Explore Penetration Tester Jobs

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.

What Does a Penetration Tester Do?

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.

Skills and Qualifications

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.

Career Paths and Work Environments

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.

Find Penetration Tester Jobs on Ladders

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.

Remote
caret down
Compensation
caret down
Position Level
caret down
Time Posted
caret down
Industries
caret down
Locations
caret down
More
1
caret down

$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...

United StatesRemote

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Energy & Utilities

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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...

United StatesRemote

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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...

United StatesRemote

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Healthcare

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Education, Government & Non-Profit

$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...

Today

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$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...

RemoteRemote

4 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$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

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Real Estate & Construction

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$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...

Montreal, QCIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

$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...

Vancouver, BCIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

$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...

Ottawa, ONIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

$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...

Toronto, ONIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is a penetration tester?question toggle

    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?question toggle

    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?question toggle

    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?question toggle

    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?question toggle

    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.