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If you are looking to earn a great salary while making a meaningful contribution to keeping companies safe and secure, a career as an entry level penetration tester could be for you. As an entry level penetration tester, you will carry out all essential tasks related to ensuring the security of a company against cyber-attacks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the entry level penetration tester salary, as well as the duties and responsibilities encompassed by this position. As an entry level penetration tester, you can expect to earn a competitive salary as the role involves highly specialized knowledge and expertise in the fields of cyber security and ethical hacking.
1. The Average Salary for an Entry Level Penetration Tester
If you are just starting out in the world of cyber security and and thinking about becoming a penetration tester, you should know that there is quite a healthy financial upside to the job. Penetration testers are highly-paid professionals, renowned for their technical and problem-solving skills. On average, entry-level penetration testers make around $60,000-$80,000 per year depending on their experience.
As an entry-level penetration tester, you’ll need to complete certain tasks in order to ensure network security. This will include:
- Executing vulnerability scans and penetration tests to identify threats
- Configuring security systems to reduce attack surfaces
- Creating process and procedures for security compliance
- Developing safeguards and protocols to prevent breaches
Generally, the more experience you have, the higher salary you can command - with senior penetration testers earning upwards of $120,000.
2. What Factors Go Into Calculating an Entry Level Penetration Tester’s Salary?
Entry level penetration testers are often on the hunt for competitive salaries and benefits when they are entering the field. When considering the salary for an entry level position, employers consider a number of factors. Some of the most common factors are listed below:
- Education and Certifications: Employers look favorably upon entry level applicants who have invested their time and resources into completing relevant education and earning certifications as these qualities exemplify commitment and dedication to the field.
- Experience: Though it is understandable that most entry level positions require no professional experience, any experience that the applicant may bring to the table may aid in bumping up the entry level salary.
- Geographical Location: The price of living and the norm for certain areas can have an impact on entry level salaries. Therefore, area may affect the salary offered for an entry level penetration tester.
- Company: Different companies offer different salaries and benefits. A mid-sized company may not be able to afford the same compensation as a Fortune 500 firm.
These are the main factors that an employer considers when offering a salary for an entry level penetration tester. Factors such as the popularity of the position and the applicant’s negotiating skills can also come into play. The demand and salary for a particular position may also vary from one area to the other depending on the competition and budget of the industry. With this route, entry level penetration testers can find the best salary and benefits package that suits their goals.
3. Invest in Your Future with an Entry Level Penetration Tester Career
An Exciting Opportunity for Beginners
Are you fascinated by the idea of finding and fixing security vulnerabilities? Consider becoming an entry-level penetration tester. This field offers challenging, exciting work to those with an aptitude for problem-solving. You’ll put your research and communication skills to the test as you investigate security breaches. As a penetration tester, you can help protect businesses and organizations from unwanted intrusions.
To work in this role, you must have strong knowledge of computers, networks, and coding languages. You must also be familiar with hacking techniques to see if systems are vulnerable. By understanding the hacker’s point of view, you can identify potential weak spots and suggest improvements. Being detail-oriented and analytical is a must so that you can solve puzzles efficiently.
Here are a few key reasons to consider this career path:
- Job security
- Excellent salary
- High demand for qualified workers
- Learn valuable skills and knowledge
This field offers substantial rewards for those who are passionate about cyber security. If you enjoy problem-solving and staying up to date on the newest security developments, then you may find a fulfilling career in penetration testing.
4. Make the Most Out of Your Entry Level Penetration Tester Salary
Set Financial Priorities
Knowing where to invest your newfound entry level penetration tester salary is essential to make the most of your earnings. Start by mapping out long-term financial goals. Prioritize your savings goals; for example, save for retirement, then an emergency fund, and then short-term savings. Paying off costly debt should also be a high priority.
Invest in Your Career
Your entry level salary can help you make strategic investments in your career. Consider allocating money to technical certifications, training programs, and other learning opportunities. Setting aside money to network and attend conferences allow for more knowledge, increased visibility, and an expanded pool of contacts. Diversifying your investments in this way increases your chances of earning higher salaries in the years to come.
The salary of an entry-level penetration tester can vary depending on a range of factors such as education levels, level of experience, demand for penetration testers, and geographic location. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average base salary for penetration testers ranges from $60,170 to $145,320 per year, with additional profit sharing opportunities of up to $16,400. The top-employing states for penetration testers include California, Texas, and New York, with the highest paying states in 2020 being Washington D.C., New York, and New Jersey.
Candidates for entry-level positions typically have 1-4 years of experience in the field of penetration testing and hold relevant certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or CompTIA Security+. As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow, entry-level penetration testers can expect a promising career outlook with opportunities for professional development and income potential as they gain experience and advance in their roles.
Cybersecurity Penetration Tester Salary Data
| Job Role | Experience Level | Base Salary Range | Average Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Penetration Tester | 1-3 years’ experience | $60,170 – $145,320 | $0 – $16,400 |
| Mid-Level Penetration Tester | 4-7 years’ experience | $100,000 – $160,000 | $5,000 – $25,000 |
| Experienced Penetration Tester | 8+ years’ experience | $150,000 – $200,000 | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Licensed Penetration Tester | Certified professionals | $120,000 – $180,000 | $5,000 – $20,000 |
Q&A
Q: What is the salary for an entry level penetration tester?
A: An entry level penetration tester typically earns an average salary of about $67,000 per year for positions in the United States. This salary can vary depending on prior experience and a candidate’s area of expertise.
Q: What is the salary range for entry-level penetration testers?
A: The salary range for entry-level penetration testers varies depending on factors such as location, experience level, and education. On average, entry-level penetration testers can expect to earn between $60,170 to $145,320 annually.
Q: What are the top-paying cities for penetration testers?
A: Some of the top-paying cities for penetration testers include San Francisco, Jersey City, and other affluent cities. These cities typically offer higher average base salaries and additional compensation options for skilled professionals in the cybersecurity field.
Q: What are some of the industry-recognized certifications for penetration testers?
A: Industry-recognized certifications for penetration testers include Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Network Defender (CND), and other advanced penetration testing certifications. These certifications demonstrate proficiency in various aspects of cybersecurity and can boost salary potential.
Q: What is the demand for skilled penetration testers in the field of cybersecurity?
A: The demand for skilled penetration testers continues to grow as organizations prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect their digital assets. Cybersecurity analysts and penetration testers play a crucial role in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in systems, making them highly sought after in the industry.
Q: How does experience level impact the salary trajectory for penetration testers?
A: Experience level has a significant impact on the salary trajectory for penetration testers. Entry-level professionals typically earn lower base salaries compared to mid-level and senior-level pentesters. As professionals gain experience through internships and hands-on learning, they can command higher salaries and advance into management positions within the cybersecurity field.
Sources:
– Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Information Security Analysts.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, 15 Sept. 2021, bls.gov
Conclusion
When it comes to the life of an entry level penetration tester, a good salary is certainly a welcome factor – and it’s not impossible to find! With careful planning and some hard work, you can increase your earning potential and build a successful career. Make sure that to keep your security up to date, using a reliable service like LogMeOnce. Create a FREE LogMeOnce account with Auto-login and SSO, and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that you always have the highest level of security when it comes to your entry level penetration testing salary. Visit LogMeOnce today to find out more.
Nicole’s, journey in the tech industry is marked by a passion for learning and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether it’s delving into the latest software developments or exploring innovative computing solutions, Nicole’s expertise is evident in her insightful and informative writing style. Her ability to connect with readers through her words makes her a valuable asset in any technical communication endeavor.
