Lead Penetration Tester
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
- Lead and execute penetration tests across infrastructure, cloud, web, and mobile applications.
- Manage end-to-end engagements: from scoping and kick-off sessions to delivery and client debriefs.
- Produce detailed, actionable reports outlining vulnerabilities and tailored remediation steps.
- Stay ahead of emerging threats by researching new offensive techniques and integrating them into our methodology.
- Automate repetitive tasks and streamline testing processes through scripting.
- Mentor and coach junior testers, supporting their technical growth and career development.
- Enhance tools and methodologies, ensuring our services remain cutting-edge.
- Support pre-sales efforts as a subject-matter expert in penetration testing.
- Communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Contribute to thought leadership through blogs, white papers, or speaking engagements., At Instil, we believe great work starts with happy, motivated people. That's why we've built a benefits package that supports your wellbeing, growth, and life outside of work, because when you thrive, so do we.
- Recognition That Matters: A discretionary annual performance bonus that rewards your impact and contribution to our success.
- Flexibility Built In: Flexible working arrangements and summer hours, because life isn't 9 to 5, and balance matters.
- Financial Security: A highly competitive pension scheme with generous employer contributions, private healthcare, and life assurance for peace of mind.
- Health & Wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme, mental health support, cycle-to-work scheme, and regular social events to keep our culture vibrant.
- Time to Recharge: 35 days holiday, enhanced maternity pay, and family-first policies so you can focus on what matters most.
- Learning Never Stops: From courses to certifications, we'll invest in your development so you can keep growing and shaping what's next.
- Community & Culture: Opportunities to volunteer, give back, and be part of initiatives that make Instil a truly inclusive and connected workplace.
Requirements
Do you have experience in Windows?, We're looking for a highly skilled Lead Penetration Tester with CHECK Team Lead (CTL) status to join our dynamic security team. This is a senior, hands-on role where you'll lead and deliver complex penetration testing engagements across infrastructure, cloud, web, and mobile applications for a diverse range of clients, including software, fintech, manufacturing, engineering, legal, and public sector organisations.
You'll play a pivotal role in shaping our offensive security services, coordinating end-to-end testing, mentoring junior testers, and contributing to the evolution of our methodologies. If you thrive on tackling challenging security problems, enjoy working in a collaborative environment, and want to keep pushing your technical boundaries, we'd love to hear from you., * CHECK Team Lead (CTL) status - Infrastructure or Web Applications
- Current UK SC Clearance.
- Minimum 5 years' penetration testing experience, with a proven track record of complex engagements.
- Proven experience in cloud security reviews (AWS, Azure, GCP).
- Deep expertise in web, mobile, and network penetration testing methodologies.
- Advanced knowledge of operating systems (Linux, Windows, Active Directory).
- Familiarity with cloud environments and ability to perform cloud security reviews.
- Proficiency with tools such as BurpSuite Pro, Nmap, Nessus, Metasploit, and Kali Linux.
- Strong scripting skills (Python, Shell, etc.).
- Excellent communication and technical report writing skills.
Nice-to-Have
- Additional certifications: OSCP, CSTL/CCT, Cyber Scheme, CREST.
- UK Cyber Security Council Chartership (Principal or above).
- Experience with Hack The Box or Capture the Flag simulations.
- Exposure to advanced testing techniques and red team engagements.