Jr. Penetration Tester

Junior Penetration Tester

Apex Systems is seeking a Junior Penetration Tester to join a Chicago-based cybersecurity team. This role will support penetration testing operations across applications, networks, and enterprise environments. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise, proven experience in vulnerability research and exploitation, and the ability to work as part of a collaborative offensive security team.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct penetration testing operations in accordance with DHS and industry best practices.
• Perform web application, network, and infrastructure testing using both commercial and open-source tools.
• Safely execute testing activities under defined operational guidance.
• Document findings in detailed reports with actionable remediation recommendations.
• Collaborate with SOC, engineering, and defensive security teams to validate and remediate vulnerabilities.
• Contribute to tool development, methodology refinement, and knowledge-sharing across the team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related discipline and 3+ years of related experience or Master's degree and 1+ years of related experience.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in at least one of the following areas: incident detection and response, malware analysis, or cyber forensics.
• Must have experience with at least 3 of the following tools: Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Cobalt Strike, Tenable Nessus, WebInspect, Scuba, AppDetective.
• Must hold one or more of the following certifications: GPEN, GWAPT, GISF, GXPN, OSCP, OSCE, OSWP, OSEE, CISSP, or CEH.
• Prior experience in IT security, auditing, or system administration preferred.
• U.S. citizenship required.

EEO Employer

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.