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- Tasks: Lead ethical hacking and exploit development to combat serious online crime.
- Company: Join the Met's Cyber unit, tackling organised criminal networks.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, competitive pension, and flexible working conditions.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in cyber security while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Computer Science or Cyber Security and ethical hacking qualification required.
- Other info: Great opportunities for professional growth and training in digital forensics.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Met’s Cyber unit tackles the most serious criminality online. We use a variety of proactive tactics to target organised criminal networks, and Computer Network Exploitation (CNE) is one of these. We’re currently looking for people with a proven track record in CNE to take a leading role in the development of our capabilities, with a particular focus on:
- Technical ethical hacking – this will involve working with the Senior Investigating Officer to develop and deliver a technical strategy. You’ll also create, test and deploy exploits.
- Infrastructure – here you’ll manage infrastructure projects to ensure the unit remains at the forefront of technical innovation.
- Vulnerability assessment – your focus will be on identifying weaknesses in the network environments of criminals for exploitation, and using penetration testing techniques to enable businesses to target harden.
Knowledge, skills and experience
To be a success in this vital role you should possess the following:
- A degree in Computer Science, Cyber Security or a related technical IT subject
- An Ethical Hacking qualification from a recognised provider
- Excellent written and oral skills in order to articulate and explain technical processes
- Risk assessment skills in order to manage technical deployments
- A minimum of three years’ experience in Penetration Testing/Network Exploitation
- Development experience in JavaScript, HTML, SQL, Python, C, C++, C#, Java or similar languages
- Experience in exploit development and Operating System internals (Linux and Windows)
- Previous experience of having worked in a government or law enforcement environment would be desirable
Training and development
The Met will invest in your continued professional development and train you in ancillary disciplines such as digital forensics. This will involve integrating into a technical unit of subject matter experts and working alongside experienced cyber investigators.
Benefits
When you join us you’ll enjoy the great benefits that you’d expect from one of London’s largest employers. These include generous annual leave, a highly competitive pension, excellent opportunities for progression, interest free season ticket loans, membership of Met sports and social clubs, flexible working conditions and much more.
Vetting
This post requires access to the most sensitive intelligence material on a daily basis. Applicants must hold or be prepared to undergo National Security Vetting (NSV) Security Check (enhanced) (SC(e)) level before taking up the post.
How to apply
To begin your career at the Met, please click the "apply button". The application process requires a comprehensive CV and an online application form. Please ensure that your documents are saved in either PDF or Word format, clearly labelled as CV. Completed applications must be submitted by 23:55 on 21 April 2026. Once received, your application will be reviewed against eligibility criteria, following this, your application will be reviewed by the hiring manager. The application review for this vacancy will commence 2 weeks after the vacancy has closed. Following application review, successful candidates will be invited to interview. Interview dates will commence 2 weeks after the hiring managers review.
Senior CNE Engineer: Ethical Hacking & Exploit Development employer: Metropolitan Police.
Contact Detail:
Metropolitan Police. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior CNE Engineer: Ethical Hacking & Exploit Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the cyber security field. Attend meetups, conferences, or even online webinars. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your ethical hacking projects, exploits you've developed, or any vulnerability assessments you've conducted. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as communication is key in this role. We want to see how you articulate your thought process!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team at the Met.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior CNE Engineer: Ethical Hacking & Exploit Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your experience in ethical hacking and penetration testing, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant qualifications. Keep it clear and concise, and remember to save it as a PDF or Word document.
Nail the Online Application Form: When filling out the online application form, be thorough and honest. Use this opportunity to elaborate on your skills and experiences that align with the role. Don’t rush it; take your time to ensure everything is accurate and well-presented.
Show Off Your Technical Skills: In your written application, make sure to highlight your technical skills, especially in programming languages like Python, Java, and SQL. Mention any specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your expertise in exploit development and vulnerability assessment.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits!
How to prepare for a job interview at Metropolitan Police.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical skills, especially in ethical hacking and exploit development. Be ready to discuss your experience with penetration testing and the programming languages mentioned in the job description. The more specific examples you can provide, the better!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to demonstrate how you've tackled complex problems in past roles. Think of scenarios where you identified vulnerabilities or developed exploits. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent written and oral skills are a must, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to articulate your thought process during the interview, so being able to break down complex ideas will show your communication prowess.
✨Understand the Met's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the Met’s Cyber unit and its objectives. Knowing their proactive tactics against organised crime will help you align your answers with their goals. Show genuine interest in how your role can contribute to their mission.