures and compliance post...
Yesterday
Network and Perimeter Security IT Specialist I - Load Balancing
$95K - $125K *
Join a team that's leading the charge in defining network security across enterprise architectures, championing compliance and risk management while driving innovation in cloud transformations and inf...
Reposted 4 days ago
Network and Perimeter Security IT Specialist I - Load Balancing
$95K - $125K *
Shape the future of enterprise network security by defining architecture, leading design initiatives, and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure robust, compliant, and resilient security solutions...
Reposted 4 days ago
Network and Perimeter Security IT Specialist I - Load Balancing
$95K - $125K *
Elevate the network security landscape by defining standards, leading large-scale initiatives, and ensuring compliance. Collaborate with teams to enhance security solutions and proactively manage vuln...
Reposted 4 days ago
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Innovate the future of enterprise security by enhancing Tanium utilization, driving compliance initiatives, and collaborating across teams to improve overall cybersecurity posture and operational effi...
4 weeks ago
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Optimize cybersecurity operations by managing system security, conducting vulnerability assessments, and ensuring compliance with NIST standards. Collaborate with teams to maintain ATO status and supp...
2 weeks ago
Principal AI Security Engineer
$150K - $180K *
Drive the secure adoption of AI technologies by assessing risks, implementing safeguards, and collaborating across teams to establish effective security controls and governance for AI platforms and in...
2 weeks ago
Functional, Interface, and Data Conversion Tester - Integrated Eligibility
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Lead the charge in testing integrated eligibility systems for public assistance programs. Validate functionality, interfaces, and data conversions while ensuring compliance with eligibility rules and...
1 week ago
Cyber Security Engineer (Chesapeake)
$93K - $97K *
Unlock your potential as a Cybersecurity Engineer, enhancing security operations and incident response. Collaborate with teams to improve threat detection and mentor junior analysts, ensuring a robust...
1 week 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.