Vulnerability Researcher / Penetration Tester

Cybersecurity Jobs; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 112,000 - 196,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Paid time off and flexible work Scche‑

401(k)

Life insurance

Holidays

Wellness initiatives

Job summary

Parsons is seeking Penetration Testers to support mission-critical cybersecurity work in Baltimore, MD onsite. The role combines hands-on offensive security with a culture of learning, knowledge sharing, and technical excellence.

You will contribute to vulnerability campaigns, red team activities, DAST scanning, and ongoing analysis to strengthen continuous improvement. A TS/SCI clearance and relevant certifications are required, with compensation ranging from 112,200 to 196,400 USD per year.

Qualifications

• Mid level requires a Bachelor's degree and 5–9 years of experience.
• Senior level requires a Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of experience.
• Must have an active TS/SCI clearance.
• Experience with penetration testing, red teaming, or offensive cyber operations.
• IAT II Certification required or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute vulnerability campaigns, rapid-response campaigns, red team engagements, and DAST scans.
• Maintain and evolve the VDP Assessment Playbook, including researching exploits and TTPs.
• Collaborate with analysts and SMEs to resolve complex technical problems.
• Continuously improve technical skills and adapt to new tools and threats.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on learning and excellence.

Skills

Penetration testing

Red team engagements

Vulnerability campaigns

DAST scanning

Offensive cyber operations

Learning mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree

TS/SCI clearance

Tools

IAT II Certification

OSCP

CEH

PenTest+

GPEN

Job description

Parsons is hiring Penetration Testers to support mission-critical cybersecurity work. Based in Baltimore, MD onsite, this role pairs hands-on offensive security with a team culture built around learning, knowledge sharing, and technical excellence. You will contribute to vulnerability campaigns, red team activities, DAST scanning, and ongoing analysis that strengthens continuous improvement.

What you’ll do

• Plan and execute vulnerability campaigns, rapid-response campaigns, red team engagements, and DAST scans
• Maintain and evolve the VDP Assessment Playbook, including researching emerging exploits and TTPs
• Work closely with other analysts and subject matter experts to resolve complex technical problems
• Continuously improve technical skills and adapt to new tools, technologies, and cyber threats
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on learning and technical excellence

Experience and qualifications

• Mid level: Bachelors’ degree and 5-9 years of experience
• Senior level: Bachelors’ degree and 10+ years of experience
• Must have a current/active TS/SCI clearance
• Experience with penetration testing, red teaming, or offensive cyber operations
• Willingness to learn, grow, and contribute in a collaborative technical environment
• IAT II Certification
• Desired: at least one intermediate or advanced industry certification relevant to penetration testing (example certifications include OSCP, CEH, PenTest+, GPEN)

Security clearance requirement

An active Top Secret SCI security clearance is required for this position.

Compensation and benefits

Salary: USD 112,200 - 196,400 per year.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off and flexible work schedules
• 401(k)
• Life insurance
• Holidays

Parsons also offers competitive benefit offerings including Financial Wellness, Work Life Harmony, Career Development, Veteran Support, and Mind & Body. The company provides training, educational, and mentorship programs, plus wellness initiatives such as weekly Meditation Mondays and Wellness Wednesdays, supported by an Employee Assistance Program and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans through national carriers.