At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct penetration testing across web apps, networks, and cloud environments to identify security risks.
- Company: Join Instil, an award-winning tech company focused on innovation and employee wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, 35 days holiday, and a strong focus on personal development.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant culture that values community, inclusivity, and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while collaborating with a passionate team of experts.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in penetration testing, strong knowledge of vulnerabilities, and scripting skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
We are looking for a Senior Penetration Tester to join our growing security team, delivering high-quality testing across web applications, networks, cloud environments, and APIs for a diverse range of clients. This is a hands-on role where you will help organisations identify and remediate real-world security risks. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to improving our tooling, methodologies, and knowledge sharing within the team. If you are passionate about offensive security and enjoy practical, problem-solving-led work in a collaborative environment, we would love to hear from you.
What You Will Be Doing
- Deliver penetration testing engagements across:
- Web applications
- Network and infrastructure
- Cloud environments
- APIs and supporting services
- Identify vulnerabilities, validate exploitability, and clearly articulate risk.
- Produce concise, actionable reports suitable for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Support clients with vulnerability remediation and technical explanations.
- Contribute to the evolution of testing methodologies and internal tooling.
- Collaborate closely with other testers and support the development of junior team members.
Essential Skills & Experience
- 2+ years experience in a hands-on penetration testing role.
- Strong experience with web application and network/infrastructure testing.
- Solid understanding of common vulnerability classes (e.g. OWASP Top 10).
- Good working knowledge of Linux, Windows, and Active Directory environments.
- Experience testing or reviewing cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
- Proficiency with common tooling such as:
- Burp Suite
- Nmap
- Nessus (or equivalent)
- Kali Linux
- Scripting experience in Python, Bash, or similar, for automation or custom tooling.
- Ability to clearly communicate technical findings and risk.
Nice to Have
- Relevant security certifications (e.g. OSCP, OSWE, CRTO, Cyber Scheme incl. CSTM or CSTL).
- UK Security Clearance.
- Experience with capture-the-flag platforms, labs, or challenge-based learning.
- Mobile application testing experience.
- Prior consultancy or client-facing experience.
Why Join Instil?
- Recognition That Matters: A discretionary annual performance bonus that rewards your impact and contribution to our success.
- Flexibility Built In: Flexible working arrangements and summer hours, because life isn’t 9 to 5, and balance matters.
- Financial Security: A highly competitive pension scheme with generous employer contributions, private healthcare, and life assurance for peace of mind.
- Health & Wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme, mental health support, cycle-to-work scheme, and regular social events to keep our culture vibrant.
- Time to Recharge: 35 days holiday, enhanced maternity pay, and family-first policies so you can focus on what matters most.
- Learning Never Stops: From courses to certifications, we’ll invest in your development so you can keep growing and shaping what’s next.
- Community & Culture: Opportunities to volunteer, give back, and be part of initiatives that make Instil a truly inclusive and connected workplace.
And that’s just the start, drop us a note to find out more.
Company Description
Instil has been delivering world-class software engineering and technology solutions for over 20 years, trusted by global brands to solve complex challenges and drive innovation. From modernising legacy systems to building cutting-edge applications, we help our clients navigate an ever-changing digital landscape with confidence and agility. We’re proud to be an award-winning employer, reflecting how our people are at the heart of everything we do: Recognised as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years, and in 2024 ranked in the Top 20 Best Workplaces in the UK for medium-sized companies. Winner of Company of the Year at the Digital DNA Awards 2022, celebrating excellence in Northern Ireland’s tech sector. Driven by a love for technology and a commitment to excellence, we bring together people who want to make a difference. We’ll support your journey, because your success is part of ours.
Senior Penetration Tester TLNT1_NI in Belfast employer: IrishJobs
Instil is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and growth of its employees, offering a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible working arrangements, a competitive pension scheme, and extensive professional development opportunities. With a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally, making it a rewarding place to build a career in cybersecurity. Recognised as a Great Place to Work and celebrated for its commitment to excellence, Instil is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where every team member can contribute to meaningful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Penetration Tester TLNT1_NI in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry meetups, conferences, or online webinars to connect with fellow penetration testers and potential employers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your penetration testing projects, including any cool tools or methodologies you've developed. This will give you an edge when chatting with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Engage in capture-the-flag challenges or contribute to open-source security projects. This not only sharpens your skills but also demonstrates your passion for offensive security to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your application to highlight your hands-on experience and how you can contribute to our collaborative environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Penetration Tester TLNT1_NI in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Penetration Tester role. Highlight your hands-on experience with web applications, networks, and cloud environments. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, don’t just list your skills—show us how you've used them in real-world scenarios. Whether it's identifying vulnerabilities or producing actionable reports, we love seeing practical examples of your work.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your cover letter or any supporting documents, keep it clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to technical findings and risks. Make it easy for us to see your value!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at IrishJobs
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
Make sure you're well-versed in the tools mentioned in the job description, like Burp Suite and Nmap. Familiarity with these tools will not only help you during practical assessments but also show your potential employer that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Brush Up on Vulnerability Classes
Since the role involves identifying vulnerabilities, take some time to review common vulnerability classes, especially the OWASP Top 10. Being able to discuss these confidently will demonstrate your expertise and understanding of real-world security risks.
✨Prepare for Technical Communication
You'll need to articulate technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as this skill is crucial for producing actionable reports and supporting clients with remediation.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role emphasises teamwork, so be ready to discuss your experience working collaboratively. Share examples of how you've supported junior team members or contributed to team methodologies, as this will highlight your fit within their culture.
