Bug Bounty Security Researcher

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Bug Bounty Security Researcher based in South Africa.

This is an exciting security research opportunity for a skilled professional passionate about discovering vulnerabilities and strengthening real-world application security.

You will investigate software applications, systems, and networks to uncover security weaknesses before they can be exploited maliciously.

The role combines offensive security research, creative attack development, vulnerability exploitation, and detailed technical reporting.

You will work across web, mobile, and network security environments while participating in private and public bug bounty programs.

Your findings will directly contribute to improving security products and services and protecting customers against emerging threats.

The position offers flexibility to work independently, explore challenging targets, and be rewarded for high-impact vulnerabilities.

This opportunity is ideal for a curious and analytical security researcher who enjoys continuous learning and responsible vulnerability disclosure.

Accountabilities

• Conduct thorough security research across target applications, systems, and networks to identify vulnerabilities and potential attack paths.
• Develop and execute customized attack vectors using techniques such as fuzzing, SQL injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF), and Remote Code Execution.
• Safely validate and exploit discovered vulnerabilities while following responsible testing and disclosure practices.
• Analyze application and infrastructure behavior to identify weaknesses that may not be apparent through standard automated testing.
• Produce clear and comprehensive vulnerability reports containing technical descriptions, proof-of-concept code or evidence, severity information, and reproducible steps.
• Participate in ongoing bug bounty programs and private security research engagements.
• Share security findings and insights that can help improve products, services, and overall vulnerability management practices.
• Continuously research new attack techniques, tools, vulnerabilities, and security trends to improve testing effectiveness.
• Contribute to a collaborative security environment focused on identifying and responsibly addressing real-world threats.

Requirements

• At least 1 year of professional or demonstrable experience in security research, penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of computer systems, networks, web applications, and software security.
• Practical knowledge of offensive security methodologies and vulnerability discovery techniques.
• Experience with programming or scripting languages such as Python, C++, JavaScript, and HTML.
• Familiarity with security tools including Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Nmap, and Kali Linux.
• Experience participating in bug bounty programs and applying responsible disclosure practices.
• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent technical communication and documentation skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex vulnerabilities.
• Relevant application security certifications such as Burp Suite Certified Practitioner (BSCP), Offensive Security Web Expert (OSWE), GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT), or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) are highly valued.
• 3+ years of experience in security research, penetration testing, or vulnerability assessment is a strong advantage.
• A recognized public bug bounty profile with awarded vulnerability reports is preferred.
• Recognized contributions to Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) are a plus.
• Strong sense of responsibility and commitment to ethical security research.

Benefits

• Flexible freelance engagement allowing you to work according to your own schedule.
• Bounty awards for valid and accepted vulnerability reports.
• Weekly payments for valid reports following successful triage.
• Recognition for high-quality submissions through leaderboards both on and outside the platform.
• Opportunities to perform real-world penetration testing across web application, mobile, and network security.
• Access to private and exclusive bug bounty programs.
• Opportunity to work on diverse targets and investigate high-impact security vulnerabilities.
• Collaborative, empathy-led security culture focused on improving internet security.
• Continuous exposure to modern offensive security techniques, tools, and emerging vulnerabilities.