Penetration Tester

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a skilled Penetration Tester to join our offensive security team. You will perform network, web app, and API assessments to identify vulnerabilities and improve defenses, working in a hybrid model with some in-office collaboration.

The role requires hands-on experience, OSCP/CEH or similar is desirable, and the ability to craft clear, actionable reports for technical and non-technical audiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience.
• 2-4 years of hands-on penetration testing/offensive security experience.
• Proficiency with common penetration testing tools and frameworks.
• Strong understanding of vulnerabilities (OWASP Top 10) and exploitation techniques.
• Knowledge of networking, OS (Windows/Linux), and web technologies.
• Ability to write clear, concise reports.
• Scripting (Python, Bash) a plus.
• Certifications such as OSCP/CEH/GPEN/LPT desirable.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive penetration tests on networks, web apps, APIs, and mobile apps.
• Conduct social engineering campaigns to assess human vulnerabilities.
• Identify, exploit, and document security weaknesses.
• Use tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark.
• Develop detailed reports outlining findings and remediations.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay updated with testing methodologies, tools and threats.
• Collaborate with internal teams to implement security improvements.
• Participate in red team exercises to simulate sophisticated attacks.
• Help develop testing methodologies and scripts.

Skills

Penetration testing

Offensive security

Report writing

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Metasploit

Burp Suite

Nmap

Wireshark

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing cybersecurity firm in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is looking for a skilled Penetration Tester to join their offensive security team. This role is essential for proactively identifying vulnerabilities in our clients' systems, networks, and applications before malicious actors can exploit them. You will conduct various types of penetration tests, including network, web application, and social engineering assessments, to provide actionable insights and improve overall security posture. This position is ideal for a creative and technically adept individual passionate about breaking and defending systems. Working within a KwaZulu-Natal context, you will contribute to securing a diverse range of industries. The role requires a deep understanding of exploitation techniques, security tools, and reporting methodologies. You will be a key player in simulating real-world attacks to test the effectiveness of defenses.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive penetration tests on networks, web applications, APIs, and mobile applications.
• Conduct social engineering campaigns to assess human vulnerabilities.
• Identify, exploit, and document security weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
• Utilize a variety of penetration testing tools and techniques (e.g., Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark).
• Develop detailed reports outlining findings, risks, and remediation recommendations.
• Communicate technical findings clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest penetration testing methodologies, tools, and threat landscapes.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop security improvements based on test results.
• Participate in red team exercises to simulate advanced persistent threats.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of testing methodologies and scripts.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 2-4 years of hands-on experience in penetration testing or offensive security.
• Proficiency with common penetration testing tools and frameworks.
• Strong understanding of common vulnerabilities (e.g., OWASP Top 10) and exploitation techniques.
• Knowledge of networking protocols, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and web technologies.
• Ability to write clear, concise, and professional reports.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Scripting skills (e.g., Python, Bash) are a plus.
• Relevant certifications such as OSCP, CEH, GPEN, or LPT are highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive health benefits.
• You will have the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects, continuous learning and development, and a supportive team environment.
• The Richards Bay location provides a unique operational setting.
• Our hybrid work model allows for a balance between focused in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Join a company that values offensive security expertise and provides a platform for you to excel in the field of ethical hacking.