Penetration Tester (Cyber Security Project Engineer)

Ardent Principles, Inc.•Chantilly, VA

17h•$130,000 - $260,000•Onsite

About The Position

We’re seeking a Penetration Tester who thrives in hands‑on security testing and modern cyber defense environments. You’ll apply adversarial tactics, computer attack methods, and system exploitation techniques to evaluate the security of Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms. This role involves analyzing network architectures, performing network security assessments, designing and testing IT security architectures, and reviewing enterprise system and hypervisor configurations. Ardent Principles delivers cutting‑edge capabilities across data science, data engineering, software engineering, AI solutions, cybersecurity, and IT program management. We thrive at the intersection of mission, technology, and innovation. At Ardent Principles, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers rooted in purpose. Our competitive salary ranges and industry‑leading benefits are designed to support long‑term stability, growth, and overall well‑being. We’re committed to creating an environment where talented people can do their best work and feel valued while doing it. Join us as we continue building the future of secure, high‑impact solutions.

Requirements

Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph
Work experience in cyber security or related IT field
Cyber penetration testing
Leveraging adversarial tactics to conduct hands-on security testing
Applying computer attack methods and system exploitation techniques
Working knowledge of cyber security principles for Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms
Designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture
Performing network security analysis
Analyzing network architectures
Using network management tools
Developing risk management methodologies
Analyzing test results to develop risk and threat mitigation plans
Testing or reviewing system configuration, development, and design specifically around enterprise systems and hypervisors
Designing, testing, or implementing complex Windows installations

Nice To Haves

Participating in public and private information security groups and organizations
Communicating vulnerability results and risk posture to senior executives
Performing complex technical tasks with minimal direction
Oracle Cloud Computing Services
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or other related scientific or technical discipline
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Global Information Assurance Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN)

Responsibilities

Work experience in cyber security or related IT field
Cyber penetration testing
Leveraging adversarial tactics to conduct hands-on security testing
Applying computer attack methods and system exploitation techniques
Working knowledge of cyber security principles for Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms
Designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture
Performing network security analysis
Analyzing network architectures
Using network management tools
Developing risk management methodologies
Analyzing test results to develop risk and threat mitigation plans
Testing or reviewing system configuration, development, and design specifically around enterprise systems and hypervisors
Designing, testing, or implementing complex Windows installations