Penetration Tester

About the Role The Penetration Tester works to execute offensive security activities across external networks, web applications, and APIs. In this role, you will be responsible for the execution of penetration testing engagements, including identifying, validating, and manually exploiting vulnerabilities, evaluating potential attack paths, and documenting findings and remediation guidance. As the Penetration Tester, you will provide exceptional technical and creative strategies to support the continued growth of our fast-paced company. A-LIGN will depend on you as the Penetration Tester to support management, independently execute assigned projects, communicate technical findings to clients, and contribute to the continuous improvement of our offensive security tools, methodologies, and delivery processes. Reports to Director, Web Application & External Offensive Operations Pay Classification Full-Time, Exempt Responsibilities Execute external network, web application, and API penetration testing engagements in accordance with defined scopes, methodologies, and rules of engagement Identify, validate, and manually exploit vulnerabilities using public exploits, internally developed techniques, or a combination of approaches Evaluate attack paths and determine the potential business and technical impact of identified vulnerabilities Compile and write clear, accurate, and defensible client reports that explain findings, risk, evidence, and remediation guidance Communicate with clients throughout engagements, including technical discussions, findings walkthroughs, and responses to questions or challenges Execute assigned projects with minimal oversight while maintaining quality, professionalism, and attention to detail Collaborate with team members to evaluate offensive security tools and improve testing methodologies, delivery processes, and reporting standards Share technical knowledge and practical guidance with less-experienced team members and clients when appropriate Maintain current knowledge of emerging vulnerabilities, attack techniques, security research, and industry trends Minimum Qualifications EDUCATION Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, management information systems, computer science, or relevant discipline EXPERIENCE 2-5 years of hands-on penetration testing experience in at least one of the following areas: External Penetration Tests Web Application Penetration Tests API Penetration Tests Mobile Application Penetration Tests Experience independently executing penetration testing engagements and producing high-quality client deliverables Knowledge of established penetration testing methodologies and disciplined evidence collection practices Experience identifying and manually validating exploitable vulnerabilities rather than relying solely on automated scanning Experience communicating technical findings, risk, and remediation guidance clearly to clients and internal stakeholders CERTIFICATIONS Preferred OSCP, eWPT, eWPTX, OSWA, or OSWE certification SKILLS Proficiency with commonly used offensive security tools such as Nmap, SQLmap, Burp Suite, Postman, Nuclei, Wireshark, Nessus, and Caido Proficiency with one or more scripting languages such as Python, Bash, JavaScript, PowerShell, or SQL Solid understanding of web technologies, networking concepts, authentication, access control, and common application security weaknesses Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a remote, fast-paced environment Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical issues to different audiences Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining a high degree of motivation, self-discipline, and quality Benefits Healthcare, Dental, and Vision Benefits Employer Paid Life Insurance and Disability Insurance EAP - Employee Assistance Program Pet Insurance 401(k) Plan with Employer Matching Competitive Bonus Structure Tech Allowance Certification Reimbursement Personalized Career Coaching Generous Paid Time Off Paid Office Closure December 25-January 1 Vacation Bonus Summer Hours About Pathfynder by A-LIGN Pathfynder by A-LIGN is a leading technology-enabled cybersecurity company providing premium offensive and defensive cybersecurity services operating under A-LIGN, a security and compliance partner trusted by more than 2,400 global organizations to confidently mitigate cybersecurity risks. We work with small businesses to global enterprises with services spanning across SOC, Penetration Testing, PCI DSS, HITRUST, ISO and privacy compliance. Our proprietary compliance management platform is transforming the compliance experience by enabling an anytime, anywhere approach to audits. For more information, visit  www.A-LIGN.com . Come Work for A-LIGN!   Apply online today at A-LIGN.com and learn about life at A-LIGN by following us on LinkedIn .   A-LIGN is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, women, disabled, and veterans encouraged to apply!