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Background Researcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Interrupt Labs

iOS Vulnerability Researcher

Arlington, VA · Remote

$59.50 - $82/hr

We are looking for experienced and passionate people who have a background in vulnerability research, offensive security and reverse engineering on Apple platforms. The role: * You'll join our team ...

Cmu

Senior Network Security Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

As a senior network security researcher on the Network Situational Awareness team, you will ... Requirements: (education/travel/background ONLY) * Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or a ...

NewGen

Cyber Technology Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Cyber Technology Researcher will be responsible for supporting the Threat Hunting workflows ... Background in cybersecurity tool integration and automation * Strong project coordination and ...

Cmu

Senior Cybersecurity Operations Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $148K/yr

You will be subject to a background investigation and must be able to obtainandmaintainanactive ... Experience conducting research and publishing academic or technical papers. * Knowledge of ...

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Background Researcher information

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How much do background researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for background researcher in Virginia is $112,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a background researcher do?

A Background Researcher is responsible for gathering, verifying, and analyzing information about individuals, organizations, or topics to support decision-making, due diligence, or investigative processes. Their work often involves checking public records, media reports, social media, and other databases to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided. Background Researchers are commonly employed in industries such as journalism, law, corporate hiring, and security services, where accurate background information is crucial. They must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to ethical research practices.

What is the difference between Background Researcher vs Data Analyst?

AspectBackground ResearcherData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences, research methods, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in statistics, mathematics, or data science
Work EnvironmentResearch firms, government agencies, academic institutionsCorporate, finance, healthcare, or tech industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for gathering background info, verifying facts, and supporting investigationsUsed for interpreting data, creating reports, and informing business decisions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, job requirements, and career pathsComparing data analysis skills, tools, and job functions

While both roles involve working with information, a Background Researcher focuses on collecting and verifying background information for investigations or research projects. In contrast, a Data Analyst interprets data sets to generate insights and support decision-making. Both roles require analytical skills and research abilities but serve different purposes within organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background researcher?

To thrive as a Background Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in research or investigative fields, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with online databases, public records systems, and research management tools is typically required. Excellent written communication, discretion, and persistence help you stand out in gathering and reporting sensitive information. These skills ensure thorough, accurate, and ethical background checks, which are crucial for informed decision-making in hiring, security, or due diligence processes.

How does a background researcher typically collaborate with other departments during the research process?

Background Researchers frequently work closely with departments such as editorial, legal, and production. They gather, verify, and organize information based on requests from these teams to ensure accuracy and compliance in content or reporting. Regular communication and clear documentation are crucial, as researchers must provide timely updates and adapt to shifting project priorities. This collaborative dynamic helps maintain high standards of credibility and efficiency in the final output.

What are popular job titles related to Background Researcher jobs in Virginia?

For Background Researcher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Researcher jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Researcher jobs in Virginia are:

Background Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Researcher job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,132 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

iOS Vulnerability Researcher

Interrupt Labs

Arlington, VA • Remote

$59.50 - $82/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

We are looking for experienced and passionate people who have a background in vulnerability research, offensive security and reverse engineering on Apple platforms.

The role:

  • You'll join our team looking to identify vulnerabilities in Apple platforms using both static and dynamic analysis techniques.

  • You'll develop Proof-of-Concepts for vulnerabilities identified.

  • You'll use common VR toolsets such as fuzzers, LLMs and reverse engineering tools; as well as have access to custom tooling built in-house (along with developing your own!).

  • You'll need to present your findings in a useful and accessible way to others.

  • You'll have access to internal and external training and conferences to refine and hone your skillsets.

The ideal candidate:

  • Developed tools and proof of concepts in a modern programming language such as Python and Rust.

  • Skills in debugging and hacking around with low level or other relevant languages such as C, Swift, C++, Objective C, etc.

  • Ability to reverse engineer ARM64 binaries using common toolsets such as IDA, Binary Ninja and Frida.

  • Interest and a passion in learning new things, taking them apart, and getting stuck into new problems and challenges.

Desirable technical experience:

  • Research on the low-level internals of Apple platforms, including topics such as runtime internals, platform security features and exploit mitigations.

  • Reverse engineering and vulnerability research on userland components on Apple platforms including XPC protocols, private frameworks and userland system daemons.

  • iOS application reverse engineering and bug hunting, looking for weaknesses, logic bugs and memory corruption issues.

  • Kernel or system level software internals and vulnerability research, for example XNU code review or IOKit reverse engineering and exploitation.

Salary:

Packages are competitive and differ according to researcher experience. Full details can be discussed upon an invitation to interview.

Perks and benefits:

  • 25 days paid vacation + federal holidays

  • Annual bonus based on company targets

  • Matched 401k scheme up to 4%

  • Healthcare, dental and vision cover

  • Training and conference budgets

  • Employee assistance program

  • Company socials throughout the year

The location:
This is a remote role so the successful candidate can be based anywhere in the USA, or indeed the world!


Interrupt Labs is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

We aim to respond to all candidates via email within a week of their application. Please note that emails may go to your spam or junk folder.