Posted 11 days ago
Junior Penetration Tester
Sulaymaniyah - iQ HQ
Reports to (title of direct report)
Penetration Testing Supervisor
Division/Department
Cyber Security
Job role
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Penetration Tester to join our cybersecurity team. This role supports the development of internal cybersecurity capabilities by assisting in ethical hacking activities, vulnerability assessments, and security testing while continuously developing technical and professional skills. The position is ideal for early-career professionals who are eager to grow within offensive security and contribute to strengthening the organization’s security posture.
Detailed description of MAIN tasks and KEY responsibilities
Learning & Development
- Participate in and support technical training initiatives related to ethical hacking, penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and emerging security threats.
- Continuously improve technical skills by learning industry-standard penetration testing tools, methodologies, and frameworks.
- Identify personal skill gaps and actively work toward closing them under senior team guidance.
Penetration Testing & Security Assessment
- Assist in conducting penetration tests, vulnerability scans, and security assessments under supervision.
- Follow established penetration testing methodologies and best practices.
- Support the analysis, validation, and documentation of identified vulnerabilities.
Reporting & Documentation
- Contribute to the preparation of clear, accurate, and professional penetration testing reports.
- Document findings, risk levels, and remediation recommendations in accordance with team standards.
Performance & Professional Growth
- Participate in regular performance reviews to assess technical progress, reporting quality, and adherence to security testing standards.
- Actively seek feedback and coaching to improve technical and professional competencies.
Team Collaboration & Engagement
- Collaborate with cybersecurity team members to share knowledge and best practices.
- Participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges, labs, and other skill-building activities.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and learning-oriented team environment.
Compliance & Ethics
- Adhere strictly to ethical hacking standards, legal frameworks, and organizational security policies.
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive systems and data.
Education and Work Experience (Preferred background)
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field (fresh graduates are welcome)
- 1 year of relevant experience is preferred
- Internship, academic projects, or hands-on lab experience in ethical hacking, penetration testing, or cybersecurity is a plus
Skills/Qualifications
- Basic understanding of networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity fundamentals
- Familiarity with penetration testing concepts, tools, or labs (academic or self-study is acceptable)
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to learn, improve, and grow in offensive security
- Good written communication skills for technical reporting
Job Requirements
- Assist in performing day-to-day penetration testing and vulnerability assessments under supervision
- Apply ethical hacking methodologies and follow organizational security policies
- Document findings, risk assessments, and remediation recommendations accurately
- Monitor security alerts, analyze test results, and escalate issues as needed
- Collaborate effectively with cybersecurity team members and follow standard operating procedures