Find the Best Penetration Testing Jobs

What does a Penetration Tester do?

A penetration tester or pentester is an individual who evaluates the security of networks or systems and detects flaws. As a pentester, you’ll begin by conducting reconnaissance on your client’s systems and searching for any potential vulnerabilities (vulnerability assessment). Then, you’ll try to infiltrate the systems by exploiting detected vulnerabilities and ultimately, gain access to critical assets. Once a pentester has completed identifying false positives generated by scanners or tools, they are responsible for presenting comprehensive reporting and providing guidance on security measures to the stakeholders.

Depending on the case, pentesters may be required to collaborate with a variety of internal stakeholders, such as security consultants and information security analysts to deliver high-quality penetration tests.

What skills do I need to become a Penetration Tester?

Penetration testers should have solid technical skills and an in-depth understanding of security systems to test them for vulnerabilities. Below are some of the skills that a typical penetration tester job requires:

• Comprehensive understanding of the HTTP protocol, system development lifecycle (SDLC), and web programming for multi-tier web applications and web services
• Intermediate knowledge of cryptography, application security frameworks, and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
• Experience with network security and network protocols, such as TCP/IP, IP/SEC, SMTP, DNS, etc., and network equipment, such as switches and routers
• Fundamental knowledge of security protocols, scripting (Bash/PowerShell), and programming languages (Python/C/C++/Java)
• Ability to think creatively and strategically to penetrate security systems
• Strong experience and understanding of intelligence processes, analytical methods, the intelligence cycle, intelligence collection plans, source, and information evaluation
• Experience dealing with post-incident analysis, remediation, and process improvement
• Knowledge of perimeter security solutions, like Firewall, IDS, IPS, UTM, WAFs, and security analysis tools is an asset
• Soft skills, including proven problem-solving and communication skills

What are the core Penetration Tester job responsibilities?

The everyday job responsibilities and duties of a penetration tester include:

• Conduct web application, API, mobile, and network penetration testing within the designated scope and rules of engagement
• Support research and innovation activities for intrusion detection and vulnerability scanning
• Use industry standard and proprietary software to conduct penetration testing, including Metasploit, Burp Suite, and WebInspect
• Test web services using manual in-depth testing methodologies and tools, including Kali Linux, Core Impact, Wireshark, Metasploit, NMAP, etc.
• Developing testing plans to successfully conduct application testing, infrastructure testing, scenario-based testing, process testing, and social engineering
• Perform advanced penetration tests (infrastructure, web/mobile applications) without supervision, lead Red Teaming engagements, own and run the key client and large-scale engagements
• Conduct elevated risk and sensitive ethical hacks of internally and externally hosted applications according to scope
• Execute structured attacks on cyber-physical systems within a white-hat laboratory
• Coordinate and execute system/network level pen tests and ethical hacking exercises
• Participate in incident response teams where appropriate and provide operational cyber intelligence support during ongoing incidents
• Analyze reports to understand threat campaign(s) techniques, and lateral movements and extract indicators of compromise (IOCs)

Should I get a Penetration Tester degree or certification?

Earning a degree or a professional certification can be advantageous and help you stand out as a penetration tester on Upwork. You may consider the education and training options below:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer networks, cyber security, information security, and information technology or another related technical discipline
• Certifications such as GIAC Web Application Penetration Testing (GWAPT), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), CompTIA PenTest+, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)