Consultant, Penetration Tester

About Coalfire
Coalfire is on a mission to make the world a safer place by solving our clients’ hardest cybersecurity challenges. We work at the cutting edge of technology to advise, assess, automate, and ultimately help companies navigate the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape. We are headquartered in Chicago, Illinois with offices across the U.S. and U.K., and we support clients around the world.
But that’s not who we are – that’s just what we do. We are thought leaders, consultants, and cybersecurity experts, but above all else, we are a team of passionate problem-solvers who are hungry to learn, grow, and make a difference.
Position Summary:  

Join a collaborative and dynamic team of cybersecurity professionals to conduct cutting-edge penetration testing across a wide range of technologies and environments. As a Consultant, you’ll play a key role in identifying vulnerabilities, simulating real-world cyberattacks, and helping our clients strengthen their security posture.

Your day-to-day will include internal and external network penetration testing, application security assessments (browser-based, API, mobile), cloud environment testing, social engineering engagements, and wireless assessments.

What You'll Do

· Perform security assessments across various platforms and technologies

· Simulate sophisticated cyberattacks to assess and improve client defenses

· Advise clients on technical security and compliance best practices

· Manage your own testing priorities and deliver high-quality work on time

· Collaborate with internal teams—PMs, QA, sales, and other consultants—to deliver exceptional client service

· Create and maintain testing methodologies, documentation, and processes

· Write detailed, high-quality reports for both technical and executive stakeholders

· Scope and lead penetration testing engagements from start to finish

· Help resolve escalations during active assessments

· Mentor junior team members and contribute to a positive team environment

· Support the team’s success by contributing to KPIs, innovation, and knowledge sharing

What You'll Bring

· A Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent experience) in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field

· 3+ years of hands-on experience in network and/or application penetration testing

· Proficiency with scripting languages such as Python, PowerShell, Shell, or Ruby

· Familiarity with security frameworks (e.g., PCI, HIPAA, FEDRAMP, HITRUST, or FISMA)

· 1–3 years of experience in IT security audit and/or compliance roles

· Strong technical foundation in networks, servers, workstations, and applications

· Experience working in a consulting or client-facing role (minimum 3 years)

· Strong communication and presentation skills—able to interface with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

· Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 10%)

You should have solid proficiency in at least one of the following areas:

· Compliance-Driven Penetration Testing (e.g., PCI, FedRAMP)

· Cloud Penetration Testing (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP)

· Network/Active Directory Penetration Testing

· Application (Web/API/Mobile/Thick) Penetration Testing

· Secure Code Review

· Hardware or IoT Testing

· Container Security Testing

· AI or ML System Testing

Bonus Points

· Proven ability to manage time and juggle multiple tasks under tight deadlines

· Strong consulting presence—can lead client meetings, kickoff calls, and present findings clearly

· Excellent report writing skills—capable of drafting both technical detail and executive summaries

· Continuous learning mindset—actively pursuing certifications and keeping up with threat landscapes

Why You’ll Want to Join Us
At Coalfire, you’ll find the support you need to thrive personally and professionally. In many cases, we provide a flexible work model that empowers you to choose when and where you’ll work most effectively – whether you’re at home or an office.
Regardless of location, you’ll experience a company that prioritizes connection and wellbeing and be part of a team where people care about each other and our communities. You’ll have opportunities to join employee resource groups, participate in in-person and virtual events, and more. And you’ll enjoy competitive perks and benefits to support you and your family, like paid parental leave, flexible time off, certification and training reimbursement, digital mental health and wellbeing support membership, and comprehensive insurance options.
At Coalfire, equal opportunity and pay equity is integral to the way we do business. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Coalfire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact our Human Resources team at HumanResourcesMB@coalfire.com.