
Lead Penetration Tester, CTL App
Instil
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Remote
Location: United Kingdom
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Job Level
About the role
- Lead and execute web application and API penetration tests as a CHECK Team Leader (App).
- Manage end‑to‑end engagements: from scoping and kick‑off sessions through to delivery and client debriefs.
- Perform in‑depth manual testing of modern web applications, authentication flows, APIs, and business logic.
- Produce clear, detailed, and actionable reports outlining vulnerabilities and tailored remediation guidance.
- Stay ahead of emerging application‑level threats and integrate new testing techniques into our methodology.
- Automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency through scripting and tooling enhancements.
- Mentor and coach junior testers, particularly around web application testing techniques and report quality.
- Enhance application‑focused tools and methodologies, keeping our services current and effective.
- Support pre‑sales efforts as a subject‑matter expert in web application security.
- Communicate findings effectively to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
- Contribute to thought leadership through blogs, white papers, or speaking engagements.
Requirements
- CHECK Team Lead (CTL) status – Web Applications.
- Current UK SC Clearance.
- Minimum 5 years’ penetration testing experience, with a strong focus on web applications and APIs.
- Proven experience leading and signing off CHECK web application engagements.
- Deep expertise in web application, API, and authentication testing methodologies.
- Solid understanding of modern application architectures (cloud-hosted apps, microservices, REST APIs).
- Working knowledge of cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP) as they relate to application security.
- Proficiency with tools such as Burp Suite Pro, along with supporting tooling (e.g. Nmap, Kali).
- Strong scripting skills (Python, Shell, etc.).
- Excellent communication and technical report‑writing skills.
Benefits
- A discretionary annual performance bonus that rewards your impact and contribution to our success.
- Flexible working arrangements and summer hours, because life isn’t 9 to 5, and balance matters.
- A highly competitive pension scheme with generous employer contributions, private healthcare, and life assurance for peace of mind.
- Employee Assistance Programme, mental health support, cycle-to-work scheme, and regular social events to keep our culture vibrant.
- 35 days holiday, enhanced maternity pay, and family-first policies so you can focus on what matters most.
- From courses to certifications, we’ll invest in your development so you can keep growing and shaping what’s next.
- Opportunities to volunteer, give back, and be part of initiatives that make Instil a truly inclusive and connected workplace.
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
penetration testingweb application testingAPI testingauthentication testingscriptingreport writingcloud application architecturemicroservicesREST APIsCHECK Team Lead
Soft Skills
leadershipmentoringcommunicationclient engagementthought leadership
Certifications
CHECK Team Lead (CTL)UK SC Clearance