Senior Penetration Tester

Placements24; Redmond (WA); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Training & certifications support

Hybrid work model

Generous paid time off

Access to cutting-edge security tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Penetration Tester to join our security team in a hybrid role based in Welkom. You will lead tests across web, mobile, networks, and cloud, simulating real-world attacks to identify and remediate weaknesses.

You will craft actionable reports, mentor junior staff, and stay current with the latest tools and threat actors. A strong background in OWASP Top 10 and scripting is essential, with relevant certs highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.
• In-depth knowledge of OWASP Top 10 and common attack vectors.
• Proficiency with Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark.
• Experience with Python or PowerShell for tool development and automation.
• Strong networking, OS, and web tech understanding.
• Certs like OSCP, CEH, CISSP, or GPEN desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct penetration tests on web apps, networks, mobile apps, and cloud.
• Perform vulnerability assessments and analyze results.
• Develop detailed reports with findings and remediation.
• Simulate advanced threats and attack vectors.
• Define scope with clients for testing.
• Stay current with tools and threat landscapes.
• Develop and maintain testing methodologies.
• Mentor junior testers and share knowledge.
• Communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Skills

Penetration testing

Vulnerability assessment

APTs simulation

Mentoring

Technical reporting

Scripting

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Cybersecurity

6+ years experience in penetration testing

Tools

Metasploit

Burp Suite

Nmap

Wireshark

Python

PowerShell

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent technology solutions provider, is seeking an experienced Senior Penetration Tester to join their expanding security team based in Welkom, Free State. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for flexibility while maintaining team collaboration. As a Senior Penetration Tester, you will be at the forefront of identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities in our clients' systems, applications, and networks. Your expertise will be crucial in simulating real-world attacks to uncover weaknesses before malicious actors can exploit them. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a diverse range of technologies and industries, providing essential security assurance services. You will be instrumental in helping clients strengthen their defenses and protect their critical assets from sophisticated cyber threats. The role demands creativity, technical prowess, and a deep understanding of attacker methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive penetration tests on web applications, networks, mobile applications, and cloud environments.
• Perform vulnerability assessments and analyze results to identify exploitable weaknesses.
• Develop detailed and actionable reports outlining findings, methodologies, and remediation recommendations.
• Simulate advanced persistent threats (APTs) and other sophisticated attack vectors.
• Collaborate with clients to define the scope and objectives of penetration testing engagements.
• Stay current with the latest penetration testing tools, techniques, and threat landscapes.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of penetration testing methodologies and frameworks.
• Mentor junior penetration testers and contribute to team knowledge sharing.
• Communicate technical findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.
• In-depth knowledge of common attack vectors, exploitation techniques, and security vulnerabilities (e.g., OWASP Top 10).
• Proficiency with various penetration testing tools (e.g., Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark).
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, PowerShell) for tool development and automation.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols, operating systems, and web technologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills.
• Relevant certifications such as OSCP, CEH, CISSP, or GPEN are highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, collaborating remotely and on-site in Welkom.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, reflective of your expertise and contribution.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, with support for training, certifications, and attending industry conferences.
• A dynamic and collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and professional growth.
• The hybrid model supports work-life balance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday allowances.
• Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies in the cybersecurity field.
• Professional development programs designed to advance your career.
• Be part of a team that makes a significant impact on client security in Welkom and beyond.