Penetration Testers on Upwork cost $60–$120/hr.

A full-time Penetration Tester salary usually starts at $115,000.

Penetration Testers are cybersecurity professionals who assess the security of computer systems, networks, and applications by simulating attacks. Hiring a skilled Penetration Tester on Upwork can help businesses identify vulnerabilities in their digital infrastructure and strengthen their security defenses while working within their budget.

How much does it cost to hire a Penetration Tester on Upwork?

The cost of hiring a Penetration Tester on Upwork can range from $60 to over $150 per hour, depending on several factors.

Experience and Expertise

The experience and expertise of the Penetration Tester significantly influence the cost.

Entry-Level Penetration Tester: Testers new to the field typically charge $60 to $80 per hour. While they may have completed the necessary training for this position, they may not have served as Penetration Testers for organizations at full capacity. 

Intermediate-Level Penetration Tester: Testers with a few years of experience charge $80 to $120 per hour.

Expert-Level Penetration Tester: Seasoned testers with extensive experience and specialized certifications may charge $120 to over $150 per hour.

Scope of Work

The complexity and depth of the penetration testing project can affect the overall cost. Basic vulnerability assessments and penetration tests will be less expensive than comprehensive red teaming exercises or targeted application security testing.

Timeline

Urgent penetration testing needs or projects with tight deadlines may come with higher costs.

Geography

The location of the Penetration Tester can also impact the cost, with professionals from high-cost regions typically charging more.

Popular Penetration Tester Projects & Cost Examples

Here are a few examples of common projects and their typical costs:

Network Vulnerability Assessment: A network vulnerability assessment can cost between $2,000 and $5,000. How complex and extensive the network is will determine the project's final cost.

Web Application Penetration Testing: Performing a comprehensive web application penetration test can range from $5,000 to over $10,000. A Penetration Tester will need to determine the project's number of applications and complexity before setting a final price. 

Social Engineering Testing: Using social engineering tests to assess human vulnerabilities can cost between $3,000 and $8,000. How much customization is involved? What is the scale of the project? You’ll need to answer these questions for a more accurate final cost. 

Hiring a Penetration Tester on Upwork allows businesses to proactively identify and address security weaknesses. With a diverse pool of experienced professionals available, you can find the right Penetration Tester within your budget.