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Cybersecurity Researcher information

See Washington salary details

$34K

$128.1K

$186.3K

How much do cybersecurity researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cybersecurity researcher in Washington is $128,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $174,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cybersecurity Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cybersecurity Researcher, you need a strong understanding of computer science, network security, cryptography, and threat analysis, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications like CISSP or CEH. Familiarity with security tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, and various malware analysis platforms is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for innovating and sharing findings with technical and non-technical stakeholders. These abilities ensure effective identification, analysis, and mitigation of emerging cyber threats in a rapidly evolving landscape.

What are some common challenges Cybersecurity Researchers face when working on threat analysis projects?

Cybersecurity Researchers often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving threat landscapes, the need to analyze vast amounts of complex data, and staying current with the latest attack vectors and tools. Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams is essential, as projects typically require input from software engineers, network specialists, and policy experts. Adapting to shifting priorities and responding quickly to emerging threats are also common aspects of the role, making flexibility and continuous learning crucial for success.

What does a Cybersecurity Researcher do?

A Cybersecurity Researcher investigates threats, vulnerabilities, and emerging risks in digital systems to help protect organizations and individuals from cyberattacks. Their work involves analyzing malware, testing security measures, and developing new techniques to defend against hackers. They may also publish findings, contribute to security tools, and advise on best practices. Cybersecurity Researchers play a crucial role in staying ahead of cybercriminals and advancing the field of information security.

What is the difference between Cybersecurity Researcher vs Security Analyst?

AspectCybersecurity ResearcherSecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, development teams, academic settingsCorporate security teams, incident response centers
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, academiaFinancial institutions, government agencies, corporations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Cybersecurity Researchers focus on discovering vulnerabilities, developing new security methods, and advancing cybersecurity knowledge. Security Analysts monitor networks, respond to threats, and implement security measures. While both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments, Researchers are more involved in innovation and discovery, whereas Analysts focus on protecting and maintaining security in operational settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cybersecurity Researcher jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Cybersecurity Researcher jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Cybersecurity Researcher jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Cybersecurity Researcher jobs in Washington are:
Cybersecurity Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cybersecurity Researcher job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,099 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Senior Principal Cybersecurity Researcher

Senior Principal Cybersecurity Researcher

Two Six Technologies

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Two Six Technologies is a company that builds innovative products to tackle complex challenges. They are seeking a Senior Principal Cybersecurity Researcher to lead high-visibility programs in reverse engineering and vulnerability research, mentor a technical team, and contribute to strategy development for national security solutions.
Responsibilities:
• Direct the planning and execution of high-visibility, mission-critical programs, providing expert technical leadership and innovation in reverse engineering (RE) and vulnerability research (VR).
• Tackle complex problems with no known solutions, demonstrating a high degree of creativity while mentoring a team of technical experts to foster growth and knowledge-sharing.
• Author authoritative technical reports, white papers, and proposals that clearly convey research findings and cybersecurity solutions to both technical and business stakeholders.
• Exert a leadership presence across the company, contributing to strategy development and ensuring customer satisfaction by delivering cutting-edge solutions aligned with national security requirements.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced cybersecurity research concepts typically acquired in a similar technical role.
• Expert-level proficiency in two or more of the following: low-level programming (C/C++, Assembly) and the use of industry-standard disassemblers and decompilers, binary re-hosting frameworks to enable dynamic analysis, and building custom greybox/blackbox fuzzing harnesses.
• Proven experience in vulnerability research (VR), including attack surface triage, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing proof-of-concept exploits to demonstrate security impact.
• Extensive experience in technical mentorship and training, with a history of providing thorough solutions to complex problems and guiding less experienced team members.
• Experience leading complex technical projects in reverse engineering/vulnerability research (RE/VR) or R&D for National Security customers.
• Experience delivering high‑quality technical documentation—such as vulnerability research and findings, industry white papers, and competitive proposals—that distills complex cybersecurity concepts for diverse audiences.
• Experience in a client-facing technical role, demonstrating strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Active Top Secret clearance and willingness to obtain and maintain an SCI clearance.
Preferred:
• Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Familiarity with embedded systems binary reverse engineering (e.g., ARM/MIPS/PPC arch, RTOS, Linux, Baremetal) or cryptographic design principles.
• Experience in trusted computing design and implementation principles.
• Experience with digital signals (e.g., UART, JTAG, SPI, I2C) or network protocol analysis.
• Experience with accelerated RE/VR tools that speed up discovery, analysis, and validation.
• Recognized standing within the external technical community, including experience in publishing articles or speaking at external engagements.
Company:
Two Six Technologies provides cybersecurity and technology solutions for national security customers. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Arlington, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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