At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct penetration testing and provide actionable reports for clients.
- Company: Join Cyber Guarded Ltd, a leading cyber security firm in Belfast.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, private healthcare, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cyber security while working with diverse clients.
- Qualifications: Experience in penetration testing; CSTM or CRT status preferred.
- Other info: Salary up to £70,000 based on experience; ongoing professional development support.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Location: Belfast Hybrid (2 days in office / client site as required)
Type: Full-time | Flexible working hours | Hybrid
Applicants must be a UK or Irish citizen (or hold an equivalent status eligible for full UK security clearance) with 5 years of continuous UK address history.
Applicants will ideally be based in Northern Ireland (or can commute or relocate) to meet hybrid work and client site requirements. Sponsorship is not available.
Who we are:
Cyber Guarded Ltd is a long-established and independent cyber security company based in Belfast. As the premier NCSC-approved supplier for CHECK Penetration Testing in Northern Ireland, including Cyber Incident Exercising being conducted at the highest levels, along with Cyber Advisor – Cyber Essentials, we support clients across both public and private sectors.
As we continue to grow significantly, securing significant contracts across Northern Ireland, we’re strengthening our technical team to meet demand. We are seeking skilled Penetration Testers who are either already Cyber Scheme Team Member (CSTM) or CREST Registered Penetration Tester (CRT) or have the technical ability and motivation to gain the above qualifications in the near future to achieve NCSC CHECK Penetration Testing status.
What You’ll Do:
- Perform infrastructure, web, cloud, and OT penetration testing
- Produce clear, actionable reports and remediation advice
- Engage with clients through the full testing lifecycle
- Contribute to tooling, methodology, and internal R&D
What We’re Looking For:
- Hands-on experience in professional penetration testing
- Either: Already hold CHECK Team Member or CHECK Lead status, or Have the technical depth and readiness to pursue the CSTM exam soon
- Hold a UKCSC Professional Registration Title of Practitioner, Principal or Chartered in the Security Testing Specialism.
- Strong working knowledge of networks, Linux/Windows, and web technologies
- Experience with tools such as Burp Suite, Metasploit, Kali Linux, and Nessus
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and reporting skills
What We Offer
- Hybrid working – home-based with 2 days per week in our Belfast office or based on client site as needed for the duration of a penetration testing engagement.
- Flexible hours and a supportive, down-to-earth team culture.
- Monthly team lunches and quarterly team days out
- Comprehensive pension and sick pay
- 23 Leave days and 10 statutory public holidays each year
- Private Healthcare
- Annual Specsavers optical vouchers
- Exposure to a wide range of sectors, clients and technical environments.
- Ongoing support for professional development and certifications.
- Salary: up to £70,000 depending on experience and qualifications.
If you\’re looking to join a growing team delivering meaningful work across critical industries and want to make an impact without the bureaucracy, we’d love to hear from you.
Please note: only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Cyber Security Specialist (Pen Testing) employer: Cyber Guarded Ltd
Contact Detail:
Cyber Guarded Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cyber Security Specialist (Pen Testing)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific tools mentioned in the job description, such as Burp Suite and Metasploit. Having hands-on experience with these tools will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your readiness for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the cyber security community in Northern Ireland. Attend local meetups or webinars to network with professionals in the field. This can provide you with valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals within Cyber Guarded Ltd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving skills in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of challenges you've faced in penetration testing and how you overcame them. This will showcase your analytical thinking and practical experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Cyber Guarded Ltd's recent projects and clients. Understanding their work and values will help you tailor your conversation during interviews, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Cyber Security Specialist (Pen Testing)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in penetration testing and cyber security. Emphasise any qualifications like CHECK Team Member or CREST Registered Penetration Tester, as well as your hands-on experience with tools such as Burp Suite and Metasploit.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cyber security and your understanding of the role. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to engage with clients throughout the testing lifecycle.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your technical skills, including knowledge of networks, Linux/Windows, and web technologies. Also, mention your readiness to pursue further qualifications if you do not already hold them.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the field of cyber security.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cyber Guarded Ltd
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with penetration testing tools like Burp Suite, Metasploit, and Nessus. Highlight specific projects where you successfully identified vulnerabilities and how you approached remediation.
✨Understand the Company’s Focus
Research Cyber Guarded Ltd and their role as a premier NCSC-approved supplier for CHECK Penetration Testing. Familiarise yourself with their client sectors and recent projects to demonstrate your interest and alignment with their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making when faced with security challenges during penetration tests.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Since you'll be engaging with clients throughout the testing lifecycle, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. Good communication skills are essential, so ensure you can convey your findings and recommendations clearly.