> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2733749-penetration-tester](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2733749-penetration-tester). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Penetration Tester - **Company:** VTG Defense - **Location:** Aurora, CO, United States - **Experience:** Experienced - **Salary:** $150,000.0 - $195,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Software System Penetration Testing, Cyber Security, Networking Basics, Network Protocols, Scripting, Software Security, Cisco, Vulnerability Analysis - **Published:** September 5, 2026 - **Apply:** https://jobs.localjobnetwork.com/apply/add/84512222/1 ## About the Role Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester Experience: 3 years OR High School GED + 5 Years Relevant Experience Associates Degree + 4 Years Relevant Experience Masters or Higher + 2 Years Relevant Experience Level 3 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester Experience: 4 years OR High School GED + 9 Years Relevant Experience Associates Degree + 7 Years Relevant Experience Masters or Higher + 5 Years Relevant Experience Level 4 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester Experience: 7 years OR Masters or Higher + 6 Year Relevant Experience All Level Certifification Requirement: Minimum Security+ Desired: DoD 8140 - CSSP Incident Responder certification: * CyberSec First Responder (CFR) * Cisco Cert. Network Assoc. CyberOps (CCNA CyberOps) * CompTIA Pen Test+ * CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) * Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) * CCNA Security * GIAC Forensic Analyst (GCFA) * GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) * SCYBER Level 2 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester Experience: 3 years OR High School GED + 5 Years Relevant Experience Associates Degree + 4 Years Relevant Experience Masters or Higher + 2 Years Relevant Experience Level 3 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester Experience: 4 years OR High School GED + 9 Years Relevant Experience Associates Degree + 7 Years Relevant Experience Masters or Higher + 5 Years Relevant Experience Level 4 Penetration Tester: Education: Bachelor's Degree or Higher, AND Pen Tester Experience: 7 years OR Masters or Higher + 6 Year Relevant Experience Pay Range: VTG's estimated starting pay range is $150,000 - 195,000 annually, which is a general guideline for and depending on the geographic location. When extending an offer, VTG also considers work experience, education, skill level, market considerations and may possibly include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range ## Description A Penetration Tester (Pen Tester) is a security professional who reviews and evaluates NRO ISs and recommends changes to the Government that can improve information confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Pen Testers are also responsible for performing security focused services to improve the security posture of NRO ISs. Travel: 25% estimate for pen testers (OCONUS travel 2x per year). What will you do?, Pen Tester, Level 2 (Intermediate) Functional Description: In addition to being responsible for performing basic reconnaissance and vulnerability scanning in accordance with established testing methodologies; identifies common vulnerabilities that can be potentially exploited, documents and reports findings. Possess basic scripting abilities and an understanding of network fundamentals and vulnerability scanning tools. the Level 2 Pen Tester is responsible for conducting more complex penetration tests, exploring more complex vulnerability analysis including misconfigurations and zero-day exploits, and developing more sophisticated exploitation techniques. Leads penetration tests, mentoring junior testers, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders. Possess expertise in network protocols, application security, social engineering, and advanced scripting. Pen Tester, Level 3 (Senior) Functional Description: In addition to achieved duties described in Level 2, the Pen Tester is responsible for designing and leading complex penetration tests, develops customized tools and methodologies; providing expert guidance on security best practices; identifying complex vulnerabilities, providing strategic security advice, and leading remediation efforts; collaborating with management to develop security policies, training other cybersecurity professionals, and staying abreast of emerging threats. Possess extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, industry standards, and advanced security tools. Pen Tester, Level 4 (Subject Matter Expert) Functional Description: In addition to achieved duties described in Level 3, the Pen Tester will possess additional years of experience as described in Table A.5.5.1. 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