Penetration Tester: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What You’ll Learn About Penetration Testers

What Does a Penetration Tester Do?
Key Duties & Responsibilities
How to Become a Penetration Tester
Penetration Tester Salary Guide
How to Advance Your Career
Typical Work Environment

What Does a Penetration Tester do?

A Penetration Tester, also known as an Ethical Hacker, is responsible for evaluating the security of an organization’s computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating cyberattacks.

They identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and potential entry points that could be exploited by malicious hackers. Penetration Testers use various tools and techniques to test the effectiveness of security controls, providing detailed reports with recommendations for remediation. Their role is crucial in helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity defenses, protect sensitive data, and comply with industry regulations and standards.

Their work is essential in proactively identifying and addressing security risks, ensuring that the organization’s digital assets are safeguarded against potential cyber threats.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Penetration Testers in the IT & Development field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

Conduct penetration testing on computer systems, networks, and web applications to identify security vulnerabilities.
Develop and execute test plans and scenarios that mimic real-world cyberattacks.
Use a variety of tools, such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Wireshark, to probe systems for weaknesses.
Document findings and provide detailed reports that outline vulnerabilities, risk levels, and recommended remediation steps.
Collaborate with IT and security teams to discuss vulnerabilities and assist in implementing security improvements.
Continuously update skills and knowledge of the latest hacking techniques, tools, and security trends.
Conduct retesting to verify that vulnerabilities have been properly addressed after remediation.
Provide training and guidance to staff on best practices for security and help raise awareness about cybersecurity threats.

How to Become a Penetration Tester

Launching a career as a Penetration Tester requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
Experience in ethical hacking, network security, or a related cybersecurity role.
Strong understanding of security principles, hacking techniques, and the cyber threat landscape.
Proficiency with penetration testing tools and techniques, as well as scripting languages like Python or Bash.
Relevant certifications, such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN), are highly advantageous.

Requirements & Skills

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and exploit system vulnerabilities.
Strong communication skills to clearly document findings and explain vulnerabilities to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the latest security threats and attack vectors.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team in a high-pressure environment.
Commitment to ethical hacking practices and maintaining the highest standards of professional integrity.

Penetration Tester Salary Guide

Wondering what Penetration Testers earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

Job	Branch	Avg. US Salary
Penetration Tester	IT & Development	95,000 USD

The average salary for a Penetration Tester in the U.S. is approximately $95,000 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Penetration Testers may receive a wide range of benefits.

Penetration Tester Salary Career Steps

Level	Experience	Avg. Salary per Year
Veteran	20+ years	$118,750
Senior	11+ years	$104,500
Experienced	6-10 years	$95,000
Mid Level	3-5 years	$85,500
Entry Level	0-2 years	$71,250

To explore more detailed salary information, including specific salary estimates in your country, visit the Penetration Tester Salary Country Overview.

How to Advance Your Career

Penetration Testers can advance to roles such as Senior Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, or Security Architect. With additional experience and certifications, they may also move into specialized areas such as red teaming, incident response, or cybersecurity management. Continuous professional development and staying updated with the latest hacking techniques and cybersecurity trends are crucial for career growth, leading to leadership positions within security teams or opportunities to work in high-profile cybersecurity firms or consulting roles.

Typical Work Environment

Penetration Testers typically work in office settings within cybersecurity teams, IT departments, or security consulting firms. The role involves conducting security tests, analyzing systems for vulnerabilities, and collaborating with other security professionals. Penetration Testers may work standard business hours, but the role can also require extended hours during critical testing phases or security incidents. The work environment is dynamic and requires a deep understanding of cybersecurity threats, as well as the ability to stay ahead of emerging attack methods and technologies.