Junior Penetration Tester

Valiant Solutions

. Perform and lead penetration tests assessing customer systems .

Posted 11/1/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesJunior💰 $115,000 - $125,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Expertise in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment, with a strong understanding of NIST security controls and the ability to communicate technical findings effectively. Proficient in using various penetration testing tools and methodologies to support cybersecurity risk management programs.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Penetration Testing ExperienceNIST SP 800-53 Security ControlsKali Linux ProficiencyPenetration Testing Tools (Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit)Public Trust Clearance Eligibility

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Penetration TestingVulnerability AssessmentRoot Cause AnalysisComputer ForensicsTesting Methodology Development

Soft Skills

Clear CommunicationCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

Kali LinuxNmapBurp SuiteMetasploit

Certifications & Qualifications

CCNA Cyber OpsCCNA SecurityCEHCompTIA Cloud+CySA+GCIAGCIHGICSPSCYBERSecurity+ CE

Industry Keywords

NIST SP 800-53NIST SP 800-115PTESISSAFOWASP WSTGCybersecurity Risk Management

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

CloudCyber SecurityLinux

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Perform and lead penetration tests assessing customer systems
Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests of information systems
Identify vulnerabilities and develop recommended remediations satisfying mandated NIST SP 800-53 security controls
Evaluate vulnerabilities and perform root cause analysis using NIST SP 800-115, PTES, ISSAF, and OWASP WSTG
Report and demonstrate findings to system owners and engineers
Maintain Red Cell infrastructure
Develop or modify tools that automate discovery or exploitation
Apply computer and network forensics knowledge to testing activities
Research and maintain proficiency in tools, techniques, countermeasures, and trends in computer and network vulnerabilities, data hiding, and encryption
Develop testing methodology and present solutions across multiple complex assignments
Contribute to program deliverables and performance metrics
Support a federal customer’s cybersecurity risk management program

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Information Systems, Information Assurance, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field
An industry professional certification such as CCNA Cyber Ops, CCNA Security, CEH, CFR, CompTIA Cloud+, CySA+, GCIA, GCIH, GICSP, SCYBER, Security+ CE, or SSCP
3 to 5 years of penetration testing experience
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain the necessary clearance
Demonstrated experience with Kali Linux
Demonstrated experience with penetration testing tools, including Nmap, Burp Suite, and Metasploit
Demonstrated ability to evaluate vulnerabilities, perform root cause analysis, and report findings using NIST SP 800-115, PTES, ISSAF, and OWASP WSTG
Ability to explain and demonstrate technical findings clearly to system owners and engineers
Working knowledge of NIST SP 800-53 security controls
Ability to maintain a quiet and distraction-free remote workspace with adequate internet
Ability to align working hours with core business hours of coworkers and clients
Required disclosure and written approval for current or future outside employment or other professional activities

Benefits

Comp & perks

A choice of medical plans, from an affordable HSA option to a full-featured PPO, with generous company contributions
Dental and vision coverage for you and your family
Company-paid life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
Optional supplemental life, accident, and critical illness coverage
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Paid time off that grows with your years of service
Paid federal holidays
Paid certifications
Professional development
Valiant University training portal
Flexible spending accounts
Wellness and fitness program
Referral bonuses
100% remote work
Ad hoc travel to the Washington DC Metro area
Quiet, distraction-free workspace and adequate internet for telecommuting
Core business hours aligned with coworkers and clients
Cameras encouraged and may be required during virtual video conferences