HomeOccupationsANZSCO 261317
ANZSCO 261317Skill Level 1

Penetration Tester

Creates test cases using in-depth technical analysis of risks and typical vulnerabilities and produces test scripts, materials and packs to test new and existing software or services, plans, coordinates and conducts cyber threat emulation activities in support of certification, accreditation, and operational priorities to verify deficiencies in technical security controls.

Skill Level

Level 1

Bachelor degree or higher

Assessing Authority

ACS

Australian Computer Society Incorporated

Eligible Visas

2

visa subclasses

Skilled Lists

1

active list

Your Pathway

Three key steps to migrate through this occupation.

1

Skills Assessment

Get your qualifications and experience assessed by the relevant assessing authority.

2

Expression of Interest

Submit an EOI through SkillSelect with your points score and nominated occupation.

3

Visa Application

Once invited, lodge your visa application with supporting documents.

Overview

What this occupation involves according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Creates test cases using in-depth technical analysis of risks and typical vulnerabilities and produces test scripts, materials and packs to test new and existing software or services, plans, coordinates and conducts cyber threat emulation activities in support of certification, accreditation, and operational priorities to verify deficiencies in technical security controls.

Typical Tasks

Common duties performed in this role.

Researching, consulting, analysing and evaluating system program needs
Identifying technology limitations and deficiencies in existing systems and associated processes, procedures and methods
Testing, debugging, diagnosing and correcting errors and faults in an applications programming language within established testing protocols, guidelines and quality standards to ensure programs and applications including technical security controls perform to specification
Writing and maintaining program code to meet system requirements, system designs and technical specifications in accordance with quality accredited standards
Writing, updating and maintaining technical program, end user documentation and operational procedures
Providing advice, guidance and expertise in developing proposals and strategies for software design activities such as financial evaluation and costings for recommending software purchases and upgrades
Managing testing and automation of software and application deployments
Collecting and analysing operational metrics
Developing continuous improvement and continuous delivery strategies across system design and software development
The creation and development of the tools required to support software and its management and security
Performing forensic analysis to identify anomalies or threats
Encryption and decryption
Identification and mitigation of risks that may affect the performance and security throughout the lifecycle of the product.

Education & Experience

Indicative requirements for skills assessment.

Qualification

Bachelor degree or higher

Work Experience

Relevant work experience that may substitute for formal qualifications.

Closely Related Field

A qualification in a closely related field may be accepted with additional experience.

Documents Checklist

Common documents needed for the skills assessment application.

Assessing Authority

The organisation that assesses your skills for this occupation.

Australian Computer Society Incorporated

ACS

Skills Assessment Requirements

What you need to get your skills assessed for this occupation.

This page outlines the ACS Migration Skills Assessment program for IT, Data Science, and Cyber Security professionals seeking to migrate to Australia. It covers assessment pathways, eligibility requirements, the application process, and updated fee information.

Important note

A complimentary 12-month ACS membership is included with the skills assessment. English language tests are not required. Priority processing is available at no charge for visa deadlines less than 12 weeks away (with at least 2 weeks' notice). Pre-assessment advice is not available; formal assessment must be completed before guidance is provided. Applicants must check with the Department of Home Affairs regarding visa requirements and whether a skills assessment is needed before applying for a visa.

Eligibility Criteria

6 criteria
  • Must be an IT, Data Science, or Cyber Security professional
  • Occupation must be on the ACS assessed occupations list (IT, Data Science, or Cyber Security ANZSCO codes)
  • Must have relevant professional ICT qualifications and/or work experience at professional level
  • Only work experience from age 18 and over is applicable
  • Assessment pathway depends on experience level and qualifications
  • Must meet criteria for chosen assessment pathway (Temporary Graduate, Post Australian Study, General Skills, or Recognition of Prior Learning)
  • Proof of identity/personal identification documents
  • Educational qualifications documentation
  • Work experience evidence and employment episode details
  • Documents listed in specific pathway document checklists (available via MSA InfoHub)

Visa Eligibility

Visa subclasses this occupation qualifies for.

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Visa Eligibility

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  • All eligible visa subclasses and streams
  • Pathway-specific caveats and conditions
  • Direct links to visa guides
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Skilled List Membership

Which skilled occupation lists currently include this occupation.

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Skilled List Membership

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Track which occupation lists this role has been on — and when it was added or removed.

  • Current list membership status
  • Historical list changes
  • Caveats and conditions
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State & Territory Nominations

Which states and territories currently nominate this occupation for state-sponsored visas.

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State & Territory Nominations

Unlock state nomination data

See which states are actively nominating this occupation for 190 and 491 visas.

  • Per-state eligibility for 190 & 491
  • Nomination streams and conditions
  • Source links to official state lists
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or A$119/yr · save A$49
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Alternative Titles & Specialisations

Other names and specialisations classified under this ANZSCO code.

Alternative Titles

  • Ethical Hacker
  • ICT Vulnerability Tester
  • White Hat

Specialisations

No specialisations on record.

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