Penetration Tester
The Penetration Tester conducts authorised security assessments to identify vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications. This role simulates real-world attacks and provides remediation recommendations.
What Does a Penetration Tester Do?
Deliver comprehensive penetration testing reports, identify critical vulnerabilities before exploitation, and provide actionable remediation guidance to development teams.
Key Responsibilities & Tasks
Security Testing
- Plan and execute penetration tests on systems and applications
- Identify and exploit security vulnerabilities
- Document findings and provide remediation recommendations
Security Research
- Research emerging threats and attack techniques
- Develop custom tools and scripts for security testing
Do You Have the Skills for This Role?
A Penetration Tester needs 5 core competencies. Here's what's required and at what level.
Must-Have Skills (Advanced)
Problem Solving
AdvancedThinking Critically
Creative Thinking
AdvancedThinking Critically
Digital Fluency
AdvancedStaying Relevant
Supporting Skills
Communication
IntermediateInteracting with Others
Learning Agility
IntermediateStaying Relevant
SkillsFuture Skill Levels
3 levelsBasic
Recognise and understand fundamental concepts. Apply skills in routine situations with guidance.
Intermediate
Apply skills in varied situations independently. Analyse problems and adapt approaches as needed.
Advanced
Lead and innovate in complex situations. Evaluate strategies, guide teams, and drive improvements.
Technical Skills & Competencies (TSC) Levels
6 levelsFollow
Carry out routine tasks under close supervision. Follow established procedures and guidelines.
Assist
Perform tasks with some independence. Assist in non-routine situations and apply established techniques.
Apply
Apply skills and knowledge independently in varied situations. Analyse problems and adapt approaches.
Analyse
Analyse complex situations and develop solutions. Guide and mentor junior colleagues.
Strategise
Set strategic direction and drive innovation. Evaluate trade-offs and make high-impact decisions.
Transform
Lead industry transformation. Establish standards, shape policy, and provide expert advisory.
Technical Skills & Competencies
A Penetration Tester requires 8 technical skills at specific proficiency levels.
Cyber Risk Management
Level 4Governance and Compliance
Develop cyber risk assessment techniques and roll-out endorsed measures to address identified cyber security risks, threats and vulnerabilities
Security Assessment and Testing
Level 4Development and Implementation
Design security testing plan, and perform advanced, authorised penetration testing as well as intelligence analysis on cyber attack incidents
Security Strategy
Level 4Strategy Planning and Implementation
Assess security risks, threats and vulnerabilities, and recommend security initiatives to mitigate them
Threat Analysis and Defence
Level 4Operations and User Support
Examine malicious threat behaviour and capabilities, and circumvent anti-analysis mechanisms, recommending techniques to block malicious code and attacks
Audit and Compliance
Level 3Governance and Compliance
Conduct audits, analyse results and implement changes to address identified gaps
Emerging Technology Synthesis
Level 3Business and Project Management
Conduct research and identify opportunities for new and emerging technology to support the business
Stakeholder Management
Level 3Stakeholder and Contract Management
Serve as the organisation's main contact point for stakeholder communications, clarifying responsibilities among stakholders, and engaging them to align expectations
Test Planning
Level 3Development and Implementation
Determine requirements and develop a phase test plan, identifying optimal schedules and means for executing test scripts
European Skills Framework
ESCOSkills and knowledge areas required for this occupation based on European classification.
Essential
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