Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester
Penetration testers are the so-called “ethical hackers,” or the good guys. Also known as assurance validators, penetration testers are hired by network system owners and web-based application providers to probe for vulnerabilities that hackers with nefarious intent might be able to exploit to gather secure data and intelligence.
Ethical hackers perform vulnerability assessments (along with other tasks) by exercising their skills and knowledge — and actually get paid to perform the equivalent of digital break-ins.
They simulate actual cyberattacks using a broad range of tools and methods, some of their own creation, leaving no stone unturned to unearth cracks in security protocols for networks, systems, and web-based applications.
The idea of a penetration test, or pen test for short, is to probe all possible ways to penetrate any given computer system, to find gaps in security systems BEFORE the real hackers can get in. As a result, pen testers often work on highly confidential and time-sensitive projects, so being trustworthy and cool under pressure are important skills.
Having the creativity to think on the fly, and being organized enough to track, record, and report on projects are also good qualities in penetration testing.
Penetration testers/ethical hackers are the private detectives of the information security universe. As with many PI operations, the task is to uncover threats before any potential invasive operators have a chance to implement their plans.
One of the basic truths of human nature generally, and digital information systems specifically, is that disreputable actors will always attempt to seize opportunities to take advantage of vulnerabilities. Pen testers seek to investigate, uncover, and aid in the repair of any potential vulnerabilities in wired and wireless network systems and web-based applications.
The push and pull between the pre-emptive work of ethical hackers and the efforts of real-life hackers is a constant arms race. Each side persistently attempts to advance their knowledge, skills, and techniques beyond the capabilities of the other side.
Pen testers utilize a strategy of offensive defense. The goal is to provide the best possible information security by offensively attacking computer systems as a real-life hacker would, thus beating the hacker to the punch and assisting in closing the vulnerability. The result will be the safeguarding of information and systems coming under attack.
Penetration tester skills and experience
Employer requirements of new hires in the penetration testing field, as in all cybersecurity disciplines, will vary dramatically depending upon the detailed functions of each position and the level of the position. Associate or junior pen testers, mid-level pen testers, and senior or lead pen testers obviously represent sequentially advancing experience levels and responsibilities within the penetration testing umbrella.
Some positions still require only a demonstration of relevant skills and an appropriate level of cybersecurity experience and knowledge. Increasingly, though, employers are seeking candidates with a bachelor’s degree in information security or related computer science degrees. Some more advanced positions require a master’s degree.
Work experience that often leads to careers in penetration testing includes software development and coding, security testing, vulnerability assessment, network engineer or administrator, security administrator.
Skill requirements likely to be encountered with employers include:
Knowledge of specific computer languages, such as:
Experience with network OS, Windows/ Linux/ MacOS, communications protocols, firewalls, IPS/IDS systems, virtual environments, data encryption, and mobile penetration testing of IOS/Android systems.
Knowledge of common pen test and application security tools, such as:
Common professional certifications often sought by employers include those available from: IEEE (Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers) OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional), SANS Technology Institute , GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification), and EC-Council .
Soft skills and experience sought by employers include: excellent communication skills; self-driven, creative, and resourceful; contributions to open source projects and bug bounty programs ; and familiarity with OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities.
Generally speaking, pen testers typically perform threat modeling, security assessments, and ethical hacking of networks, systems, and web-based applications. More specifically, assurance validation involves some or all of the following tasks:
Penetration/ethical hacking job scopes vary widely based on the employer and seniority level. Looking at stated responsibilities for senior-level positions provides insight into the eventual dream job for all ethical hackers. This real-life job description gives you an idea.
Information security needs become exponential more critical in organizations dealing with state secrets, such as military suppliers and national security organizations. This real-life job description was posted by a major US military equipment manufacturer for a senior-level pen test position.
