Senior Consultant, Penetration Tester Job at Coalfire Systems in Chicago

Overview

Coalfire is an EEO employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to respecting one another, embracing individual differences, and creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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 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. We are thought leaders, consultants, and cybersecurity experts who are passionate problem-solvers eager 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 Senior Consultant on the Compliance Security team, 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 leading internal and external network penetration testing, application security assessments (browser-based, API, mobile), cloud environment testing, social engineering engagements, and wireless assessments.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead penetration testing engagements across networks, applications, cloud infrastructure, APIs, and mobile platforms
• Focus area on technical project leadership and cloud penetration testing engagements
• Deliver clear, actionable technical reports and executive summaries
• Provide expert guidance on remediation and risk mitigation strategies
• Collaborate cross-functionally with delivery teams, project managers, and sales to ensure successful engagement outcomes
• Escalate critical issues and ensure timely resolution of project challenges
• Mentor and support the development of less experienced team members
• Contribute to research, tool development, and knowledge sharing within the security practice
• Support the achievement of team utilization and delivery metrics

Qualifications

• Bachelor\'s degree (four-year college or university) or equivalent combination of education and work experience
• Minimum 5+ years of hands-on experience in network and/or application penetration testing
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in cybersecurity consulting
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more areas: Web Application, API, Mobile, Cloud, and Internal and External Network Penetration Testing
• Proficiency in multiple scripting or programming languages (e.g., Python, PowerShell, C, Bash)
• Experience testing against IT security compliance frameworks such as PCI, FISMA, HIPAA, FedRAMP, or HITRUST
• Strong understanding of security frameworks and standards (e.g., OWASP, NIST, PTES, PCI DSS, HIPAA, FedRAMP)
• Proven experience interacting with clients, delivering presentations, and writing detailed assessment reports
• Experience leading penetration testing engagements and working independently in a client-facing capacity
• Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 10%)
• Solid proficiency in at least one area: Compliance-Driven Penetration Testing, Cloud Penetration Testing, Network/AD Penetration Testing, Application Penetration Testing, Secure Code Review, Hardware/IoT Testing, Container Security Testing, or AI/ML System Testing

What Sets You Apart

• Proven ability to manage time and juggle multiple tasks under tight deadlines
• Strong consulting presence and the ability to 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 staying current with threat landscapes

Compensation and Perks

The salary range listed is a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role based on national salary averages. The actual salary offer will be based on job-related education, geographic location, training, licensure and certifications, and other factors. You may also be eligible to participate in annual incentive, commission, and/or recognition programs.

Why You’ll Want to Join Us

At Coalfire, you’ll find the support you need to thrive personally and professionally. We offer a flexible work model where you can choose when and where you work best. We prioritize connection and wellbeing and offer opportunities to engage in employee resource groups, events, and more. Benefits include paid parental leave, flexible time off, certification and training reimbursement, digital mental health and wellbeing support, and comprehensive insurance options.

Coalfire is an equal opportunity employer. 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. We provide reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, services, programs, and activities. To request accommodation for the application or interview process, contact HumanResourcesMB@coalfire.com.

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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