Penetration Tester

A-LIGN

11h•Remote

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, management information systems, computer science, or relevant discipline
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
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

Nice To Haves

OSCP, eWPT, eWPTX, OSWA, or OSWE certification

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