Penetration Tester

Posting Details

Posting Details

Logo Institution Dakota State University Working Title Penetration Tester Posting Number CSA02838P Department DSU-Research & Economic Development Physical Location of Position (City) Madison Posting Text

Dakota State University is seeking applications for a full-time Penetration Tester. The position will complete IT infrastructure audits and provide clients with post-assessments following their reviews.

NOTE: This position is subject to continued external funding.

Responsibilities:

• Perform external and internal security research for external clients.
• Contribute to developing tools and methods for penetration testing, as well as for quantifying testing platforms and tools or develop tools and procedures for penetration tests.
• Perform penetration testing using standard penetration tools (Metasploit, Nmap, Nessus, Burpsuite, etc.)
• Write comprehensive reports for the clients to communicate findings.
• Document findings for quarterly reports.
• Perform pre- and post- assessment meetings with clients.
• Review tools, techniques, tactics, procedures, and equipment to ensure the most up-to-date is being utilized.
• Develop and supervise a team of student employees.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cyber Operations, Cyber Defense preferred or equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Prior experience with signature development and penetration testing.
• Solid background in Linux and Windows.
• Ability to grasp current and future security threat landscape.
• Knowledge of C/C++, python, or additional scripting and programming languages.
• In-depth knowledge of various TCP and/or IP protocols.
• Relevant experience involving traffic analysis such as WireShark and Tcpdump.
• Must have attention to detail to work within the Rules of Engagement designed per assessment.
• Have the ability to write technical reports based on assessment results and present findings in a formal environment.
• Must be able to work as a team on a single project.
• US Citizenship is required.

Benefits:

• Flexible benefits package - health, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, hospital indemnity insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, health reimbursement account.
• South Dakota Retirement System. Employees receive 6% fully matched contributions from SDRS and are vested after three years of service.
• Paid time off - full time 12-month employees earn 15 days per year of annual leave and 14 days of sick leave per year. In addition, employees receive 11 federal paid holidays.
• Reduced tuition for education.
• Professional liability coverage
• Paid family leave

How to Apply:

To apply, visit https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. The employment site will allow the attachment of a resume and contact information for at least three professional references.

For questions concerning the position, contact Alicia Entringer at alicia.entringer@dsu.edu.

This role requires use of technical data subject to program sponsor contract restrictions, therefore this posting is only for U.S. Citizens.

10/6/2026 - Updated requirements section.

Posting Date 09/18/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes First Consideration Date Advertised Salary CSA Pay Grade IT7: Starting at $74,897 Duration of the Term 12 months If Other, describe duration Appointment Percent 100% Work Hours

8:00am - 5:00pm; occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

Typical Hours Worked Per Week Appointment Type Regular Scope of Search External (includes Internal) If internal, define scope of search This position requires No Requirement If other, please indicate Department Description and Cultural Expectations

In addition to the exciting professional opportunities at Dakota State University, employees will have the privilege of enjoying the benefits of Madison, South Dakota. Nestled in the heart of the state, Madison offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, creating an ideal environment for work-life balance.

The city boasts a range of recreational activities, from picturesque parks to outdoor events, fostering a sense of community engagement and well-being. Madison's scenic landscapes and proximity to nearby lakes provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it be fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors.

Madison's location within South Dakota provides easy access to larger cities, cultural events, and regional attractions. Madison is only a short 50 minute drive from South Dakota's largest city, Sioux Falls. Currently: DSU is located in Madison, South Dakota in the southern lakes region of the state. The region boasts a wealth of outdoor sports and a life-style possible only in smaller towns and rural communities. Madison is just a 50-minute drive from Sioux Falls, the largest city in South Dakota.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

DSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration and DSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing DSU-humanresources@dsu.edu

E-Verify, EOE.

Contact Information

Working Conditions

Cognitive Requirements

Please check the appropriate response that describe the cognitive requirements for this position. Analyzing, Comprehend, Frequent Change, Logic, Memory, Multiple Priorities, Pace-fast, Perform calculations, Reading, Reasoning, Verbal Communication, Written Communication

Protective Clothing/Equipment

Please check the appropriate response for this position's use of the following protective clothing or equipment. If other protection is used please identify

Physical Requirements

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Sensory Requirements

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Working Conditions & Exposures

Working Conditions or Exposures (or potential exposures) that this position may encounter during the course of the work day. Please describe, in more detail, any of the conditions checked above

Working Environment

Check the appropriate box(es) that best describes the environment in which the primary function of the position is performed. Lab Environment, Office Environment If you have indicated Other Environment, if work tasks involve one or more of the above, or if further explanation is necessary, please use the space provided.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
• Public Job Posting
• Internal Job Posting
• Agency Referral
• Advertisement/Publication
• Personal Referral
• Website
• Other

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Reference List

Optional Documents

• Other