I had a quick look at your hiring process[1] (thank you for sharing this, btw).

I have a few questions:

* Are junior hires expected to be able to complete / pass all three challenges (pentesting, fuzzer, custom protocol analysis)?

* If not - how does the hiring / challenge process differ for junior hires?

* Assume good problem solving skills, effective (written and verbal) communication skills and an ability to program. What else do you like to see in a junior hire?

Ultimately, I'm trying to suss out the breadth / depth of self-instruction I need to undertake to pass interviews and perform successfully on the job as a new junior staff member at Matasano, or another selective / reputable company like it. Any other advice you could offer a developer making a transition to appsec would be much appreciated! :)

Cheers!

[1] - http://matasano.com/careers/

Edit - Found this: http://krebsonsecurity.com/2012/06/how-to-break-into-securit... - pretty comprehensive advice. Still curious about the interviews and what you guys look for though!