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.
Offensive Security Technical Lead
$105K - $231K *
Drive offensive security initiatives by leading penetration testing and red-team efforts. Own complex technical engagements, ensuring robust assessments and impactful remediation strategies for federa...
Reposted 1 week ago
Technical Pre-Sales Specialist
$80K - $95K *
Unlock potential by serving as a key technical resource, collaborating with Sales and Business Development teams to engage customers, support early-stage sales, and develop essential product knowledge...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Optimize project delivery within cybersecurity engagements by managing scopes, timelines, and stakeholder relationships. Ensure alignment with regulatory frameworks and facilitate continuous improveme...
4 weeks ago
$80K - $128K *
Join a dynamic team to conduct in-depth cyber forensics investigations, analyze malware, and present findings. Collaborate with experts to enhance network defenses and mentor junior analysts, ensuring...
1 week ago
Lead Application Security Engineer
$200K - $260K *
Join us to enhance application security capabilities, collaborating with engineering teams to implement robust security measures, conduct reviews, and lead threat modeling efforts in a dynamic, innova...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Deliver comprehensive SIEM solutions by analyzing security incidents, developing use cases, and collaborating with leadership to enhance cybersecurity measures and optimize performance across the ente...
1 week ago
Principal Threat Researcher (Unit 42)
$172K - $278K *
Transform national security by leading advanced threat research initiatives. Utilize your expertise in cyber threats to analyze data, mentor analysts, and deliver actionable insights during critical c...
5 days ago
$140K - $155K *
Deliver your expertise to enhance the security posture of Cloud Service Providers. Engage in comprehensive architecture reviews, compliance assessments, and technical consultations within a collaborat...
3 weeks ago
Platform Tester - (Back-End Systems)
$86K - $115K *
Elevate the quality of healthcare technology by owning test strategies for platform components, enhancing automation, and ensuring stability across releases. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to...
2 weeks ago
Advanced Specialist, Security Engineer
$80K - $125K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity by leading technical efforts in sovereign security. Collaborate with teams to ensure compliance with global regulations, mentor engineers, and drive innovative soluti...
Today
IT Security Vulnerability Specialist (0036)
$110K - $130K *
Transform your career by leading vulnerability management efforts in a dynamic cybersecurity environment. Collaborate with teams to enhance security protocols and ensure compliance while driving impac...
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Senior Security Engineer, Offensive Security
$194K - $312K *
Join a team that's redefining security by driving offensive strategies to protect products and infrastructure. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement proactive security solutions and enh...
3 weeks ago
$130K - $155K *
Lead the design and implementation of advanced DevSecOps solutions, ensuring seamless integration with cloud infrastructures. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable, secure system...
Reposted 5 days ago
Senior Offensive Security Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Transform your career by leading network penetration tests and innovating AI red team practices in this critical role. Engage clients independently and shape methodologies for a fast-evolving cybersec...
3 weeks ago
Member of Technical Staff, Vulnerability Management
$200K - $400K *
Join a dynamic team to optimize vulnerability management for AI infrastructure. You'll investigate security reports, collaborate with experts, and implement best practices to ensure the integrity and...
3 weeks ago
$180K - $249K *
Unlock potential by conducting advanced vulnerability research on embedded systems. Collaborate with a skilled team to reverse engineer, analyze firmware, and develop innovative exploits that enhance...
2 weeks ago
$120K - $150K *
Shape the security landscape by actively mitigating risks in application, infrastructure, and corporate security. Collaborate cross-functionally while addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing the robu...
4 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Develop your expertise in security as you tackle risks across application, infrastructure, and corporate domains. Join a dynamic team that balances security measures with business needs while protecti...
4 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform the future of telecommunications and security design by leading project initiatives, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and delivering innovative solutions that meet client needs an...
2 weeks ago
Member of Technical Staff, Application Security
$180K - $300K *
Drive security innovation by embedding robust protections into our AI-native platform. Collaborate with engineers to design, implement, and review security measures that safeguard user data and ensure...
2 weeks ago
Member of Technical Staff, Application Security
$180K - $300K *
Transform security practices by embedding robust protections into AI-native products. Collaborate with engineers to design, implement, and review security measures that safeguard user data and ensure...
2 weeks ago
Practice Lead - Operational Technology Security
$161K - $319K *
Transform the future of cybersecurity by leading our Operational Technology Security Consulting business, driving growth, and fostering strategic client relationships while ensuring the security of cr...
1 week ago
Practice Lead - Operational Technology Security
$161K - $319K *
Lead the charge in defining and expanding the Operational Technology Security Consulting business, driving client relationships and large-scale delivery while fostering talent growth and enhancing cyb...
1 week ago
Practice Lead - Operational Technology Security
$161K - $319K *
Lead the charge in defining and growing the Operational Technology Security Consulting business, driving client relationships and large-scale delivery while evolving cybersecurity offerings to secure...
1 week ago
Practice Lead - Operational Technology Security
$161K - $319K *
Transform the landscape of Operational Technology Security Consulting by leading market development, client relationships, and large-scale delivery. Drive growth and innovation while securing critical...
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.