At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security assessments and conduct hands-on penetration testing in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join UKTL, a leader in Telecoms testing with a commitment to innovation and security.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, enhanced pension schemes, and access to top training platforms.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the security of next-generation networks while mentoring future specialists.
- Qualifications: Experience in penetration testing and a passion for security and continuous learning.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About the Role
You’re driven by curiosity and a desire to understand how things really work — and how they can be made more secure. Whether dissecting telecoms protocols, exploring enterprise systems, or analysing hardware, you take a hands‑on, analytical approach to solving complex challenges. In this role, you’ll join a collaborative and inclusive team where your expertise is valued, your ideas are heard, and your work directly contributes to strengthening real‑world systems. You’ll have the freedom to explore, experiment, and grow — while helping shape the security of next‑generation networks. As a senior member of the team, you’ll also play an important role in supporting and mentoring others, helping to develop the next generation of security testing specialists.
Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver security assessments across complex hardware, software, and telecoms systems.
- Conduct hands‑on penetration testing within a dedicated in‑house lab environment, ensuring safe and controlled testing.
- Apply advanced testing techniques — including both positive and negative approaches (e.g. fuzzing) — to rigorously assess network functions and protocols.
- Identify, investigate, and clearly articulate vulnerabilities and security risks to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
- Develop scripts and automate testing processes to improve efficiency, consistency, and scalability.
- Produce high‑quality, insightful technical reports that support remediation and strengthen security posture.
- Mentor and support junior team members through hands‑on guidance and knowledge sharing.
- Contribute to the development of test strategies and help shape the direction of security assessments.
Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Birmingham at least twice a week.
Benefits and Working Arrangements
We strive to offer a great work‑life balance – if you are looking for full‑time, part‑time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.
About You
- Have strong experience in penetration testing, with a solid understanding of exploitation techniques and how they apply in real‑world environments.
- Enjoy deep technical problem solving and working across complex, evolving systems.
- Bring a collaborative mindset — sharing knowledge, supporting others, and contributing fresh ideas.
- Are passionate about security testing and committed to continuous learning and staying ahead of emerging threats.
- Have a background in areas such as networking, infrastructure, software development, or telecoms (preferred but not essential).
What You’ll Learn
You’ll bring solid experience — and we’ll help you take it even further. Whether you already have knowledge of telecoms protocols such as Diameter, HTTP/2, SCTP, and NGAP, or demonstrate a strong ability to learn them quickly, we’ll support your growth every step of the way. You’ll gain access to leading training platforms and work towards industry‑recognised certifications, helping you continuously develop your expertise.
About Us
UKTL is building leading‑edge Telecoms testing facilities to keep our telecommunications networks safe, accelerate the roll‑out of new technologies, and grow our world‑leading telecoms sector to maintain resiliency and security. Successful candidates will join a state‑of‑the‑art facility and be supporting the team conducting testing and research on the latest technologies and innovations in the industry. You will work alongside our infrastructure and Cybersecurity professionals to ensure that the UK’s world‑class Telecoms infrastructure grows in a resilient and secure manner underpinning growth in other industry sectors.
Diversity & Inclusion
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
We offer a wealth of above industry standard benefits, such as enhanced pension scheme, flexible working, and more that can be found in our rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
To work in this role, you will need to hold an SC clearance with no restrictions. You are welcome to apply without already holding SC clearance; however, you will not be able to start in post until the clearance has been successfully granted.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
Senior Penetration Tester employer: National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
At UKTL, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values your expertise and encourages continuous learning. With access to state-of-the-art facilities in Birmingham, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful security assessments while mentoring the next generation of specialists, all within a flexible working environment that prioritises work-life balance and personal growth.
Contact Details:
National Physical Laboratory (NPL) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior 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 National Physical Laboratory (NPL), 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 National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at National Physical Laboratory (NPL). 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 Senior Penetration Tester
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 National Physical Laboratory (NPL) 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 National Physical Laboratory (NPL) that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
✨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 National Physical Laboratory (NPL) 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 National Physical Laboratory (NPL).
✨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.
