Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

Belfast Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team as a Penetration Tester, conducting tests and assessments on diverse technologies.
  • Company: Vertical Structure is a human-focused security firm, part of Instil Company, based in Belfast.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid work, flexible hours, 35 days holiday, and private healthcare.
  • Why this job: This role offers challenging work, continuous learning, and the chance to earn industry certifications.
  • Qualifications: 1-2 years experience in penetration testing and knowledge of web technologies and scripting languages required.
  • Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

At Vertical Structure (an Instil Company), we specialise in providing human-focused security and penetration testing services for web applications, cloud infrastructure and mobile applications.

We are looking for a Penetration Tester to join our dynamic team based in Belfast. As a Pen Tester, you will be part of the delivery team, conducting penetration tests and vulnerability assessments across a range of technologies and a wide range of customers including software, fintech, manufacturing, engineering, legal, and public sector. Your insights will be crucial in identifying security weaknesses and helping clients fortify their systems. We offer varied, challenging work in a supportive environment where you will find yourself constantly evolving and learning, whilst studying towards CREST (CPSA/CRT/CCT) or Cyber Scheme (CSTM/CSTL) certifications.

This role is based in Belfast and may require some onsite work with clients. Therefore, candidates should be located in Northern Ireland.

Benefits

  • Competitive Salary & Annual Bonus
  • Hybrid Working
  • Flexible Working Hours
  • Summer Working Hours
  • 35 Days Holiday
  • Private Pension (8% Employer, 5% Employee)
  • Private Healthcare
  • Life Assurance
  • Cycle to Work Scheme

Day to Day

  • Probe & exploit security vulnerabilities in client’s Infrastructure/cloud, Web Applications and Mobile Applications using a variety of penetration tests.
  • Write detailed reports outlining vulnerabilities and providing actionable recommendations.
  • Collaborate with clients during kick-off and discovery sessions, providing expert advice.
  • Stay current with the latest security threats, vulnerabilities, and trends.
  • Research offensive security techniques to assess and validate infrastructure and technologies, including cloud-based systems.
  • Automate repetitive tasks by developing scripts to streamline testing processes.
  • Mentor junior penetration testers and contribute to their professional development.
  • Play a key role in enhancing existing tools, methodologies, and reports.
  • Occasionally support pre-sales efforts by acting as a penetration testing subject-matter expert.
  • Communicating Security Vulnerabilities to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Need to Have

  • At least 1-2 years of experience in penetration testing.
  • Demonstrable skills in the Penetration Testing/Ethical Hacking field.
  • In-depth knowledge of various web technologies, operating systems, particularly Linux, Windows, and Active Directory.
  • Knowledge of Scripting Languages e.g. Python, Shell Scripting etc.
  • Strong experience with web application and network pen testing methodologies.
  • Proficiency in using penetration testing tools such as BurpSuite Pro, Nmap, and Nessus.
  • Familiarity with Kali Linux and the associated penetration testing tool suite.
  • Experience in penetration testing simulations like Hack the Box or Capture the Flag.
  • Excellent communication and technical report writing skills.
  • Right to work in the UK (we are unable to provide VISA sponsorship).

Nice to Have

  • Relevant security certifications (e.g. OSCP, CREST, Cyber Scheme).
  • UK SC clearance.

Equality

Instil is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

Penetration Tester employer: Vertical Structure

At Vertical Structure, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Belfast that fosters continuous learning and professional growth. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and flexible working arrangements, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. Join us to be part of a supportive team where your contributions are valued, and you can make a real impact in the field of cybersecurity.
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Contact Detail:

Vertical Structure Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Penetration Tester

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest penetration testing tools and methodologies. Being well-versed in tools like BurpSuite Pro, Nmap, and Nessus will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.

✨Tip Number 2

Engage with the local cybersecurity community in Northern Ireland. Attend meetups, workshops, or conferences to network with professionals in the industry. This can lead to valuable connections and insights that may help you land the job.

✨Tip Number 3

Consider participating in online platforms like Hack the Box or Capture the Flag to sharpen your skills. These practical experiences not only enhance your technical abilities but also provide great talking points during interviews.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your previous penetration testing experiences in detail. Be ready to explain specific challenges you faced, how you approached them, and the outcomes. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and expertise to potential employers.

We think you need these skills to ace Penetration Tester

Penetration Testing
Ethical Hacking
Vulnerability Assessment
Web Application Security
Cloud Security
Mobile Application Security
Linux Operating System
Windows Operating System
Active Directory
Scripting Languages (Python, Shell Scripting)
BurpSuite Pro
Nmap
Nessus
Kali Linux
Technical Report Writing
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Mentoring
Research Skills
Automation of Testing Processes

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in penetration testing and ethical hacking. Include specific tools you've used, such as BurpSuite Pro and Nmap, and any relevant projects or simulations like Hack the Box.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for cybersecurity and detail how your skills align with the role. Mention your familiarity with various web technologies and your commitment to staying updated on security trends.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since the role involves communicating vulnerabilities to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, emphasise your ability to write detailed reports and explain complex concepts clearly in your application.

Highlight Continuous Learning: Mention any ongoing education or certifications you are pursuing, such as CREST or Cyber Scheme certifications. This shows your commitment to professional development and staying current in the field.

How to prepare for a job interview at Vertical Structure

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

Be prepared to discuss your experience with penetration testing tools like BurpSuite Pro, Nmap, and Nessus. Bring examples of past projects or simulations you've worked on, such as Hack the Box or Capture the Flag, to demonstrate your hands-on skills.

✨Communicate Clearly

Since you'll need to explain security vulnerabilities to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, practice articulating complex concepts in simple terms. This will show your ability to bridge the gap between technical details and client understanding.

✨Stay Updated on Security Trends

Research the latest security threats and vulnerabilities before your interview. Being knowledgeable about current trends will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to continuous learning in the field of cybersecurity.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to outline how you would approach a specific penetration test or vulnerability assessment. Think through your methodology and be ready to discuss your thought process and decision-making.

Penetration Tester
Vertical Structure
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  • Penetration Tester

    Belfast
    Full-Time
    36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-04-19

  • V

    Vertical Structure

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