Penetration Tester (PT)

Overview

Responsibilities

• Conduct penetration tests on networks, web applications, APIs, mobile apps, and hardware
• Use both automated tools and manual techniques to identify security vulnerabilities
• Attempt exploitation of vulnerabilities to demonstrate potential impact
• Develop scripts or tools to aid in testing and exploitation
• Prepare detailed reports outlining findings, risk levels, and remediation steps
• Collaborate with security teams to help prioritize and implement fixes
• Stay current on emerging threats, exploits, and hacking techniques
• Conduct follow-up tests to verify remediation efforts were successful

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Hard skills
• Proficiency with penetration testing tools (Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark, etc.)
• Strong understanding of networking, operating systems, and security protocols
• Ability to write and analyze code/scripts in Python, PowerShell, Bash, or similar
• Familiarity with cloud platforms and testing in virtualized environments
• Soft skills
• Analytical and problem-solving mindset with a “hacker’s perspective”
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in high-pressure environments
• Detail-oriented approach with strong documentation practices

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information security, or a related field typically required

Certifications

• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) – highly regarded
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – widely recognized
• CompTIA PenTest+ – foundational penetration testing credential

Preferred Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on penetration testing experience
• Experience performing red team assessments or advanced adversarial simulations
• Background in secure software development or reverse engineering
• Familiarity with compliance frameworks such as PCI DSS, SAMA, and NCA
• IndustryTelecommunications