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 - $140K *
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
$120K - $145K *
Empower our organization by enhancing Tanium efficiencies and integrating cybersecurity tools. Collaborate across teams to optimize endpoint visibility, compliance, and security operations while drivi...
4 weeks ago
Forward Deployed Detection and Response Consultant, Cyber Defence, National Security, Mandiant
$134K - $137K *
Discover new horizons by enhancing national security through advanced cyber defense strategies and incident response, working closely with clients to address complex security challenges and implement...
4 weeks ago
Information System Security Officer
$80K - $130K *
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
$80K - $95K *
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
Vulnerability Management / ACAS Analyst (Journeyman)
$80K - $95K *
Oversee vulnerability tracking and remediation coordination for cybersecurity compliance. Collaborate with teams to analyze findings, manage remediation tickets, and ensure accurate reporting for oper...
5 days ago
Vulnerability Management / ACAS Analyst (Journeyman)
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity by managing vulnerability tracking and remediation efforts. This role involves coordinating with various teams to ensure compliance and operatio...
6 days ago
Lead Information Security Engineer
$139K - $250K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity by designing secure architectures and leading initiatives to protect systems and infrastructure. Drive improvements in security posture while collaborating with teams...
3 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Unlock your potential by providing expert forensic analysis and support for cyber investigations, ensuring security operations align with established policies while mitigating insider threats and enha...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Empower security initiatives by bridging technical operations with product development. This role enhances payment processing security while collaborating cross-functionally to integrate marketable se...
2 weeks ago
Operational Technology Cyber Subject Matter Expert
$112K - $257K *
Lead transformative OT cybersecurity initiatives, guiding organizations to enhance resilience and operational continuity against evolving threats while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and i...
Reposted 6 days ago
$72K - $93K *
Shape your career by leading the installation of complex low voltage security systems. Oversee project timelines, budgets, and team coordination to ensure high-quality results and customer satisfactio...
Reposted 1 week ago
$150K - $180K *
Advance corporate security strategies by leading endpoint protection, device trust, and SaaS security. Collaborate cross-functionally to embed security into workflows while building and mentoring a dy...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
STS Endpoint Security Engineer
$91K - $170K *
Grow your career with a global team focused on engineering and implementing security solutions across multi-cloud and on-premise environments, ensuring compliance and innovation while collaborating wi...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Optimize security engineering services to enhance software assurance through the design and deployment of a DevSecOps environment, ensuring compliance and security posture management against cyber thr...
3 weeks ago
$66K - $106K *
Help us ensure software quality by developing and executing automated test scripts, assisting in defect tracking, and supporting adherence to rigorous quality standards within an Agile environment...
Reposted yesterday
Senior Application Security Engineer
$160K - $305K *
Drive application security excellence through threat modeling, vulnerability management, and secure code reviews. Collaborate globally with developers to enhance AI system security and implement best...
Reposted 3 days ago
Cyber Security Subject Matter Expert
$120K - $185K *
Join a dynamic team to enhance cybersecurity offerings, leading initiatives in penetration testing, incident response, and security compliance. Collaborate with diverse teams to ensure robust security...
2 weeks ago
Software Engineer (Agent Security)
$130K - $155K *
Empower enterprise clients by building innovative AI security solutions. Collaborate cross-functionally to design robust security controls and develop tools that enhance customer experiences while sta...
1 week ago
Software Engineer (Agent Security)
$130K - $155K *
Transform enterprise security by building innovative AI solutions. Collaborate cross-functionally to design robust security controls and develop tools that enhance customer experiences while staying a...
1 week ago
$200K - $220K *
Elevate your career by leading enterprise security architecture strategies, driving Zero Trust implementations, and mentoring teams. Collaborate across functions to deliver innovative security solutio...
1 week ago
$200K - $220K *
Lead enterprise-wide security architecture strategy, driving Zero Trust implementation and AI/ML security initiatives. Collaborate with stakeholders to influence technology decisions and mentor teams...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Support our team by defining and implementing effective performance testing strategies. Leverage your expertise in LoadRunner and NeoLoad to analyze results and mentor others, ensuring application per...
Reposted 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.