At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security assessments and conduct hands-on penetration testing in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to building secure systems.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, access to training platforms, and industry-recognised certifications.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on next-generation networks while mentoring future security specialists.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in penetration testing and a passion for continuous learning.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Dive Deep. Make an Impact. Build Secure Systems. 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.
What You’ll Be Doing
- 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.
Requirements
- Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Birmingham at least twice a week.
- We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in this specific area means that nationality, residency and security requirements are more tightly defined than others.
- 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.
What You’ll Thrive In
- 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.
Benefits
We strive to offer a great work life balance. Whether 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.
Senior Penetration Tester employer: National Physical Laboratory
Join a forward-thinking company in Birmingham that values curiosity and collaboration, where your expertise as a Senior Penetration Tester will directly impact the security of next-generation networks. Enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises work-life balance and offers flexible working options, alongside opportunities for professional growth through access to leading training platforms and industry-recognised certifications. As a senior member of the team, you'll not only enhance your skills but also play a vital role in mentoring the next generation of security specialists.
Contact Details:
National Physical Laboratory Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Penetration Tester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the industry. Attend meetups, conferences, or even online webinars. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Penetration Tester role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your penetration testing projects. Whether it's a blog, GitHub repo, or even a personal website, let your work speak for itself. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into common penetration testing scenarios. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss your problem-solving approach. Remember, they want to see how you think and tackle complex challenges!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to make an impact. Plus, applying directly gives you a better chance to stand out and show us why you’re the perfect fit for the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Penetration Tester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Curiosity:When writing your application, let your curiosity shine through! Share examples of how you've explored complex systems or tackled challenging problems. We love seeing that analytical mindset in action!
Be Clear and Concise:Make sure to articulate your skills and experiences clearly. Use straightforward language to explain your technical expertise and how it relates to the role. Remember, we want to understand your journey without getting lost in jargon!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences that align with our job description. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Penetration Tester role at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your penetration testing skills and techniques. Familiarise yourself with the latest tools and methodologies, especially those relevant to telecoms protocols and network functions. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience confidently will show that you're not just a theorist but someone who can dive deep into real-world challenges.
✨Show Your Curiosity
During the interview, demonstrate your analytical mindset by asking insightful questions about the company's security practices and challenges. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also highlights your desire to understand how things work and how they can be improved.
✨Communicate Clearly
Be prepared to articulate complex vulnerabilities and security risks in a way that both technical and non-technical audiences can understand. Practising how to explain your findings in simple terms will help you stand out as a candidate who can bridge the gap between technical details and broader implications.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since this role involves mentoring junior team members, highlight any previous experience you have in supporting or guiding others. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success and fostered a collaborative environment, as this aligns perfectly with the company’s values.