Information security professionals will be in high and rapidly-growing demand for the foreseeable future. In fact, there is a significant shortage of infosec professionals in all disciplines, and the shortage is expected to persist for the foreseeable future. As networks, applications, and information needs become consistently more complicated and critical to business and state operations, these systems become more directly targeted and more vulnerable. Pen testers are at the forefront of technical expertise, acting most closely to the role of would-be attackers. Top pen testers are now highly prized among infosec operators, and there are no signs on the horizon that this perception will be diminished in any way.
In 2019, Payscale.com reports that Penetration Testers are making from about $55,000 to about $133,000 per annum, with an average annual salary of $82,500. Bonuses, commissions and profit-sharing add, on average, about $17,000 annually.
Looking for more information about careers in cybersecurity? LEARN MORE .
Copyright © 2022 · Cybersecurity Guide · All Rights Reserved

How to Become a Penetration Tester: 2022 Career Guide
Written by Coursera • Updated on Jul 13, 2022
In this video, we'll discuss what penetration testing or pentesting is and why it's important.
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Written by Coursera • Updated on Jul 13, 2022
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Learn more about what it takes to get started in this offensive cybersecurity role.
Penetration testers, or pen testers for short, perform simulated cyberattacks on a company’s computer systems and networks. These authorized tests help identify security vulnerabilities and weaknesses before malicious hackers have the chance to exploit them.
A career as a pen tester often starts with an entry-level cybersecurity position. In this article, we’ll go into more detail about what penetration testers do, why this in-demand cybersecurity career could be a good fit for you, and how to get started.
As a penetration tester, you’ll take a proactive, offensive role in cybersecurity by performing attacks on a company’s existing digital systems. These tests might use a variety of hacking tools and techniques to find gaps that hackers could exploit. Throughout the process, you’ll document your actions in detail and create a report on what you did and how successful you were at breaching security protocols.
The day-to-day tasks of a pen tester will vary depending on the organization. Here are some common tasks and responsibilities you may encounter in this role, all pulled from real job listings:
Perform tests on applications, network devices, and cloud infrastructures
Design and conduct simulated social engineering attacks
Research and experiment with different types of attacks
Develop methodologies for penetration testing
Review code for security vulnerabilities
Document security and compliance issues
Automate common testing techniques to improve efficiency
Write technical and executive reports
Communicate findings to both technical staff and executive leadership
Validate security improvements with additional testing
Penetration testers typically work in one of three environments.
In-house: As an in-house penetration tester, you work directly for a company or organization. This typically allows you to get to know the company’s security protocols well. You may also have more input into new security features and fixes.
Security firm: Some organizations hire an outside security firm to conduct penetration testing. Working for a security firm offers greater variety in the types of tests you’ll get to design and perform.
Freelance: Some penetration testers choose to work as freelancers. Choosing this path can give you greater flexibility in your schedule, but you may need to spend more time looking for clients early in your career.
The terms penetration testing and ethical hacking are sometimes used interchangeably in the cybersecurity world. But the two terms have slightly different meanings. Penetration testing focuses on locating security issues in specific information systems without causing any damage. Ethical hacking is a broader umbrella term that includes a wider range of hacking methods. You can think of penetration testing as one facet of ethical hacking. Both roles have overlap with a cybersecurity Red Team —the group that gives security feedback from the adversary's perspective.
As a penetration tester, you can earn a paycheck by legally hacking into security systems. It can be a fast-paced, exciting job if you have an interest in cybersecurity and problem solving. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the steps you might take to get your first job as a penetration tester.
Penetration testers need a solid understanding of information technology (IT) and security systems in order to test them for vulnerabilities. Skills you might find on a pen tester job description include:
Programming languages, especially for scripting (Python, BASH, Java, Ruby, Perl)
Linux, Windows, and MacOS environments
Technical writing and documentation
Today’s penetration testers have a range of tools to help make their jobs faster and more efficient. If you’re interested in becoming a pen tester, it can help to gain familiarity with one or more of these tools.
