Senior Penetration Tester / Penetration Tester

The UK Telecoms Lab (UKTL); Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading telecoms security organization based in Birmingham is seeking skilled security professionals for various testing roles. Candidates will engage in penetration testing, analyze vulnerabilities within complex systems, and contribute to high-quality reporting. Growth opportunities include access to top-tier learning platforms and the chance to work with a collaborative team. The role offers flexible options, with a focus on work-life balance and the requirement for SC clearance.

Benefits

Access to learning platforms

Flexible working options

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience in penetration testing and exploitation techniques.
• For senior roles, demonstrate leadership and mentoring qualities.

Responsibilities

• Testing hardware and software to uncover vulnerabilities.
• Mentoring junior team members and guiding testing activities.
• Producing high‑quality technical reports.

Skills

Penetration testing

Security analysis

Collaboration in technical environments

Job description

Security Testing Roles – Dive Deep, Make an Impact

We’re looking for passionate security professionals who 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 driven by the real‑world impact your work can have.

You’ll join a collaborative, inclusive team that values expertise, diverse perspectives, and mutual support. We’ll give you the freedom to explore, experiment, and grow — while contributing to the development of robust, secure networks that matter.

What You’ll Be Doing

For Penetration Tester

• Testing hardware and software components to uncover vulnerabilities in complex systems.
• Using positive and negative testing techniques (including fuzzing) to push network functions and protocols to their limits.
• Scripting and automating assessments to boost efficiency and repeatability.
• Investigating and communicating findings clearly, showcasing technical risks and their implications.
• Contributing to high‑quality technical reports that are thorough, insightful, and actionable.

For Senior Penetration Tester

• Steering technical assessments of telecoms equipment, identifying vulnerabilities and guiding the direction of testing activities.
• Mentoring and supporting junior team members, fostering their development through hands‑on guidance and knowledge sharing.
• Helping to shape the overall test strategy and approach.
• Applying advanced testing techniques and leading scripting/automation efforts.
• Producing high‑quality technical reports and influencing security improvements.

About You

We’re seeking individuals who:

• Thrive in technical environments and enjoy solving complex problems.
• Bring fresh ideas and collaborate effectively with others.
• Are passionate about security testing and eager to keep learning.
• Have hands‑on experience in penetration testing and a solid understanding of exploitation techniques.
• For senior roles, you’ll also demonstrate leadership qualities and experience mentoring others.

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.

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 — full‑time, part‑time, or flexible options may be possible depending on the role and business needs.

Security Requirements

Due to the nature of our work, nationality, residency, and security requirements are tightly defined. You must hold SC clearance with no restrictions or have the ability to obtain it.