What Does a Penetration Tester Do?
A penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who simulates real-world attacks on networks, systems, applications, and devices to uncover security weaknesses. By using the same techniques as malicious hackers, they identify vulnerabilities that could lead to data breaches, financial losses, or service disruptions. Penetration testers apply both automated scanning tools and manual exploitation techniques to assess how well defenses hold up against potential threats.
Beyond conducting tests, penetration testers document their findings and provide detailed reports to IT and executive teams, explaining risks in business terms and recommending security improvements. Their work is crucial in industries where sensitive data must remain protected, such as healthcare, finance, and government. By proactively identifying and closing security gaps, penetration testers help organizations strengthen defenses, maintain compliance, and build trust with stakeholders.
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Penetration Tester Core Responsibilities
- Conduct penetration tests on networks, web applications, APIs, mobile apps, and hardware
- Use both automated tools and manual techniques to identify security vulnerabilities
- Attempt exploitation of vulnerabilities to demonstrate potential impact
- Develop scripts or tools to aid in testing and exploitation
- Prepare detailed reports outlining findings, risk levels, and remediation steps
- Collaborate with security teams to help prioritize and implement fixes
- Stay current on emerging threats, exploits, and hacking techniques
- Conduct follow-up tests to verify remediation efforts were successful
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency with penetration testing tools (Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark, etc.)
- Strong understanding of networking, operating systems, and security protocols
- Ability to write and analyze code/scripts in Python, PowerShell, Bash, or similar
- Familiarity with cloud platforms and testing in virtualized environments
Soft skills
- Analytical and problem-solving mindset with a “hacker’s perspective”
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in high-pressure environments
- Detail-oriented approach with strong documentation practices
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information security, or a related field typically required
- An associate’s degree combined with relevant certifications and experience may be accepted
Certifications
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) – highly regarded
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – widely recognized
- CompTIA PenTest+ – foundational penetration testing credential
- Additional certifications recommended for career advancement include CISSP, GIAC GPEN, and CREST certifications
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of hands-on cybersecurity or penetration testing experience
- Experience performing red team assessments or advanced adversarial simulations
- Background in secure software development or reverse engineering
- Familiarity with compliance frameworks such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, or NIST
National Average Salary
Penetration tester salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Penetration Tester is:
$98,560
Sample Job Description Templates for Penetration Testers
Entry-Level Penetration Tester
Position Overview
We are hiring an entry-level penetration tester to support cybersecurity assessments and vulnerability testing. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong technical foundation in IT and security concepts who want to begin a career in ethical hacking. Entry-level testers will assist senior team members with test planning, tool execution, and documentation.
Responsibilities
- Support penetration tests on applications, networks, and systems under supervision
- Run automated vulnerability scans and assist in analyzing results
- Learn and apply common penetration testing tools and frameworks
- Assist with documentation of findings and remediation recommendations
- Stay updated on current threats, exploits, and testing methodologies
- Collaborate with senior testers and security teams during engagements
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with penetration testing tools (e.g., Nmap, Burp Suite, Wireshark)
- Basic understanding of TCP/IP networking, operating systems, and security protocols
- Ability to write simple scripts in Python, Bash, or PowerShell
Soft skills
- Strong willingness to learn and grow in cybersecurity
- Attention to detail in testing and documentation
- Team-oriented mindset with good communication skills
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information security, or related field preferred
- An associate’s degree with certifications may be accepted
Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA PenTest+ – entry-level certifications recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or practical experience in cybersecurity or IT support
- Exposure to vulnerability management or security assessments
Mid-Level Penetration Tester
Position Overview
We are seeking a mid-level penetration tester to conduct independent penetration tests and support advanced assessments. This role requires hands-on testing experience and the ability to identify, exploit, and document vulnerabilities across networks and applications.
Responsibilities
- Perform penetration tests on web, network, and cloud environments
- Identify and exploit vulnerabilities using manual and automated techniques
- Document detailed findings with risk ratings and remediation guidance
- Collaborate with developers and IT staff to validate fixes and retest
- Stay informed about new exploits, attack vectors, and security tools
- Mentor entry-level testers on tools and methodologies
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with penetration testing frameworks (Metasploit, Burp Suite Pro, etc.)
