Penetration Tester

National Physical Laboratory; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization in the UK is seeking a Security Testing Role where you'll uncover vulnerabilities in telecoms protocols and complex IT systems. You'll work in a collaborative environment, addressing security challenges while contributing to insightful technical reports. Opportunities for learning and flexible work arrangements are provided. Candidates must have or be eligible for SC clearance.

Benefits

Access to top-tier learning platforms

Flexible work arrangements

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Familiarity with telecoms protocols like Diameter, HTTP/2, SCTP, NGAP.
• Strong hands-on mindset for testing and analysis.
• Ability to communicate technical findings clearly.

Responsibilities

• Test hardware and software components for vulnerabilities.
• Use various testing techniques to assess network functions.
• Script and automate assessments to improve efficiency.
• Contribute to technical reports highlighting risks and implications.

Skills

Security testing

Telecoms protocols understanding

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Job description

Overview

Security Testing Role – Dive Deep, Make an Impact. You love uncovering what’s beneath the surface. Whether it’s a telecoms protocol or a complex IT system, you’re motivated to understand how things work — and how they can be made more secure. You bring a hands-on mindset to testing and analysis, and you’re motivated by the real-world impact your work can have. In this role, you’ll be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values fresh ideas, different perspectives, and mutual support. You’ll have the freedom to explore, experiment, and grow — all while helping to build more resilient networks.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Testing hardware and software components to uncover vulnerabilities in complex systems.
• Use positive and negative testing techniques (including fuzzing) to push network functions and protocols to their limits.
• Script and automate your assessments to boost efficiency and repeatability.
• Investigate and communicate your findings clearly, showcasing the technical risks and their implications.
• Contribute to high-quality technical reports that are thorough, insightful, and actionable.

Logistics

Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Birmingham at least twice a week. 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 allows. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.

What You’ll Learn

You’ll either bring existing knowledge of telecoms protocols like Diameter, HTTP/2, SCTP, NGAP—or show the curiosity and aptitude to learn. Either way, we’ll promote your growth.

You’ll get access to top-tier learning platforms, including:

• Offensive Security Learn Unlimited Subscription with Exam attempts included.
• Hack The Box
• PentesterLab subscription
• Plus telecoms-specific online learning resources

What We’re Looking For

• You’re someone who thrives in technical environments and enjoys solving complex problems.
• Brings fresh ideas and collaborates as well with others.
• Is passionate about security testing and eager to keep learning.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s build something secure together.

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 have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.