Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Hybrid role

Certification support

Job summary

Placements24 invites a skilled Penetration Tester to join a prominent cybersecurity consultancy in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will simulate cyberattacks against client systems to identify vulnerabilities, document findings with evidence, and provide actionable remediation recommendations to strengthen defenses.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of professional experience, a degree in CS or Cybersecurity, and certifications such as OSCP/CEH.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, IT, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3 years in penetration testing or ethical hacking.
• Proven experience in network, web app, and/or mobile app pentesting.
• Proficiency with Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark, Kali Linux.
• Strong knowledge of OWASP Top 10 and SANS Top 25 vulnerability patterns.
• Scripting in Python or Bash for automation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive penetration tests on client networks, web apps, mobile apps, APIs and cloud.
• Identify vulnerabilities and misconfigurations; document findings with evidence and risk assessments.
• Provide clear remediation recommendations to clients.
• Draft detailed technical reports and present findings to stakeholders.
• Stay updated on latest pentesting techniques, tools and trends.
• Collaborate with clients to define scope and testing requirements.
• Help refine testing methodologies and procedures.
• Participate in red team exercises and vulnerability assessments.
• Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in all engagements.

Skills

Penetration testing

Ethical hacking

Network security

Vulnerability testing

Python scripting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Cybersecurity

OSCP Certification

CEH Certification

CISSP Certification

Tools

Metasploit

Burp Suite

Nmap

Wireshark

Kali Linux

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent cybersecurity consultancy firm with a growing presence in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , is seeking a skilled and certified Penetration Tester to join their elite offensive security team. This role involves simulating cyberattacks against client systems to identify vulnerabilities and provide actionable recommendations for strengthening their security defenses. You will conduct thorough assessments of networks, applications, and infrastructure, employing a wide range of ethical hacking techniques. The ideal candidate is highly curious, possesses excellent problem-solving skills, and has a passion for uncovering security weaknesses before malicious actors can exploit them. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity for security enthusiasts looking to work on diverse projects and make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive penetration tests on client networks, web applications, mobile applications, APIs, and cloud environments.
• Identify security vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and potential exploits using various manual and automated testing tools.
• Document findings meticulously, including detailed technical descriptions, evidence, and risk assessments.
• Provide clear, concise, and actionable remediation recommendations to clients.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest penetration testing techniques, tools, and industry trends.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their security requirements and scope testing activities effectively.
• Assist in developing and refining penetration testing methodologies and procedures.
• Participate in red teaming exercises and vulnerability assessments.
• Present test findings and recommendations to clients in a professional manner.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and ethical standards throughout all engagements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, IT, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in penetration testing or ethical hacking.
• Proven experience in conducting network, web application, and/or mobile application penetration tests.
• Proficiency with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark, and Kali Linux.
• Strong understanding of common vulnerabilities (e.g., OWASP Top 10, SANS Top 25) and attack vectors.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash) for tool automation and exploitation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce detailed technical reports.
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Relevant certifications such as OSCP, CEH, PenTest+, or CISSP are highly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical benefits, and opportunities for professional development and certification.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility, allowing you to balance office-based collaboration with remote work.
• You will work with a talented team of security experts, tackle challenging and diverse projects, and continuously enhance your skills using state-of-the-art tools.
• Benefits include performance bonuses, generous paid time off, and a supportive work environment focused on ethical security practices and client success.