Penetration Tester – Remote (South Africa)

About the role

Cognisys is a fast‑growing cybersecurity firm that delivers penetration testing, GRC consulting and managed security services to clients in over 30 countries. As a Penetration Tester you will join a small, high‑performing team and conduct security assessments across a variety of environments, helping organisations improve their security posture.

Key responsibilities

• Perform penetration testing on networks, web applications, APIs, mobile apps and cloud infrastructure using automated tools and manual exploitation techniques.
• Simulate real‑world attack scenarios, identify vulnerabilities and validate their impact.
• Analyse technical controls, map attack paths and produce detailed technical reports with remediation recommendations.
• Present findings to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders and work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure successful delivery.

Required profile

• Passionate about understanding how systems work and finding security weaknesses.
• Strong curiosity, problem‑solving mindset and ability to stay ahead of emerging threats.
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain complex findings to clients clearly.
• Proactive learner who continuously develops technical knowledge.

Required skills

• Hands‑on penetration testing across networks, web applications, APIs, mobile applications or cloud environments.
• Deep knowledge of offensive security methodologies, tools and techniques.
• Experience with vulnerability scanning tools combined with manual testing and exploitation.
• Ability to assess technical controls, identify attack paths and evaluate risk.
• Production of high‑quality penetration testing reports with practical remediation guidance.

What we offer

• 25 days of annual leave plus South African public holidays and a paid birthday leave day.
• Individual healthcare insurance and access to a mental‑health and wellbeing platform.
• £2,000 annual training budget for professional development.
• Referral bonus of up to £2,000 per successful hire.