Career profile · SOC 15-1299.04

Penetration Testers

Evaluate 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.

Median salary
$108,970
per year
Growth outlook
Faster Than Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
Bachelor's degree
AI exposure
8.1/10
automation risk

Salary distribution (US)

Real salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The p10–p90 spread tells you more than the median alone.

Bottom 10%
$54,360
25th %ile
$74,960
Median
$108,970
75th %ile
$130,090
Top 10%
$162,440

Top skills

Critical Thinking Active Learning Complex Problem Solving Programming Systems Analysis Reading Comprehension Judgment and Decision Making Active Listening Writing Operations Analysis

Knowledge you'll build

  • Computers and Electronics
  • Mathematics
  • English Language
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Design
  • Administration and Management
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Education and Training
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