Penetration testers, also called pen testers, help organizations detect potential security risks in computer systems and networks. A career in penetration testing offers higher-than-average salaries in an in-demand field.<\/p>\r\n
Information security analysts perform similar duties to pen testers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a> (BLS) reports that information security analysts earned a median annual salary of $103,590 as of May 2020. <\/p>\r\n This guide discusses how to become a pen tester, what to expect from this field, and salary and career outlook data. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n In comparison to other computer science professionals, a penetration tester specializes in a narrow area of cybersecurity. They help protect their organizations' digital information from attack by finding system weaknesses before an attack occurs, otherwise known as vulnerability testing. <\/p>\r\n Penetration testers can save their employers from financial damage and loss of public trust that occurs after major data breaches. These professionals think like malicious hackers to find potential vulnerabilities and prevent future attacks.<\/p>\r\n Penetration testers often work within cybersecurity or information technology<\/a> (IT) teams. Important penetration testing skills include experience using hacking tools, coding and scripting, and an advanced understanding of vulnerabilities and operating systems. <\/p>\r\n Strong communication, interpersonal, and report writing abilities also help penetration testers excel in their careers. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\n Pen testers can earn high salaries. Payscale reports an average penetration tester salary of $87,440 as of September 2021. This figure significantly exceeds the national median salary<\/a> for all occupations of $41,950 reported by the BLS as of May 2020.<\/p>\r\n Entry-level penetration testers make less than experienced professionals. Compensation also varies by education, with penetration testers with higher degrees<\/a> typically earning more. Other factors that can influence salary include location, industry, and specialization area.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Penetration Tester<\/p>\n \r\n $87,440<\/p> Source: Payscale<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n\r\n Penetration tester salaries vary based on level of experience. Penetration testers with 20 or more years of experience make an average of $124,610 annually \u2014 about $57,000 more than the average salary for entry-level professionals. <\/p>\r\n Just gaining 1-4 years of experience can increase a penetration tester's salary significantly, from an average of $67,950 for an entry-level penetration tester to $81,230 for an early career professional.<\/p>\r\n The table below notes the average base annual salary by years of experience as of August 2021, according to Payscale. <\/p>\r\n\r\nWhat Does a Penetration Tester Do? <\/h2>\r\n
How Much Can You Earn as a Pen Tester?<\/h2>\r\n
Average Annual Salary, 2021<\/h3>\n
\r\nPenetration Tester Salary by Experience <\/h3>\r\n