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Red Team Engineer Jobs

Ethical hackers who simulate cyber attacks to identify and fix vulnerabilities. A critical role in proactive security, often working in high-stakes environments.

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Red Team Engineers are the frontline of proactive cyber defence. They simulate real-world cyber attacks to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in an organisation's systems, networks, and processes. These ethical hackers work closely with Blue Teams (defence teams) to ensure that security measures are robust and effective. Red Team Engineers are often found in security-focused organisations, consultancies, and government agencies, where their skills are crucial for maintaining the integrity of critical infrastructure.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Red Team Engineer

A typical week for a Red Team Engineer is a mix of planning, execution, and reporting. They spend time researching new attack techniques, conducting simulated attacks, and documenting their findings.

  1. 01
    Conduct reconnaissance to gather information on target systems.
  2. 02
    Develop and test custom attack scripts and tools.
  3. 03
    Execute simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities.
  4. 04
    Collaborate with Blue Teams to validate findings and suggest fixes.
  5. 05
    Document and report on the results of red team exercises.
  6. 06
    Stay updated on the latest threat intelligence and security trends.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 3 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Penetration Testing
100%
Phishing
100%
Social Engineering
100%
Active Directory
67%
Red Teaming
67%
EDR Evasion
67%
Offensive Security
33%
Azure
33%
M365
33%
Threat Intelligence
33%
C2 Frameworks
33%
Evasion Techniques
33%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for red team engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Red Team Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assists in planning and executing basic red team exercises. Focuses on learning and understanding the fundamentals of ethical hacking.

  2. Level 2

    Red Team Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Leads the execution of red team exercises, develops custom attack tools, and provides detailed reports on findings.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Red Team Engineer

    5–8 yrs

    Manages complex red team operations, mentors junior team members, and advises on strategic security initiatives.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Red Team Engineer

    8+ yrs

    Oversees the entire red team, develops advanced attack methodologies, and influences organisational security policies.

Pathway

How to become a Red Team Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Learn the Basics

    Start with foundational knowledge in cybersecurity, ethical hacking, and network protocols. Gain hands-on experience through certifications and practical exercises.

  2. 2

    Gain Practical Experience

    Work in roles that involve security testing, such as penetration testing or vulnerability assessment. Build a portfolio of successful projects and case studies.

  3. 3

    Specialise in Red Teaming

    Focus on red team-specific skills, such as advanced attack techniques, social engineering, and post-exploitation analysis. Join red team exercises and simulations.

  4. 4

    Lead Red Team Operations

    Take on leadership roles in red team exercises, manage projects, and mentor junior team members. Develop custom tools and methodologies.

  5. 5

    Influence Security Strategy

    Advise on organisational security policies and strategies. Contribute to the development of industry standards and best practices.

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FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in cybersecurity or a related field is beneficial, but practical experience and relevant certifications like OSCP or CEH are highly valued.

  • Participate in bug bounty programs, capture the flag (CTF) competitions, and red team exercises. Document your findings and methodologies in a professional portfolio.

  • Key skills include a deep understanding of network protocols, scripting and programming, social engineering, and the ability to think creatively to identify and exploit vulnerabilities.

  • Salaries for Red Team Engineers can vary widely based on experience and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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