Penetration Tester

Penetration Tester

Full-Time 50000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Darkshield

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct penetration testing and identify vulnerabilities in client systems.
  • Company: Join Darkshield, a leading cybersecurity agency in York, UK.
  • Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, professional development support, and a collaborative environment.
  • Other info: Engage in diverse projects with a passionate cybersecurity team.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by protecting businesses from cyber threats.
  • Qualifications: Experience in penetration testing and proficiency in security tools.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.

About Darkshield

Darkshield is an expert cybersecurity agency based in York, UK. We help organisations navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape by providing expert services in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, managed security, and more. Our mission is to protect businesses by delivering tailored, cutting‐edge cybersecurity solutions that keep them resilient and ahead of cyber threats.

The Role

We are looking for an experienced Penetration Tester to join our team. You will conduct security assessments and ethical hacking activities to identify vulnerabilities in client systems. This role requires a deep understanding of attack techniques, security frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct penetration testing on networks, applications, and infrastructure.
  • Identify, analyse, and report security vulnerabilities.
  • Simulate cyberattacks to evaluate security defences.
  • Develop security testing methodologies and improve existing processes.
  • Collaborate with clients to provide security recommendations and mitigation strategies.
  • Stay up to date with the latest security threats, exploits, and hacking techniques.
  • Assist in security awareness training and red team exercises.
  • Provide clear and actionable reports to both technical and non‐technical audiences.

Requirements

  • Proven experience in penetration testing and ethical hacking.
  • Proficiency in tools such as Burp Suite, Metasploit, Nmap, Wireshark, and Kali Linux.
  • Strong knowledge of web application, network, and infrastructure security.
  • Experience with scripting and automation using Python, Bash, or PowerShell.
  • Certifications such as OSCP, OSCE, CEH, or similar are highly desirable.
  • Understanding of regulatory compliance standards (ISO 27001, GDPR, NIST, etc.).
  • Excellent problem‐solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate findings and recommendations effectively to clients.

Why Join Darkshield?

  • Work with a passionate and expert cybersecurity team.
  • Engage in challenging and diverse projects.
  • Support for professional development, including training and certification assistance.
  • Flexible working arrangements, including remote options.
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment.

Penetration Tester employer: Darkshield

Darkshield is an exceptional employer located in York, UK, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment for cybersecurity professionals. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide support for professional development through training and certification assistance, alongside flexible working arrangements that promote work-life balance. Join our passionate team to engage in challenging projects while making a meaningful impact in the field of cybersecurity.

Darkshield

Contact Details:

Darkshield Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Penetration Tester

Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community

Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!

Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions

Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including Darkshield, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.

Tailor Your Online Presence

Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!

Apply Directly Through Darkshield

Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Darkshield. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.

We think you need these skills to ace Penetration Tester

Penetration Testing
Ethical Hacking
Vulnerability Assessment
Security Frameworks
Risk Mitigation Strategies
Burp Suite
Metasploit

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!

Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!

Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at Darkshield insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.

Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to Darkshield that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.

How to prepare for a job interview at Darkshield

Sharpen Your Technical Skills

For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.

Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect the interviewers at Darkshield to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.

Highlight Your Certifications

Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at Darkshield.

Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity

Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.