Penetration Tester – Instil
Instil provides human‑focused security and penetration testing services for web applications, cloud infrastructure and mobile applications.
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
The Role
We are looking for a Penetration Tester to join our dynamic team based in Belfast.
As a Pen Tester, you will be part of the delivery team, conducting penetration tests and vulnerability assessments across a range of technologies and a wide range of customers including software, fintech, manufacturing, engineering, legal, and public sector.
Responsibilities – Day to Day
- Probe & exploit security vulnerabilities in client infrastructure/cloud, web applications and mobile applications.
- Write detailed reports outlining vulnerabilities and providing actionable recommendations.
- Collaborate with clients during kick‑off and discovery sessions, providing expert advice.
- Stay current with the latest security threats, vulnerabilities, and trends.
- Research offensive security techniques to assess and validate infrastructure and technologies, including cloud‑based systems.
- Automate repetitive tasks by developing scripts to streamline testing processes.
- Mentor junior penetration testers and contribute to their professional development.
- Play a key role in enhancing existing tools, methodologies, and reports.
- Occasionally support pre‑sales efforts by acting as a penetration testing subject‑matter expert.
- Communicate security vulnerabilities to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
Requirements – Need to Have
- At least 1–2 years of experience in penetration testing.
- Demonstrable skills in the penetration testing/ethical hacking field.
- In‑depth knowledge of various web technologies, operating systems, particularly Linux, Windows, and Active Directory.
- Knowledge of scripting languages e.g. Python, Shell Scripting.
- Strong experience with web application and network pen testing methodologies.
- Proficiency in using penetration testing tools such as BurpSuite Pro, Nmap, and Nessus.
- Familiarity with Kali Linux and the associated penetration testing tool suite.
- Experience in penetration testing simulations like Hack the Box or Capture the Flag.
- Excellent communication and technical report writing skills.
- Eligibility to live and work in the UK (no visa sponsorship).
Nice to Have
- Relevant security certifications (e.g. OSCP, CREST, Cyber Scheme).
- UK SC clearance.
Benefits
- Competitive Salary & Annual Bonus
- Hybrid Working
- Flexible & Summer Working Hours
- 35 Days Holiday
- Private Pension (8% Employer, 5% Employee)
- Private Healthcare
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Equality & Diversity
Instil is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
We also strive to make our recruitment process fair and accessible to all. If you require any adjustments or accommodations at any stage, let us know. We’re happy to have a confidential conversation to ensure the process meets your needs, because we know that every candidate’s journey is different.