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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security testing strategy and mentor a team in an agile environment.
- Company: Join a high-profile UK government organisation focused on secure digital services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 30 days leave, and a generous pension contribution.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public value while working in a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in security testing and leadership; relevant certifications preferred.
- Other info: Remote work available; part-time options for better work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 41571 - 56784 £ per year.
Job Description
- Lead the organisation’s approach to non-functional security testing across the full software development lifecycle.
- Manage and support a team of testers, providing coaching, mentoring, and oversight of workstreams.
- Run and oversee vulnerability assessments and penetration tests using tools such as Burp Suite.
- Design, implement, and maintain automated security testing pipelines and reporting mechanisms.
- Act as a subject matter expert and advocate for secure development and testing practices.
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience in security testing, with a strong focus on non-functional testing approaches.
- Hands-on experience leading, coaching, or managing technical teams.
- Certification in ethical hacking or penetration testing (e.g. 7Safe CSTA, GIAC), or evidence of working towards one.
- Experience using at least 5 of the following:
- Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Postman or SOAP UI, OAuth2/OpenID
- Jenkins/Concourse, Unix/Linux, AWS
- SQL/MongoDB/Oracle, Git, Karate DSL or Rest Assured
- SAST/DAST tools, IaC scanning, secrets detection tools
- Threat modelling (e.g. STRIDE, PASTA), OWASP Top 10 testing
Salary & benefits
- Base salary: £41,571 – £45,784
- DDaT allowance: £4,350 – £11,000 (depending on skills/experience)
- Civil Service Pension: Employer contribution of 28.97%
- Leave: 30 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays + 1 privilege day
- Flexible working: No core hours, hybrid/remote working
- Part-time options: Minimum 30 hours per week over 4 or 5 days
About the organisation This is a high-profile government organisation committed to delivering secure, user-friendly digital services. Their culture promotes inclusion, learning, and wellbeing, with flexible working at its core. As a Disability Confident Leader and an equal opportunity employer, they welcome applications from all backgrounds.
Lead Test Engineer employer: Hoop Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Hoop Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Test Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific security testing tools mentioned in the job description, such as Burp Suite and OWASP ZAP. Having hands-on experience with these tools will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your technical expertise during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed or mentored teams in previous roles. This will highlight your ability to lead a team of testers effectively, which is a key requirement for this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in security testing. Being able to discuss recent developments or case studies in the field can set you apart and show your commitment to continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to non-functional testing and how it integrates into the software development lifecycle. Articulating your strategy clearly will demonstrate your understanding of the role's responsibilities and your readiness to take ownership.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Test Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in security testing and non-functional testing approaches. Include specific tools you've used, such as Burp Suite or OWASP ZAP, and any relevant certifications.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed technical teams. Mention your passion for secure development practices and your commitment to continuous improvement.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you have led or contributed to projects involving vulnerability assessments or penetration tests, be sure to detail these experiences. Highlight the impact of your work on security practices within those projects.
Highlight Soft Skills: Since the role involves mentoring and coaching, include examples of how you've supported team members in their professional development. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and influence effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hoop Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Security Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience in security testing, especially non-functional testing approaches. Be prepared to discuss specific tools you've used, like Burp Suite or OWASP ZAP, and how you've applied them in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Lead Test Engineer, you'll be expected to manage and mentor a team. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your coaching and mentoring experiences.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. Brush up on your knowledge of tools and methodologies, and be ready to explain your thought process when tackling security challenges.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Continuous Improvement
This role requires a strong focus on collaboration and continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss how you've worked with cross-functional teams to enhance security practices and contribute to a culture of learning and development.
