Internal Penetration Tester

    ~$85,904 - $159,536Market Estimate
    United States - Remote
    Full-Time
    Mid (3-6 yrs)
    IT & Security
    Posted on October 20, 2026

    About the Role

    The Internal Penetration Tester works to execute offensive security activities for Pathfynder by A-LIGN. In this role, you will be responsible for the delivery of internal network and cloud-based SaaS penetration testing engagements. As the Internal Penetration Tester, you will provide exceptional technical and client-focused testing strategies to help support the continued growth of our fast-paced company. A-LIGN will depend on you as the Internal Penetration Tester to independently identify and validate real-world security risks, manually exploit vulnerabilities, document findings, and communicate practical remediation guidance to clients.

    Reports to

    Director, Internal Offensive Operations

    Pay Classification

    Full-Time, Exempt

    Responsibilities

    • Execute internal network and cloud-based SaaS penetration testing engagements
    • Identify, validate, and manually exploit vulnerabilities using public exploits, custom-developed exploits, or a combination of techniques
    • Evaluate findings in context, explore realistic attack paths, and accurately assess business and technical risk
    • Deliver clear, accurate, client-ready reports that explain findings, evidence, and actionable remediation guidance
    • Communicate technical issues, testing results, and remediation recommendations to client stakeholders
    • Maintain project quality and timelines while executing assigned engagements with minimal oversight
    • Collaborate with the offensive security team to evaluate industry tools, improve delivery methods, and share technical knowledge
    • Mentor team members and contribute to the continued development of team capabilities

    Minimum Qualifications

    EDUCATION

    • Degree in cybersecurity, computer information systems, related discipline or equivalent professional

    EXPERIENCE

    • 5+ years of hands-on offensive security experience, including at least 3 years focused on internal network, Active Directory, red team, or purple team penetration testing
    • Experience with network and system exploitation across enterprise environments
    • Knowledge of penetration testing methodologies and current offensive security practices
    • Experience applying current tactics, techniques, and procedures related to EDR bypass, lateral movement, and privilege escalation
    • Preferred red team or purple team penetration testing experience
    • Preferred wireless penetration testing experience
    • Preferred consulting or client-facing security delivery experience

    CERTIFICATIONS

    • Preferred OSCP, CEH, or OSEP certification.
    • Preferred additional advanced certifications relevant to internal network, Active Directory, red team, or cloud security testing

    SKILLS

    • Passion for information security and identifying exploitable vulnerabilities before threat actors can take advantage of them.
    • Ability to discover and exploit complex vulnerabilities while maintaining a disciplined and repeatable approach to testing.
    • Knowledge of Active Directory attack paths, network exploitation, lateral movement, privilege escalation, and defence evasion techniques.
    • Proficiency with scripting languages such as Python, Bash, JavaScript, PowerShell, or SQL.
    • Proficiency with commonly used offensive security tools such as Nmap, BloodHound, the Impacket suite, Metasploit, Wireshark, and Nessus.
    • Knowledge of multiple penetration testing concentrations and the ability to select appropriate methodologies and tools.
    • Ability to write clear, concise, client-ready reports with accurate findings and actionable remediation guidance.
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical risks to technical and non-technical audiences.
    • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, remote environment while meeting deadlines.
    • Continuous desire to grow technical capabilities, improve delivery efficiency, and share knowledge with team members and clients.
    • Cloud architecture knowledge across AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform is preferred.

    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
    • Technology Allowance
    • Certification Reimbursement
    • Personalised 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 technology-enabled cybersecurity company providing offensive and defensive cybersecurity services under A-LIGN, a security and compliance partner trusted by more than 2,400 global organisations to help mitigate cybersecurity risks. We work with organisations ranging from small businesses to global enterprises, with services spanning 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. To learn more, visit 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 individuals, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

    Application Toolkit

    Pro

    Tailor your resume and cover letter for Internal Penetration Tester .

    Company:  A-LIGN

    Provides cybersecurity compliance programs combining auditors and audit management technology for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HITRUST, and FedRAMP.
    501-1000 employees
    Cybersecurity
    HQ: United States