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.

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$168K - $198K *

Transform customer security by collaborating with sales to identify needs, demonstrating solutions, and educating partners on best practices in cybersecurity. Drive engagement through meetings and eve...

Vancouver, WARemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$168K - $198K *

Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity solutions. Collaborate with sales to identify prospects, educate clients, and drive technical engagements, ensuring organizations are protected...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$168K - $198K *

Partner with us to drive customer engagement by delivering tailored security solutions, addressing technical challenges, and enhancing operational safety through expert collaboration with sales and pa...

Portland, ORRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$88K - $105K *

Join a dynamic team to enhance a Federal Agency's Physical Security Program by managing a cutting-edge testing lab. Collaborate with experts, evaluate innovative solutions, and contribute to a safer...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$80K - $95K *

Empower your career by driving quality assurance through automated testing and CI/CD practices. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance product reliability and performance while troubleshoo...

Calgary, ABIn-Person

5 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$80K - $95K *

Champion compliance and security by conducting CMMC assessments and providing expert advisory services. Collaborate with clients to ensure adherence to standards while delivering quality solutions on...

4 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$60K - $180K *

Develop and execute comprehensive test plans, troubleshoot issues, and enhance system integration for advanced technologies. Collaborate with teams to optimize testing processes and ensure high-qualit...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$135K - $160K *

Create innovative backend solutions that handle millions of requests daily, ensuring reliability and scalability. Act as an API steward, optimizing for developer experience as the system grows and mee...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$175K - $215K *

Transform pre-sales activities by leading a team of security engineers, engaging with customers, and developing tailored technical solutions to drive revenue growth and enhance client satisfaction in...

Toronto, ONIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$95K - $115K *

Transform your career by implementing robust information security programs. Ensure data protection and compliance while collaborating with IT teams to mitigate risks and enhance security measures acro...

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$145K - $185K *

Join our team as a Cybersecurity Threat Hunter to proactively identify and investigate threats in a complex enterprise environment, collaborating with various teams to enhance security measures and re...

Reposted 2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Engage in strategic partner ecosystem development to drive revenue growth and create innovative channel programs for sustained business success. Manage regional channel business and enhance existing p...

United StatesRemote

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$120K - $145K *

Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing security by designing and implementing enterprise solutions. Collaborate across functions to protect systems and data while leading incident response efforts...

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$125K - $150K *

Lead the charge in cybersecurity as a strategic Growth Lead, driving engagement and partnership with US Cyber Command and the Cyber Mission Force to tackle complex operational challenges and enhance n...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$200K - $250K *

Lead the development of a comprehensive security strategy, integrating physical and digital defenses. Oversee security operations across manufacturing facilities, ensuring compliance and risk manageme...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$87K - $168K *

Champion security excellence by managing special access program operations, ensuring compliance, conducting risk assessments, and collaborating with diverse teams to protect sensitive information and...

Today

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Partner with us to enhance our security posture by managing risks and implementing solutions across cloud environments, applications, and CI/CD pipelines. Ideal for adaptable security enthusiasts look...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$130K - $155K *

Unlock potential by leading security initiatives and shaping strategy. Collaborate with teams to design and implement robust security solutions, ensuring alignment with business goals and compliance s...

Florida, USRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$130K - $155K *

Join our team as a Principal Security Engineer, where you'll design and enhance security solutions, shape strategy, and lead initiatives to protect enterprise assets while mentoring junior engineers a...

Pennsylvania, USRemote

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$110K - $140K *

Optimize AI security by deploying runtime enforcement and adversarial testing. Collaborate with financial services teams to enhance model risk management and ensure robust security measures across AI...

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$125K - $150K *

Optimize cloud security and deployment processes by leveraging AWS, CI/CD, and DevSecOps practices. Collaborate with teams to enhance infrastructure, automate security, and ensure seamless Salesforce...

5 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$108K - $130K *

Join a dynamic team to enhance cybersecurity measures, conduct assessments, and provide expert analysis. Collaborate on security operations, develop strategies, and ensure compliance while safeguardin...

6 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$110K - $130K *

Join a team that's dedicated to excellence in security and compliance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive quality and innovation while taking ownership of impactful projects in a dynamic...

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$165K - $205K *

Join a dynamic team as you enhance product security through best practices, mentoring, and collaboration. Drive innovation in a Zero-Trust environment while ensuring secure code delivery and complianc...

4 days ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$150K - $180K *

Lead the charge in securing backend systems by designing encryption, managing identities, and ensuring compliance. Collaborate with a small team to enhance user privacy and build robust security pract...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

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.