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.
$150K - $180K *
Unlock potential by designing secure AI platforms that empower teams to automate workflows seamlessly. Lead security integration into development processes, ensuring robust protection while enabling r...
1 week ago
Insider Threat Information Systems Security - Senior Data Analyst
$110K - $130K *
Lead insider threat detection initiatives, analyze data to identify risks, and enhance security measures across information systems. Collaborate with teams to investigate incidents and develop proacti...
Reposted 1 week ago
$120K - $145K *
Pioneer advanced cybersecurity solutions, enhancing Zero Trust initiatives and supporting security operations across diverse environments. Collaborate with teams to ensure compliance, incident respons...
2 weeks ago
Security Technical Product Manager
$131K - $170K *
Join a dynamic team driving security initiatives, enhancing application security, and ensuring compliance with SOC 2 and FedRAMP. Collaborate with engineering and compliance to embed security best pra...
Reposted 3 days ago
$95K - $115K *
Drive the detection and mitigation of advanced cybersecurity threats, overseeing incident response and threat hunting while enhancing security processes and mentoring team members to protect digital a...
3 weeks ago
$82K - $173K *
Architect innovative RF testing solutions to enhance national security. Collaborate with a leading R&D team to develop and validate critical systems, ensuring safety and compliance while executing com...
Yesterday
Security Engineer - Endpoint Vulnerability Management
$74K - $116K *
Join a team that's enhancing endpoint security and vulnerability management. Collaborate on assessing risks, coordinating remediation, and automating security processes while contributing to enterpris...
6 days ago
Security Engineer - Endpoint Vulnerability Management
$74K - $116K *
Drive endpoint security initiatives by assessing vulnerabilities, coordinating remediation, and enhancing security protocols. Collaborate across teams to ensure robust protection and compliance while...
6 days ago
Senior Security Engineer, Device
$107K - $155K *
Champion the development of secure technologies for next-gen AI devices, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance product security and protect customer data through innovative software sol...
Reposted 4 days ago
Director of Product Management
$150K - $180K *
Lead the charge in steering product management excellence, elevating team performance, and driving enterprise strategy to enhance product quality and market success through collaborative stakeholder e...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead U.S. engineering efforts for a cloud-based platform, focusing on production support, team management, and process optimization while collaborating across global teams to enhance incident response...
3 weeks ago
$69K - $158K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing software security by identifying vulnerabilities and implementing robust solutions. Collaborate with developers and engineers to ensure secure software practi...
3 days ago
$90K - $110K *
Join a team that's pivotal in testing and analyzing data for advanced X-ray technology. This hybrid role combines onsite collaboration and remote flexibility, focusing on data management, testing exec...
4 days ago
$130K - $150K *
Take ownership of hardware testing processes to ensure quality and reliability of embedded systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, execute, and improve test plans while utilizing a...
Today
$120K - $145K *
Lead the charge in shaping application security for our SaaS and AI products. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enforce security best practices, automate processes, and respond to vulnerabili...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Empower security at our dynamic SaaS and AI platform by leading secure practices, managing vulnerabilities, and orchestrating incident response. Collaborate with engineers to enhance product security...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)
$70K - $93K *
Unlock potential by developing innovative test automation solutions, evaluating tools, and implementing strategies across projects. Collaborate independently to deliver cost savings and enhance produc...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Drive cybersecurity excellence by identifying vulnerabilities and enhancing defenses. Collaborate with teams to implement offensive security strategies and leverage AI tools for effective threat manag...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Join a dynamic Cybersecurity team to enhance offensive security strategies, identify vulnerabilities, and implement best practices. Collaborate across functions to safeguard systems while adapting to...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Join our Cybersecurity team to enhance our offensive security strategy. You'll tackle vulnerabilities, coordinate penetration testing, and implement best practices to safeguard our systems while adapt...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Optimize cybersecurity strategies by identifying vulnerabilities and managing offensive security initiatives. Collaborate across teams to enhance defenses and ensure effective remediation of threats i...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Champion cybersecurity initiatives by identifying vulnerabilities and enhancing defenses. Collaborate with teams to implement offensive security strategies, manage risks, and ensure robust protection...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Deliver your expertise to enhance cybersecurity strategies, focusing on vulnerability management and offensive security. Collaborate globally to identify threats, implement best practices, and support...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Drive cybersecurity initiatives by identifying vulnerabilities and managing offensive security strategies. Collaborate across teams to enhance application security and respond to evolving threats, ens...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $100K *
Drive cybersecurity initiatives by identifying vulnerabilities and enhancing defenses. Collaborate with teams to implement offensive security strategies, manage penetration testing, and leverage AI to...
2 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.