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

$110K - $130K *

Pioneer scalable automation solutions by designing reusable frameworks and validating complex integrations. Collaborate on backend systems to enhance data integrity and performance, driving efficiency...

Toronto, ONIn-Person

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$185K - $255K *

Join a team that's shaping the future of AI security solutions by architecting innovative workflows and integrating advanced technologies to enhance safety and efficiency across enterprise environment...

1 week ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$100K - $215K *

Champion cyber network operations by leveraging your expertise to plan, execute, and prepare target packages. Collaborate with teams to enhance mission success and drive innovative solutions in a dyna...

Today

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$70K - $130K *

Partner with us to support all phases of Delivery Operations, engaging in MTE activities across various operations. Thrive in a dynamic environment, adapting to changing priorities while ensuring miss...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$167K - $212K *

Lead the charge in securing cloud environments through detection engineering, incident response, and automation. Collaborate with teams to enhance security operations and develop AI-driven solutions f...

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Energy & Utilities

$180K - $220K *

Lead the technical orchestration of a major client migration, fostering relationships and ensuring the success of the Kraken platform adoption. Shape dynamic strategies while addressing complex techni...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$90K - $100K *

Transform business needs into actionable requirements, driving system enhancements and operational improvements. Collaborate across teams to ensure clarity and alignment, leveraging data analysis and...

United StatesRemote

4 days ago

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

$108K - $130K *

Join us to lead cybersecurity initiatives as a Senior Cybersecurity Infrastructure Engineer. You'll ensure compliance with DoD directives while managing complex systems and networks in a remote enviro...

2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Business Services

$85K - $110K *

Advance your career by overseeing information security governance, managing cyber risks, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Collaborate with stakeholders to enhance security measures and...

Reposted 6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$80K - $100K *

Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity compliance for federal data. In this role, you'll evaluate submissions, guide analysts, and ensure adherence to NIST standards while managing a...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$126K - $188K *

Join a team that's redefining security data engineering by integrating and operationalizing data across multiple platforms. Lead initiatives that enhance risk management and drive measurable outcomes...

Minnesota, USRemote

Yesterday

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Finance & Insurance

$95K - $115K *

Lead the charge in ensuring software quality by managing testing processes, collaborating with stakeholders, and implementing best practices to enhance efficiency and productivity across multiple proj...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Business Services

$135K - $216K *

Lead the charge in ensuring optimal performance of Linux environments while enhancing security measures and automating processes. Collaborate with teams to support mission-critical systems within clas...

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Join a team that's dedicated to safeguarding enterprise technology and operations. As an IT Security Analyst, you'll assess risks, respond to incidents, and implement security strategies to protect ag...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Join a team that's dedicated to safeguarding enterprise technology and operations. As an IT Security Analyst, you'll conduct risk assessments, manage security incidents, and implement robust cybersecu...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Transform the cybersecurity landscape by safeguarding enterprise technology and operations. Lead risk assessments, incident response, and security strategy implementation to protect against evolving t...

3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$75K - $100K *

Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing customer satisfaction through expert support in quoting, sourcing, and delivering solutions. Collaborate across departments to streamline processes and ensure...

Today

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$125K - $135K *

Shape the future of physical security design across global data centers. Lead the development of design standards, oversee complex projects, and ensure compliance with security measures while collabor...

1 week ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$120K - $150K *

Lead a dynamic team to innovate and execute bold, cross-channel campaigns that elevate brand presence and drive measurable growth in a fast-paced environment. Collaborate with various departments to c...

Boston, MARemote

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Information Technology

$147K - $184K *

Shape the future of product security by leading OT cybersecurity architecture, ensuring secure design across systems and collaborating with teams to enhance security practices and compliance in a dyna...

Reposted 2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$147K - $184K *

Unlock potential by leading OT Product Security architecture, ensuring robust cybersecurity across diverse environments. Collaborate with teams to embed security throughout product lifecycles, driving...

Reposted 2 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$147K - $184K *

Shape the future of product security by leading OT cybersecurity architecture, ensuring robust protection for Dematic's solutions. Collaborate across teams to embed security throughout the product lif...

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$147K - $184K *

Optimize product security architecture by leading strategic initiatives across OT environments. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust cybersecurity measures, enhancing product integ...

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$147K - $184K *

Join a dynamic team to architect robust OT product security solutions, ensuring secure design and compliance across diverse environments. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance cybersecuri...

3 weeks ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$178K - $188K *

Transform your career by leading agile practices and coaching teams to enhance collaboration and efficiency in a dynamic environment. Leverage your extensive experience to drive successful program man...

4 days ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Information 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.