*Kali Linux: Popular pentesting operating system
*Nmap: Port scanner for network discovery
*Wireshark: Packet sniffer to analyze traffic on your network
*John the Ripper: Open-source password cracker
*Burp Suite: Application security testing tools
*Nessus: Vulnerability assessment tool
*OWASP ZAP Proxy: Web application security scanner
Get hands-on experience with some of these tools in two hours or less with a Guided Project on Coursera. Start with Wireshark for Basic Network Security Analysis or Web Application Security Testing with OWASP ZAP .
One of the best ways to start developing the skills you’ll need as a penetration tester is to enroll in a specialized course or training program. With these types of programs, you can learn in a more structured environment while building multiple skills at once.
If you’re new to cybersecurity, consider an option like the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate , which includes an entire unit on penetration testing and incident response. The entire program is online and at your own pace, so you can learn job-ready skills while working or managing life’s other responsibilities.
While it can be helpful to have a degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity, not all penetration testing jobs require a degree. Typically, your level of experience and ability to complete the task matter more than what degree (if any) you have. If you’re starting in cybersecurity without a related degree, it might be helpful to pursue a certification to validate your skills.
Cybersecurity certifications demonstrate to recruiters and hiring managers that you have the skills required to succeed in the industry. In addition to these more general cybersecurity certifications , you can also get certified in penetration testing or ethical hacking. Reputable certifications to consider include:
GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Earning one of these certifications generally requires passing an exam. Besides earning a credential for your resume, preparing for a certification exam can often help you develop your skill set as well.
Many companies want to hire penetration testers with previous experience. Luckily, there are ways to start gaining experience outside of the workplace. Many pen testing training programs include hands-on testing in simulated environments.
Another way to gain experience (and make your resume stand out) is to participate in bug bounty programs . In these programs, companies typically offer cash bonuses to independent pen testers and security researchers who find and report security flaws or bugs in their code. It’s an excellent way to test your skills and start networking with other security professionals. You can find a list of bounties on sites like Bugcrowd and HackerOne .
Finally, you’ll find several websites designed to allow penetration testers to legally practice and experiment through fun, gamified experiences. Here are a few to get you started:
Many penetration testers start out in more entry-level IT and cybersecurity roles before advancing into pen testing. If you want to pursue a career in pen testing, consider starting out in a role like network or systems administrator or information security analyst to start building your IT skills.
When you’re ready to begin applying for pen tester jobs, be sure to extend your search beyond the usual job sites. While LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter are excellent resources, you should also scan specialized cybersecurity job boards, like Dice and CyberSecJobs.com .
A career as a pen tester gives you the opportunity to apply your hacking skills for the greater good by helping organizations protect themselves from cyber criminals. It’s also an in-demand, high-paying career path.
Penetration testers in the US make an average salary of $102,405, according to Glassdoor in November 2021 [ 1 ]. Your salary will depend on a variety of factors, including your location, experience, education, and certifications. Some industries, like financial services and military contracting, tend to pay higher salaries than others.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 33 percent job growth for information security analysts, including penetration testers, between 2020 and 2030 [ 2 ]. This is much faster than the average for all occupations in the US.
As you gain experience as a penetration tester, you may advance to lead a pen testing team. Some penetration testers go on to become information security managers and may even move into executive roles.
Start building job-ready skills in cybersecurity with the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate on Coursera. Learn from top industry experts and earn a credential for your resume in less than six months.
While no two career paths are the same, it’s possible to transition into a pen testing role after gaining one to four years of work experience in IT and information security. ‎
You don’t necessarily need a related degree to work in penetration testing. Earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or information security could make you a more competitive candidate. ‎
Penetration testing requires a foundational knowledge of computers, networks, and computer security, as well as many technical skills. While this can seem intimidating at first, you can learn these skills and gain fluency in the related technologies with practice and persistence. ‎
As more technology moves to the cloud, so do many of the tasks of penetration testers. Many job sites list remote penetration tester roles—a trend that’s likely to continue as more companies switch to a remote work model after COVID-19. ‎
1. Glassdoor. " Penetration Tester Salaries , https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/penetration-tester-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm." Accessed November 24, 2021.
2. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Information Security Analysts , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm." Accessed November 24, 2021.
This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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