Penetration Tester

Purpose of the role

To identify potential vulnerabilities within the banks IT systems using penetration testing tools and techniques to ensure the security of computer systems, applications, servers, and networks.

Development and execution of assessments, audits, and threat models to identify vulnerabilities within the banks systems, applications and servers using penetration tools and techniques, and communicate key findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

Collaboration with stakeholders and IT teams to identify emerging cyber‑attack techniques, tools and technologies and to support the development of penetration testing methodologies.

Development and maintenance of comprehensive documents and reports for senior stakeholders on penetration test findings, and remediation guidance.

Collaboration with stakeholders to understand their security requirements and controls in business processes, application/services, to enhance overall security posture and assurance.

Identification of emerging vulnerabilities, exploit codes and cyber‑attacks to develop testing methodologies and assurance activities.

To advise and influence decision making, contribute to policy development and take responsibility for operational effectiveness; collaborate closely with other functions and business divisions; lead a team performing complex tasks using well‑developed professional knowledge and skills; set objectives and coach employees; demonstrate clear leadership behaviours and support mitigation of risk.

• Holding a CREST qualification (or equivalent), or working towards one.
• Delivering end‑to‑end penetration testing across web, network, and mobile environments.
• Engaging with stakeholders, contributing to Statements of Work (SoW), and producing clear, actionable security reports.

• Participation in the penetration testing or wider security community (for example bug hunting, Hack The Box, CTFs, or hackathons).
• Exposure to client or thick application testing and experience working to agreed project timelines.
• An interest in emerging areas such as AI security testing, and familiarity with scripting or programming (no specific languages required).

This role will be based in Knutsford or Manchester.