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
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend meetups, webinars, or even local tech events. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your penetration testing projects or contributions to open-source security tools. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do beyond just a CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews like a pro. Research the company’s security posture and be ready to discuss how you can help improve it. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love hearing from passionate candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Penetration Tester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Penetration Tester role. Highlight your experience with penetration testing tools and methodologies, and don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications you hold. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about offensive security and how your experience can help us enhance our Cyber Defence function. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves working closely with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, make sure to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. Whether it’s in your CV or cover letter, show us you can bridge that gap!
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 at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at VIQU IT Recruitment
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the penetration testing tools and methodologies mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with the latest techniques and frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK, as this will show your deep technical expertise during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to be asked about specific scenarios where you've identified and exploited vulnerabilities. Prepare examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and how you’ve provided clear remediation guidance to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves collaborating with defensive teams and mentoring junior testers, practice articulating complex security concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. This will demonstrate your ability to translate business risks into actionable improvements.
✨Stay Current with Industry Trends
Research the latest threats, tools, and techniques in cybersecurity. Being able to discuss recent developments or trends during your interview will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to continuous learning in the field.
