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Cybersecurity

Penetration Tester Salary Guide (2026)

Explore salary ranges, in-demand skills, valuable certifications, and career progression for penetration tester roles across the cybersecurity industry.

Avg. Salary

$95,000 - $150,000

Level

Mid-Level

Salary Range

Low

$95,000

Midpoint

$122,500

High

$150,000

$0$200,000
Experience level: Mid-Level

Key Skills

The most in-demand skills for penetration tester roles, based on current job postings.

Burp SuiteMetasploitNmapKali LinuxWeb Application TestingNetwork Penetration TestingPython/BashActive Directory AttacksCloud Security TestingSocial EngineeringOWASP Testing Guide

Certifications That Boost Salary

These certifications are commonly associated with higher compensation for penetration tester roles.

OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
GPEN (GIAC Penetration Tester)
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

Career Progression in Cybersecurity

Related roles in cybersecurity sorted by salary. Explore each to compare compensation and skills.

Related Salary Guides

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