TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Penetration Tester Salary in Boston
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$162,354/yr
Typical range: $136,378 – $215,670
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Penetration Tester salary by experience level in Boston
Penetration Tester Salary Progression in Boston
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $116,621 | $9,718 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $144,061 | $12,005 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $162,354 | $13,530 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $187,965 | $15,664 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $253,821 | $21,152 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $318,306 | $26,526 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $334,427 | $27,869 | +187% |
Current Salary
$162,354
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $78/hr
Next Level Target
$187,965
Senior · 6
+$26Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
73/100
Above Average
+30% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Penetration Tester salary in Boston, MA?
3–5 Years Experience Penetration Testers in Boston, MA earn approximately $162K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Penetration Tester make per hour in Boston, MA?
Based on $162K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $78/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Penetration Tester in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Penetration Tester in Boston, MA earns $216K–$265K/yr.