IT

Penetration Tester

Looking to hire your next Penetration Tester? Here’s a full job description template to use as a guide.

About Vintti

At Vintti, we understand the importance of real-time collaboration in today's fast-paced business environment. Our staffing solutions focus on connecting US companies with Latin American talent operating in compatible time zones. This strategic approach ensures that businesses can engage with their team members during regular office hours, facilitating immediate communication, swift problem-solving, and seamless project coordination.

Description

A Penetration Tester, also known as an ethical hacker, is a cybersecurity professional tasked with identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in an organization's systems, networks, and applications to help enhance security measures. By simulating real-world cyber-attacks, they reveal potential weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. This role involves using a variety of tools and methodologies to conduct thorough security assessments, providing detailed reports, and collaborating with IT teams to implement and verify fixes, ensuring a robust defense against cyber threats.

Requirements

- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, or related roles.
- Certifications such as OSCP, CEH, CISSP, or equivalent recognized credentials.
- Proficiency with security tools like Nmap, Nessus, Burp Suite, Metasploit, etc.
- Solid understanding of common vulnerabilities and attack vectors (e.g., OWASP Top Ten).
- Strong scripting skills (e.g., Python, Bash, PowerShell) for developing custom exploits.
- Thorough knowledge of network protocols, web application architectures, and security mechanisms.
- Experience conducting red team/blue team exercises and threat modeling.
- Familiarity with social engineering tactics and conducting phishing campaigns.
- Ability to analyze and interpret test results, creating detailed and actionable reports.
- Experience collaborating with IT and security teams to remediate vulnerabilities.
- Up-to-date with the latest security trends, vulnerabilities, and regulatory requirements.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to educate and train staff on security practices and awareness.
- Capacity to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- High level of integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
- Willingness to continuously learn and improve cybersecurity skills.

Responsabilities

- Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests on various information systems.
- Utilize security tools like Nmap, Nessus, Burp Suite, Metasploit, etc., to identify vulnerabilities.
- Develop and deploy custom scripts and exploits to simulate cyber-attacks.
- Analyze testing results and compile findings into detailed security assessment reports.
- Work with IT and security teams to address and remediate discovered vulnerabilities.
- Perform risk assessments to evaluate potential impacts of identified security flaws.
- Stay abreast of the latest security trends, vulnerabilities, and hacking techniques.
- Maintain documentation for all security test plans, results, and related procedures.
- Participate in threat modeling to identify security risks and mitigation strategies.
- Educate staff on security best practices through training sessions and advisories.
- Carry out social engineering tests, including phishing campaigns, to assess organizational response.
- Monitor for security breaches and promptly report incidents to leadership.
- Assist in the creation and maintenance of security controls and policies.
- Research and suggest cybersecurity tools and best practices to enhance security posture.
- Attend and contribute to regular security meetings and status updates.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Penetration Tester role possesses a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field, accompanied by 3-5 years of hands-on experience in penetration testing and vulnerability assessments. Holding certifications such as OSCP, CEH, or CISSP, they demonstrate proficiency with industry-standard security tools like Nmap, Nessus, Burp Suite, and Metasploit. Their solid understanding of common attack vectors, network protocols, and web application architectures is complemented by strong scripting skills in Python, Bash, or PowerShell. They excel in conducting red team/blue team exercises and threat modeling, with a knack for detecting and exploiting system vulnerabilities. The ideal candidate displays a proactive, analytical mindset with exceptional problem-solving abilities and attention to detail. Their communication skills—both written and verbal—are top-notch, enabling them to create detailed and actionable reports and comfortably educate colleagues on security best practices. They are adept at handling high-pressure situations, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and demonstrate a quick adaptability to emerging tools and technologies. High integrity, ethical standards, and a strong sense of confidentiality are paramount, as is their dedication to continuous professional development and staying current with the latest security trends. Overall, their ability to think like an attacker, coupled with their resilient and creative approach to developing unique solutions, sets them apart as a distinguished candidate in the field of cybersecurity.

On a typical day, you will...

- Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests on network systems, web applications, and other information systems.
- Identify security vulnerabilities through tools such as Nmap, Nessus, Burp Suite, Metasploit, and others.
- Develop and execute custom scripts and exploits to simulate cyber-attacks.
- Analyze the results of testing, compiling findings into comprehensive and actionable security assessment reports.
- Collaborate with IT and security teams to remediate identified vulnerabilities.
- Perform risk assessments to determine the potential impact of identified vulnerabilities.
- Stay updated with the latest security trends, vulnerabilities, hacking techniques, and laws.
- Develop and maintain documentation for all security test plans, results, and related procedures.
- Participate in threat modeling activities to identify security risks and counter measures.
- Educate staff on IT security practices through training sessions and security advisories.
- Conduct social engineering tests, such as phishing campaigns, to evaluate organizational response and preparedness.
- Monitor for security breaches and promptly report incidents to leadership.
- Assist in the establishment and maintenance of security controls and policies.
- Research and recommend cybersecurity tools and practices for improving security posture.
- Attend and contribute to regular security meetings and status updates.

What we are looking for

- Analytical mindset with keen attention to detail
- Proactive and self-motivated
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- High integrity and ethical standards
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Quick adaptability to new tools and technologies
- Persistent and determined nature
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Adept at continuous learning and professional development
- Creative thinking for developing unique solutions
- Thorough understanding of security principles and best practices
- Strong technical aptitude and curiosity
- Ability to think like an attacker
- Robust critical thinking skills
- Resilient and calm under challenging situations
- High level of confidentiality in handling sensitive information

What you can expect (benefits)

- Competitive salary range commensurate with experience and certifications
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays
- Flexible working hours and remote work options
- Professional development opportunities, including sponsored certifications and training programs
- Access to cutting-edge cybersecurity tools and technologies
- Employee wellness programs and resources
- Paid parental leave and family support benefits
- Performance bonuses and incentive programs
- Reimbursement for work-related expenses
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment
- Opportunities for internal career advancement and promotions
- Company-sponsored tech conferences and workshops
- Employee assistance program (EAP) for mental health support and counseling
- Access to exclusive industry events and networking opportunities
- Gym membership discounts or on-site fitness facilities
- Recognition programs and awards for exceptional performance
- Company-provided equipment and resources for optimal work setup
- Regular team-building activities and social events

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