Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor: High-Paying Cybersecurity Role at RSM International in Houston, TX
Introduction
In the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, the role of a Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor stands out as a critical position blending hands-on ethical hacking with leadership responsibilities. This job opening at RSM International in Houston, TX, offers a competitive salary range of $95,400 to $192,000 USD per year, posted on September 25, 2025. Ideal for experienced professionals in penetration testing and cyber security supervision, it targets candidates with proven expertise in vulnerability assessments and team oversight.
This guide breaks down the penetration tester jobs in Houston, highlighting what makes this cyber security supervisor position at RSM International appealing. Whether you’re an aspiring ethical hacker or a seasoned cybersecurity professional, understanding this role’s demands can propel your career in Texas’ booming tech sector.
Why This Role Matters in Today’s Cybersecurity Landscape
With cyber threats rising—over 2,200 daily attacks reported globally per IBM’s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report—organizations like RSM International need experts to simulate attacks and supervise defenses. This hybrid role ensures proactive security in auditing and consulting environments.
Analysis
The job posting for Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor at RSM International emphasizes experience in similar functions, excluding internships, with potential relocation support implied in eligibility mentions. Located in Houston, TX, it aligns with the city’s growth as a cybersecurity hub, hosting firms leveraging energy sector vulnerabilities.
Core Responsibilities Breakdown
Standard duties for a penetration tester, per NIST SP 800-115 guidelines, include reconnaissance, scanning, exploitation, and reporting. As a cyber security supervisor, expect team management, policy enforcement, and compliance oversight, verifiable through certifications like CISSP or CEH.
Salary and Compensation Insights
The listed range of $95,400 – $192,000 USD annually reflects seniority levels. Entry-level penetration testers average $100,000 per Glassdoor 2024 data, while supervisors exceed $150,000 in high-cost areas like Houston, factoring in bonuses and benefits.
Company Profile: RSM International
RSM International, a top-20 global accounting and consulting firm with over 57,000 employees, specializes in risk advisory services. Their Houston office focuses on cybersecurity for mid-market clients, making this role pivotal for audit integrations.
Summary
This Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor position at RSM International in Houston, TX, seeks leaders in ethical hacking and security operations. Key highlights: salary $95,400-$192,000 USD/year, full-time role, posted September 25, 2025. It demands prior experience, offering growth in a firm renowned for professional services.
Key Points
- Job Title: Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor
- Employer: RSM International
- Location: Houston, TX – a hotspot for cybersecurity jobs Houston with 15% job growth projected by BLS 2023-2033.
- Salary Range: $95,400 – $192,000 USD per year, competitive for penetration tester salary in Texas.
- Posting Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025, 07:32:21 GMT
- Eligibility: Experience in identical roles required; internships excluded from relocation perks.
Practical Advice
To land this cyber security supervisor job, tailor your application to highlight quantifiable achievements, like vulnerabilities remediated or teams led.
Building Required Skills
Master tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nmap, certified via OSCP or CompTIA PenTest+. For supervision, develop leadership through PMP or ITIL. Practice on platforms like Hack The Box for verifiable skills.
Application Strategy
Update your LinkedIn with keywords like penetration testing Houston. Customize resumes to match RSM’s focus on risk management. Prepare for interviews with red team scenarios, as 70% of cybersecurity hires involve technical demos per CyberSeek 2024.
Career Advancement Tips
Network at BSides Houston events. Pursue continuous education; CEH v12 holders earn 10-15% more, per EC-Council data.
Points of Caution
Approach penetration tester careers cautiously: verify postings on official RSM sites to avoid scams. Houston’s job market is competitive—2 applicants per role average, per Indeed 2024.
Common Pitfalls
- Overstating experience without proof; audits reveal 25% resume fraud in tech (HireRight 2023).
- Ignoring Texas employment at-will status, impacting negotiations.
- Neglecting non-compete clauses common in cybersecurity contracts.
Relocation Realities
If eligible, confirm “rent” assistance means housing aid. Houston’s cost of living is 5% below national average (Numbeo 2024), easing transitions.
Comparison
Compared to similar roles, RSM’s offering excels in salary breadth. Deloitte Penetration Testers in Houston average $120,000 (Glassdoor), narrower than RSM’s $95k-$192k. PwC supervisors hit $160,000 but demand 10+ years vs. RSM’s flexible experience.
Salary Comparison Table (2024 Averages)
| Role/Company | Houston Avg Salary | Experience Req. |
|---|---|---|
| RSM Penetration Tester-Supervisor | $95k-$192k | Similar roles |
| Deloitte Pen Tester | $110k-$150k | 5+ years |
| EY Cyber Supervisor | $130k-$180k | 7+ years |
| Local MSP Pen Tester | $90k-$130k | 3+ years |
Job Market Trends
Houston trails Austin in startups but leads in enterprise cybersecurity careers, with 8,500 openings projected by 2030 (Texas Workforce Commission).
Legal Implications
In the U.S., penetration testing requires explicit client authorization under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA, 18 U.S.C. § 1030). Supervisors must ensure team compliance to avoid liability. Employment contracts at firms like RSM often include NDAs and IP clauses, enforceable in Texas courts. No specific legal issues in this posting, but verify EEO compliance as RSM adheres to federal anti-discrimination laws.
Key Regulations
- CFAA: Prohibits unauthorized access; ethical hackers use ROE (Rules of Engagement).
- Texas Data Privacy Law (HB 4, 2023): Mandates breach reporting, relevant for supervisors.
- FLSA: Overtime eligibility for non-exempt roles; supervisors often salaried exempt.
Conclusion
The Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor role at RSM International in Houston, TX represents a prime opportunity in cybersecurity careers, blending technical prowess with leadership amid rising threats. With a generous $95,400-$192,000 salary range, it’s tailored for experts ready to advance. Apply promptly, arm yourself with certifications, and position for success in Houston’s dynamic job market.
FAQ
What is the salary for Penetration Tester – Cyber Security Supervisor at RSM International?
$95,400 – $192,000 USD per year in Houston, TX.
What qualifications are needed for penetration tester jobs in Houston?
Prior experience in similar roles, certifications like CEH, OSCP, and skills in vulnerability scanning tools.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Eligible for non-intern candidates in similar functions, potentially covering rent/housing.
How does RSM International support cybersecurity professionals?
Through risk advisory services, training, and global resources for career growth.
Are there ethical hacking opportunities in Houston TX?
Yes, with firms like RSM, energy companies, and events like BSides offering abundant ethical hacker jobs.
Sources
- Job Posting: RSM International original listing, Thu, Sep 25, 2025.
- Salary Data: Glassdoor 2024 Cybersecurity Salaries; CyberSeek.org.
- Market Trends: BLS Occupational Outlook 2023-2033; Texas Workforce Commission.
- Regulations: NIST SP 800-115; CFAA (18 U.S.C. § 1030); IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report 2023.
- Certifications: EC-Council, Offensive Security.
- Cost of Living: Numbeo 2024; HireRight Resume Fraud Study 2023.
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