Penetration Tester

Your Fit

Income

$98K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

9.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Penetration Tester?

A Penetration Tester, also known as an ethical hacker, is a cybersecurity professional who simulates cyber attacks on computer systems, networks, and applications to identify and fix security vulnerabilities. Their work is essential in protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access from real hackers.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Penetration Tester.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Penetration Tester earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Penetration Tester.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$60K per year	$79K per year	$98K per year	$120K per year	$149K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $33K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Penetration Tester do?

Work environment

Penetration Testers typically work in office settings within cybersecurity firms, IT departments of various companies, or as independent consultants. The role often involves collaborating with IT teams and may include remote work. They may work regular hours, but projects can sometimes require work outside of typical business hours.

Quick task list

Conducts simulated cyber attacks on computer systems, networks, and applications.
Identifies and reports security weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
Recommends and implements measures to secure systems.
Stays up to date on the latest cybersecurity trends and hacker methodologies.
Documents findings and provides feedback to improve security.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Network Penetration Testing: Focusing on identifying vulnerabilities in network infrastructures.
Web Application Testing: Specializing in finding security flaws in web-based applications.
Wireless Security Testing: Assessing the security of wireless networks.
Social Engineering: Using manipulation techniques to test human vulnerabilities in security systems.
Physical Security Testing: Evaluating the physical security measures of an organization.

Description

Penetration Testers are on the front lines of cybersecurity, using their skills to strengthen the digital defenses of organizations. They think like hackers to uncover weak points in security before actual malicious attackers can exploit them. Their role involves a mix of hands-on technical work and strategic planning, as they must understand and anticipate the tactics that real-world hackers might use.

In addition to technical expertise, Penetration Testers need to be creative and analytical problem solvers. They often use a variety of tools and techniques to probe for vulnerabilities, requiring a deep understanding of both the technology they are testing and the potential methods of attack. This career is dynamic and fast-paced, as cybersecurity threats continually evolve, requiring Penetration Testers to be lifelong learners.

Strong communication skills are also important, as Penetration Testers need to explain their findings and recommendations to non-technical stakeholders. They must be able to document their methods and findings clearly and provide actionable insights to improve security.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a critical role in protecting organizations from cyber threats.
The challenge and excitement of staying ahead of the latest cybersecurity trends and hacker tactics.
Opportunities for continuous learning and skill development in a rapidly evolving field.

You might make a good Penetration Tester if you are...

Intrigued by cybersecurity and enjoy thinking like a hacker to find vulnerabilities.
Detail-oriented, able to notice small inconsistencies and flaws in systems.
A problem solver who enjoys overcoming complex technical challenges.
Constantly curious and committed to staying updated on the latest in technology and cybersecurity.
Able to communicate complex security concepts in simple terms.

Pros:

High demand for cybersecurity skills in a wide range of industries.
Opportunities for constant learning and tackling diverse challenges.
Potential for high job satisfaction through protecting sensitive data and systems.

Cons:

The need to continually update skills to keep up with rapidly evolving technologies and threats.
Potential high-pressure situations, especially after a security breach.
The ethical responsibility to use hacking skills in a lawful and ethical manner.

How to become a Penetration Tester

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, information technology, computer science, or a related field is commonly required, amounting to about 4 years of post-secondary education. Additional certifications in cybersecurity or ethical hacking are highly valued.

High school preparation

Courses:

Computer science to learn the basics of programming and system administration.
Mathematics, especially algebra and statistics, for developing analytical skills.
Ethics or social studies to understand the ethical implications of hacking.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining or starting a cybersecurity club.
Participating in coding competitions or ethical hacking challenges.
Attending workshops or seminars related to IT and cybersecurity.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field.
Obtain certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP).
Gain practical experience through internships in cybersecurity.

More resources

Offensive Security - Provides training and certification in penetration testing and ethical hacking, including the well-known Certified Professional (OSCP) certification.
SANS Institute - Offers a range of courses and certifications in cybersecurity, including those focused on penetration testing.
Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) - A global community of information security professionals that offers networking and educational resources.
International Council of E-Commerce Consultants (EC-Council) - Offers the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, which is widely recognized in the field of penetration testing.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - A tool for career exploration and job analysis, providing detailed information on the role of a Penetration Tester.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.