Security Research Intern

We are seeking a motivated and talented Security Research Intern to join our team at ProDefense. This is an hourly, part time role designed for candidates who are pursuing offensive security and want hands on experience in real world security testing, vulnerability research, and building tools that improve how we operate. You will work closely with our leadership and a team of penetration testing and security experts, contributing to client work and internal research and development efforts.

Tech stack

• Knowledge of Windows and Linux fundamentals (macOS familiarity is a plus)
• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP) and basic traffic analysis
• Experience or growing comfort with common offensive tools (Burp Suite, Nmap, Metasploit, similar)
• Understanding of web application security and common vulnerabilities (OWASP Top 10)
• Scripting ability (Python preferred, Bash also useful)
• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus
• Comfort using Git, writing clear documentation, and working in a remote team environment

Your role

• Conduct in-depth security research and analysis to identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and emerging threats
• Develop and implement innovative methodologies and tools to proactively identify and mitigate security risks
• Perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments on systems, networks, and applications
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to design and implement effective security measures
• Stay up-to-date with the latest security trends, tools, and technologies
• Present research findings, recommendations, and best practices to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Your team

You will be part of a collaborative team of offensive security professionals at ProDefense. You will work directly with our leadership and alongside experienced penetration testers and security experts who prioritize mentorship, learning, and high quality work. Interns are treated as active contributors and will get direct guidance, feedback, and opportunities to grow quickly.

Requirements

• Must have or be actively pursuing offensive security as a career focus
• Currently enrolled in or recently completed a degree program in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience
• Solid understanding of fundamental security concepts, networking basics, and web technologies
• Basic programming or scripting skills (Python preferred)
• Strong problem solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment

Preferred

• OSCP or VHL preferred (actively pursuing also valued)
• Hands on practice in platforms such as Hack The Box, TryHackMe, or similar
• Evidence of self driven work (writeups, blog posts, GitHub tools, CTF experience, research notes)

Who are you?

You are curious, proactive, and driven to learn offensive security by doing. You enjoy digging into how systems fail, testing assumptions, and turning what you learn into repeatable techniques or tools. You take feedback well, communicate clearly, and are excited to grow as part of a team that values research and craftsmanship.

Benefits

• Hourly paid position, part time schedule
• Fully remote workFlexible hours
• Mentorship and training opportunities
• Access to tooling and resources for learning and research
• Opportunity for continued work or conversion based on performance and business needs