At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cutting-edge vulnerability research and exploit development to enhance cybersecurity.
- Company: Join a global authority in security research with a collaborative and innovative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Participate in competitions and mentor others in a dynamic, supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while advancing your skills and career.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of vulnerability research and experience with various platforms and architectures.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
A Lead Security Researcher within the Exploit Development Group (EDG) is responsible for conducting high-impact vulnerability research and exploit development that advances the state of the art in cybersecurity. The role contributes directly to NCC Group’s reputation as a global authority in security research by delivering original research with deep technical expertise and representing the organisation externally through publications, presentations, and industry engagement. Through both long-term strategic research and short-notice tactical support, this role helps protect clients, strengthen NCC Group services and shape the wider security community.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct vulnerability research and exploit development across a range of platforms, architectures, and technologies.
- Deliver high-quality vulnerabilities and reliable exploits as part of strategic research programmes.
- Provide short-notice tactical support to consulting, professional, and managed services teams in areas such as reverse engineering and exploit development.
- Advance exploit development techniques and contribute to world-leading security research.
- Participate in vulnerability research and exploit development competitions, such as Pwn2Own.
- Publish research findings and support their internal and external promotion through articles, whitepapers, presentations, and conference talks.
- Act as a subject matter expert within NCC Group, mentoring and supporting colleagues who are developing skills in vulnerability research and exploitation.
- Collaborate effectively with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver research and client outcomes to the highest possible standard.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Strong knowledge of vulnerability research and exploitation techniques.
- Experience with major CPU architectures and operating systems or platforms.
- Ability to reverse engineer software written in both unmanaged and managed languages.
- Understanding of common programming languages, vulnerability classes and exploitation methods.
- Knowledge of modern exploitation mitigations and approaches for bypassing them.
- Ability to research and exploit unfamiliar instruction sets, programming languages and platforms.
- Clear written communication skills for documenting and presenting complex technical findings.
Benefits
- Flexible Working: Balance your work and personal life with our flexible working options.
- Generous Holiday Allowance: Enjoy 25 days of holiday, plus bank holidays, with the option to buy up to 5 additional days of annual leave.
- Medicash & Critical Illness Scheme Financial & Investment Benefits: Enjoy peace of mind with our Pension, Life Assurance, and Share Save Scheme.
- Community & Volunteering Programmes: Make a difference in your community with our volunteering opportunities.
- Green Car Scheme: Drive green and save money with our eco-friendly car scheme.
- Cycle Scheme: Stay fit and healthy with our cycle-to-work scheme.
- Special Time Off: Take time off for those big moments in life, like getting married/entering into a civil partnership, becoming a grandparent, and welcoming home a new pet.
- Family Planning: Benefit from our generous maternity and paternity leave, as well as time off and support for those undergoing fertility treatments.
Lead Security Researcher — Flexible Exploit & Vulnerability Lead in Cheltenham employer: NCC Group
NCC Group is an exceptional employer for a Lead Security Researcher, offering a dynamic work environment in Cheltenham that fosters innovation and collaboration. With flexible working options, generous holiday allowances, and a strong commitment to employee growth through mentoring and community engagement, NCC Group empowers its team to excel in the cybersecurity field while making a meaningful impact. The company's reputation as a global authority in security research, combined with opportunities for professional development and participation in industry competitions, makes it an attractive place for those seeking a rewarding career in cybersecurity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Security Researcher — Flexible Exploit & Vulnerability Lead in Cheltenham
✨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 NCC Group, 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 NCC Group
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at NCC Group. 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 Lead Security Researcher — Flexible Exploit & Vulnerability Lead in Cheltenham
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 NCC Group 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 NCC Group that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at NCC Group
✨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 NCC Group 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 NCC Group.
✨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.
