Explore This Path

Penetration Tester

💰 Earn $81K-$169K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 24–48 Month Training

📈 8.2% Job Growth

Exciting role for those passionate about cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
Protect organizations by identifying and fixing security vulnerabilities.
Use creative problem-solving to outsmart cyber threats and safeguard data.

What Penetration Testers DoEvaluate network system security by conducting simulated internal and external cyberattacks using adversary tools and techniques. Attempt to breach and exploit critical systems and gain access to sensitive information to assess system security.

Assess the physical security of servers, systems, or network devices to identify vulnerability to temperature, vandalism, or natural disasters.
Collect stakeholder data to evaluate risk and to develop mitigation strategies.
Conduct network and security system audits, using established criteria.
Configure information systems to incorporate principles of least functionality and least access.
Design security solutions to address known device vulnerabilities.

Penetration Testers Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationBachelor Degree

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time2 to 4 years

Job Openings31,300 Annually

Median Earnings

$128,750 in California

$108,970 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@iamjustvick

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

you value

Having support
Having freedom
Job security

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Complex Problem Solving

Go Deeper: Penetration Testers Explained

Penetration TesterExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Professional UpskillingProfessional upskilling typically results in acquiring new or enhanced skills and knowledge relevant to a participant's current job or desired career path, leading to improved job performance, opportunities for career advancement, and greater employability.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 1 week - 3 months

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

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