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15-1299.04 · Task explorer

Penetration Testers: reported tasks and exploration worksheet

Evaluate network system security by conducting simulated internal and external cyberattacks using adversary tools and techniques. Attempt to breach and exploit critical systems and gain access to sensitive information to assess system security.

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This source lists 22 tasks, including 22 marked Core and 0 marked Supplemental. Labels and dates are retained below. Employers can combine or divide these responsibilities differently; explore the task itself before assuming it belongs in every version of the role.

Task source dates: 08/2026.

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22 tasks shown

Core · Task 21754 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Document penetration test findings.

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Core · Task 21758 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Identify security system weaknesses, using penetration tests.

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Core · Task 21765 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Write audit reports to communicate technical and procedural findings and recommend solutions.

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Core · Task 21756 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Gather cyber intelligence to identify vulnerabilities.

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Core · Task 21761 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of hacking trends.

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Core · Task 21760 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Keep up with new penetration testing tools and methods.

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Core · Task 21757 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Identify new threat tactics, techniques, or procedures used by cyber threat actors.

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Core · Task 21746 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Conduct network and security system audits, using established criteria.

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Core · Task 21752 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Develop security penetration testing processes, such as wireless, data networks, and telecommunication security tests.

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Core · Task 21763 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Test the security of systems by attempting to gain access to networks, Web-based applications, or computers.

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Core · Task 21755 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Evaluate vulnerability assessments of local computing environments, networks, infrastructures, or enclave boundaries.

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Core · Task 21762 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Prepare and submit reports describing the results of security fixes.

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Core · Task 21749 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Develop and execute tests that simulate the techniques of known cyber threat actors.

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Core · Task 21753 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Discuss security solutions with information technology teams or management.

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Core · Task 21745 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Collect stakeholder data to evaluate risk and to develop mitigation strategies.

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Core · Task 21764 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Update corporate policies to improve cyber security.

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Core · Task 21744 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Assess the physical security of servers, systems, or network devices to identify vulnerability to temperature, vandalism, or natural disasters.

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Core · Task 21759 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Investigate security incidents, using computer forensics, network forensics, root cause analysis, or malware analysis.

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Core · Task 21750 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Develop infiltration tests that exploit device vulnerabilities.

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Core · Task 21748 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Design security solutions to address known device vulnerabilities.

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Core · Task 21747 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Configure information systems to incorporate principles of least functionality and least access.

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Core · Task 21751 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Develop presentations on threat intelligence.

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Source and practice material

Occupational context uses the O*NET® 31.0 Database from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. View the occupation.

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