- Knowledge of secure coding, OWASP Top 10, and exploit development
- Experience with scripting languages (Python, Ruby, PowerShell, Bash)
Soft skills
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities
- Effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Ability to work independently on client engagements
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or related field required
Certifications
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–4 years of professional experience in penetration testing or cybersecurity
- Experience performing assessments for compliance frameworks (PCI DSS, HIPAA, NIST)
Senior Penetration Tester
Position Overview
We are hiring a senior penetration tester to lead complex penetration testing engagements and serve as a subject matter expert in ethical hacking. The role requires advanced technical expertise, the ability to simulate real-world attack scenarios, and a strong record of delivering detailed findings to leadership.
Responsibilities
- Plan and execute advanced penetration tests and red team exercises
- Develop custom exploits and scripts to bypass security controls
- Conduct social engineering or physical security tests as needed
- Lead client debriefs and provide executive-level reporting
- Serve as a mentor for junior and mid-level testers
- Support pre-sales efforts with technical expertise when required
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of penetration testing tools and exploit frameworks
- Ability to write custom scripts and tools for exploitation
- Deep understanding of security protocols, cloud environments, and advanced attack techniques
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to present findings to executives and non-technical audiences
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in information security, computer science, or related field required
Certifications
- OSCP required
- Additional advanced certifications such as OSCE, GPEN, or CREST recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of professional penetration testing experience
- Demonstrated ability to lead multi-phase security assessments
Lead Penetration Tester
Position Overview
We are seeking a lead penetration tester to oversee penetration testing engagements, coordinate testing strategies, and ensure high-quality reporting. This leadership role requires advanced technical expertise as well as project coordination skills to guide teams through complex assessments.
Responsibilities
- Lead penetration testing projects from scoping to final reporting
- Assign tasks and review work of team members
- Provide technical oversight and ensure consistent methodology use
- Collaborate with clients to define testing objectives and goals
- Present detailed findings and remediation recommendations to stakeholders
- Develop internal processes and improve testing frameworks
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of penetration testing techniques and exploit development
- Experience managing projects and coordinating technical teams
- Strong ability to review and validate technical testing results
Soft skills
- Leadership and team management abilities
- Strong communication with both technical staff and executives
- Ability to manage deadlines across multiple projects
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in information security, computer science, or related field required
Certifications
- OSCP required
- OSCE, GXPN, or equivalent advanced certification highly recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 6–8 years of penetration testing experience, including prior leadership responsibilities
- Experience developing internal testing methodologies or toolsets
Penetration Testing Team Manager
Position Overview
We are hiring a penetration testing team manager to oversee a group of penetration testers, manage department operations, and coordinate client-facing projects. This role balances leadership, project management, and technical expertise to ensure high-quality penetration testing services.
Responsibilities
- Manage penetration testing staff, including hiring, training, and performance evaluations
- Assign projects and monitor progress to meet client expectations
- Oversee budget planning, resource allocation, and team scheduling
- Serve as escalation point for complex technical and client issues
- Collaborate with executives to define penetration testing strategy and objectives
- Ensure compliance with industry standards and frameworks
Requirements
Hard skills
- Deep understanding of penetration testing methodologies and compliance frameworks
- Strong project and people management experience
- Familiarity with industry regulations such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, and ISO 27001
Soft skills
- Leadership and team development skills
- Strong communication with both technical teams and executive stakeholders
- Ability to manage multiple client engagements simultaneously
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, IT, or business management required
Certifications
- OSCP or CEH required
- CISSP or CISM recommended for leadership roles
Preferred Qualifications
- 8+ years of experience in penetration testing, with at least 2 in management
- Experience building or scaling penetration testing teams
Principal Penetration Tester
Position Overview
We are seeking a principal penetration tester to act as a top-level technical expert, driving innovation and thought leadership within the organization’s cybersecurity practice. This role involves handling the most complex assessments, developing methodologies, and representing the organization at industry events.
Responsibilities
- Lead advanced penetration tests and red team operations
- Develop new testing methodologies, tools, and frameworks
- Provide subject matter expertise for strategic security initiatives
- Act as a technical advisor to executives and clients on emerging threats
- Mentor and coach senior and lead penetration testers
- Contribute to research, white papers, and conference presentations
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in penetration testing, red teaming, and exploit development
- Ability to design and execute sophisticated attack simulations
- Strong research and tool development capabilities
Soft skills
- Visionary leadership and thought leadership qualities
- Strong presentation skills for technical and executive audiences
- Collaborative approach to working with leadership and cross-functional teams
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or related field required
- Master’s degree in cybersecurity or related discipline preferred
Certifications
- OSCP and at least one advanced certification (OSCE, GXPN, CREST) required
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of penetration testing experience, including leadership in advanced security projects
- Recognized expertise in the cybersecurity community through publications, speaking engagements, or research contributions