At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead advanced penetration tests and enhance security across networks, applications, and cloud environments.
- Company: Join a leading organisation focused on cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while mentoring the next generation of testers.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in penetration testing with strong technical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
VIQU has partnered with a leading organisation to recruit a Senior Penetration Tester to play a critical role in protecting business assets through the delivery of advanced offensive security services. This position offers the opportunity to lead complex engagements across network, application, and cloud environments while working closely with defensive teams on purple team exercises. The successful individual will combine deep technical expertise with strong stakeholder communication, helping translate business risk into actionable security improvements within a mature Cyber Defence function.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the scoping, planning, and delivery of complex penetration tests across networks, applications, cloud, and emerging technologies
- Conduct advanced offensive security assessments, identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities with clear remediation guidance
- Collaborate with defensive teams to design and execute purple team exercises to enhance detection and response capabilities
- Produce high-quality reports tailored to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Support vulnerability validation and provide technical expertise during incident response activities
- Mentor junior testers, promoting best practices and continuous team development
- Peer review testing methodologies and reports to ensure quality and consistency
- Stay current with evolving threats, tools, and techniques to improve overall security posture
- Contribute to secure development lifecycle (SDLC) security testing practices
- Support adherence to regulatory and industry standards including GDPR, PCI-DSS, and FCA guidance
Key Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years' experience leading penetration tests across network, web, cloud, and red/purple team engagements
- Strong knowledge of penetration testing tools, techniques, and methodologies
- In-depth understanding of MITRE ATT&CK framework and adversarial TTPs
- Proven ability to identify, validate, and clearly articulate vulnerabilities and risk
- Experience producing high-quality reports with clear remediation guidance
- Knowledge of OWASP and application security principles
- Experience with automated, dynamic, and static security testing tools
- Ability to perform threat modelling and attack surface analysis
- Experience working with or managing third-party security providers
- Relevant certifications such as OSCP, CREST, SANS, CRTO or equivalent experience
Apply today to speak with VIQU in confidence or contact Belle Hegarty via the VIQU website.
Senior Penetration Tester employer: VIQU IT Recruitment
At VIQU, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As a Senior Information Security Analyst in Southampton, you'll benefit from a hybrid working model, competitive remuneration, and opportunities for professional growth within a leading offshore law firm focused on secure technology adoption. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the realm of AI and information security while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions.
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 VIQU IT Recruitment, 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 VIQU IT Recruitment
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at VIQU IT Recruitment. 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 VIQU IT Recruitment 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 VIQU IT Recruitment that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at VIQU IT Recruitment
✨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 VIQU IT Recruitment 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 VIQU IT Recruitment.
✨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.
