Senior Penetration Tester

National Physical Laboratory; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology institution in the UK is seeking a Security Testing expert to deliver comprehensive security assessments on diverse systems. You will mentor junior team members and contribute to enhancing network security through practical testing approaches. Ideal candidates have a passion for security and experience in penetration testing. This role requires the ability to obtain SC clearance and offers opportunities for continuous professional development.

Benefits

Access to top-tier learning platforms

Mentoring opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in penetration testing with a commitment to continuous learning.
• Proven ability to dissect and solve complex technical problems.
• Ability to obtain SC clearance.

Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver security assessments across complex systems.
• Mentor and support junior team members.
• Investigate findings and contribute to technical reports.

Skills

Penetration testing

Security analysis

Scripting

Knowledge of telecoms protocols

Job description

Overview

Security Testing Role – Dive Deep, Make an Impact. You’re motivated by a deep curiosity and a dedication to excellence. Whether dissecting telecoms protocols or navigating the intricacies of enterprise IT systems, you thrive on understanding how things work — and how they can be fortified. Your approach is hands-on and analytical, grounded in experience and a clear sense of purpose: making systems more secure and resilient.

You’ll join a collaborative, inclusive team that values expertise, diverse perspectives, and mutual support. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and guide emerging talent, shaping the next generation of penetration testers. We’ll give you the freedom to explore, experiment, and grow — while contributing to the development of robust, secure networks that have real-world impact.

What You’ll Be Doing

• As a senior member of the team, shape and deliver security assessments across complex hardware and software systems.
• Steer technical assessments of telecoms equipment, identify vulnerabilities, and guide the direction of testing activities.
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering their development through hands-on guidance and knowledge sharing.
• Apply advanced testing techniques, including both positive and negative approaches such as fuzzing, to rigorously evaluate network functions and protocols.
• Scripting and automating assessments to enhance efficiency, consistency, and scalability across projects.
• Investigate and articulate findings.
• Contribute to high-quality technical reports, ensuring they are thorough and insightful.
• Help shape the test strategy.
• Successful applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Birmingham at least twice a week.

What We’re Looking For

• We’re seeking individuals who bring both depth of experience and a collaborative mindset to the team. Ideally, you:
  • Thrive in complex technical environments, with a proven ability to dissect and solve challenging problems across diverse systems.
  • Contribute fresh perspectives, while working effectively with colleagues across disciplines to drive innovation and shared success.
  • Demonstrate a genuine passion for security testing, with a commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead of emerging threats.
  • Have hands-on experience in penetration testing, coupled with a solid understanding of exploitation techniques and how they apply in real-world scenarios.

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

Next Steps

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

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore we may bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

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.