Cybersecurity jobs are growing fast, and one of the most exciting paths is penetration testing. Companies want people who can find and fix security gaps before hackers do. That’s why this field is full of chances to build a career.
In this guide, you’ll learn where to find these jobs, how to get noticed, and what skills really matter. Whether you’re new or already in tech, there’s a path for you.
Types of Penetration Testing Job Opportunities
There are many different forms of penetration testing, and choosing the right one for you depends on your experience level, goals, and working style. Some opportunities involve more day-to-day work while others present fast-paced challenges or allow freedom in work hours. With that said here is what to expect from the options:
In-house roles
Work full-time for a company, helping them assess and secure internal systems. These positions typically offer benefits, structure, and steady career growth.
Consulting roles
Join a company that provides penetration testing services to the whole host of clients. Here, you would be learning fast due to all the exposure to different tech environments and industries.
Freelance or contract
Work-by-project arrangement with diverse companies. You call the shots in working hours and fees, but you also handle client management and time of delivery.
Remote roles
More and more businesses, especially in cybersecurity, are hiring remotely. This means you could, for instance, work with clients or employers anywhere on the globe and mostly from anywhere any time of the day.
As the cybersecurity industry grows, so the opportunities. And many of them are aimed at further strengthening the security posture of an organization through regular and independent testing.
Identifying the Right Job Fit for Your Skills and Goals
Not every job is the right fit for every person. The key is knowing where you want to go and what role matches your skill level:
- Do you prefer technical testing or reporting and communication?
- Are you more interested in app security, networks, or cloud systems?
- Do you want to specialize in one industry like healthcare or finance?
Different paths lead to different outcomes. For example, a person considering high-pay freelance work should focus on cloud testing, while one concerned with job security may prefer in-house roles in the financial sector.
Understanding where each path can lead becomes easier when you explore how penetration testing jobs connect to broader cybersecurity career growth.
Best Places to Find Penetration Testing Job Openings
Finding the right job is more than just looking in the obvious locations. The best roles often get passed along in specific communities or niche sites that target the very heart of cybersecurity. Whenever searching smart, these are perhaps the best places to start with:
Cybersecurity-focused sites:
- CyberSecJobs.com – Excellent filter options tailored for offensive security jobs
- InfoSec Jobs – Often posts positions that don’t appear on mainstream boards
- Dice.com – While general tech, their advanced search is excellent for security roles
Security communities:
- The “OffSec” Discord server – Where members regularly post job openings
- r/netsec and r/AskNetsec subreddits – Weekly job threads
- LinkedIn #infosec and #pentesting groups – An opportunity to network directly with hiring managers
Company career pages:
- Check security firms like FireEye, Mandiant, Trustwave, and Bishop Fox
- Don’t overlook major tech companies’ security teams (Google, Microsoft, etc.)
Specialized recruiters:
- CyberSN – Exclusively focused on cybersecurity
- Heller Search Associates – Specializes in senior security positions
Crafting a Resume That Stands Out in Cybersecurity
Your resume is one of your most important tools in landing a penetration testing job. It should clearly show what you’ve done—not just what you know. Here’s what matters most:
- Certifications: Include relevant credentials like OSCP, CEH, or GPEN.
- Hands-on experience: Mention projects, labs, bug bounty reports, or CTFs.
- Clear achievements: Don’t just list tasks. Share outcomes, like vulnerabilities found or systems improved.
When you apply, tailor your resume to the role. If it’s focused on application testing, put your web app skills front and center.
Certifications like OSCP and GPEN not only help you qualify for roles, they also reflect a tester’s ability to deliver results in real-world scenarios.
Creating an Impressive Portfolio for Penetration Testing Jobs
A strong portfolio helps you stand out. It proves your skills and shows your approach. Here’s what to include:
- Writeups of past tests or simulated labs (sanitize any sensitive info)
- CTF walkthroughs with your methodology clearly explained
- Public repos with scripts or tools you’ve built or modified
Blogging or sharing your thoughts on real security issues also adds credibility. It shows you understand the “why,” not just the “how.”
Preparing for Penetration Testing Job Interviews
Interviews for pen testing jobs can be technical. Expect questions about tools, techniques, and processes. Here’s how to prep:
- Know your workflow: Be ready to explain how you approach testing—from reconnaissance to exploitation to reporting.
- Stay current: Read up on recent breaches or security news.
- Be practical: You don’t need textbook answers. You need to show how you think and solve problems.
Landing Your First Penetration Testing Job: Entry-Level Strategies
Breaking into cybersecurity isn’t always easy, but there are smart ways to do it:
- Start with related roles: Entry-level SOC analyst, security researcher, or helpdesk with security duties.
- Internships and apprenticeships: These are more common than you think and offer real training.
- Certs and portfolios: OSCP or even eJPT can make a huge difference, especially when backed by a strong GitHub or blog.
And don’t stress too much about starting pay. Realistic expectations around starting pay can help you focus on skill-building first, especially as pay grows with experience in the penetration testing field.
Advanced Job Search Strategies for Experienced Penetration Testers
If you’ve been in the game a while, here’s how to level up:
- Tap your network: Reach out to past clients or colleagues.
- Let recruiters find you: Keep LinkedIn updated and optimize your title and skills.
- Consider moving into red teaming, consulting, or cloud security roles with bigger scopes and budgets.
- Create thought leadership content: Senior-level hiring managers notice people who speak confidently about their craft.
International Penetration Testing Opportunities
Cybersecurity is global. You’re not limited to your country. Many international firms hire remote penetration testers:
- Europe: The UK, Germany, and the Netherlands are strong tech hubs.
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, Singapore, and Japan are increasing cybersecurity budgets.
- US-based companies: Many now allow international applicants for remote roles.
Tailor your applications to the region’s expectations, especially with resume format and communication style.
Navigating Career Changes Within Cybersecurity
With the appropriate transition plan, even non-technical roles can also lead to opportunities to become a tester. If you are comfortable in an IT or security role, you are already halfway there. Such a transition could facilitate the following:
- From SOC to offensive: Your knowledge of detection helps you know what attackers look for.
- From sysadmin to tester: Understanding systems makes exploitation easier.
- From compliance to testing: You already know what needs to be protected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Penetration Testing Job Search
Focus on roles that align with your current stage while pushing you to grow. Watch out for these pitfalls:
- Applying to jobs that don’t match your current skills or interests
- Using a generic resume for every role
- Ignoring community-driven job leads (they’re often the best ones)
- Underestimating soft skills like communication and reporting
Final Thoughts: Your Penetration Testing Career Starts Here
There’s no “perfect” way to land a job in this field—but there are plenty of smart moves. Focus on real skills, keep improving your portfolio, and stay connected with the community.
The demand is high, and the opportunities are real. Whether you’re starting out or leveling up, your next job in penetration testing is out there.
If you want to better understand how these roles impact businesses, penetration testing has become a strategic part of how businesses improve their cybersecurity posture over time.
