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Entry Level Malware Analyst Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Investigating and remediating virus/malware incursions * Applying technical controls to endpoint ... Bachelor's Degree Preferred License or Certificate: * Entry-level cybersecurity certification (CC ...

New

Entry Level Malware Analyst information

See Madison, WI salary details

$14

$38

$69

How much do entry level malware analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level malware analyst in Madison, WI is $38.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.15 and $48.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level malware analyst do?

An entry level malware analyst is responsible for identifying, analyzing, and helping to mitigate malicious software threats. They use specialized tools to examine suspicious files, document their findings, and assist in responding to cybersecurity incidents. Analysts also create reports and may help update antivirus signatures or recommend security improvements. This role often involves working with more experienced analysts to learn advanced techniques and stay updated on emerging threats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level malware analyst?

To thrive as an Entry Level Malware Analyst, you need a strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, operating systems, networking, and cybersecurity concepts, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or GIAC GREM. Familiarity with malware analysis tools such as IDA Pro, Wireshark, and sandbox environments, as well as scripting languages like Python, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you investigate threats and present findings clearly. These skills are essential for accurately identifying, analyzing, and mitigating malware threats in dynamic cybersecurity environments.

What are the most common challenges faced by entry level malware analysts during their first year on the job?

Entry level malware analysts often face challenges such as quickly adapting to rapidly evolving malware techniques, developing proficiency with specialized analysis tools, and learning to interpret complex code or obfuscated files. Working in a collaborative environment, they may also need to communicate technical findings to colleagues with varying levels of cybersecurity expertise. Overcoming the steep learning curve and building confidence through hands-on analysis and mentorship are essential steps in their professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Malware Analyst vs Security Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Malware AnalystSecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Certified Malware Analyst (CMA)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles)
Work EnvironmentAnalyzing malware samples, reverse engineering, threat detectionMonitoring security systems, incident response, risk assessment
Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, government agencies, IT departmentsCorporate IT, government, financial institutions

Entry Level Malware Analysts focus on identifying and analyzing malicious software, often working in labs or threat research teams. Security Analysts have a broader role in monitoring overall security posture, incident response, and implementing security measures. While both roles require cybersecurity knowledge and certifications, Malware Analysts specialize in malware behavior, whereas Security Analysts handle a wider range of security threats.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Malware Analyst jobs in Madison, WI?

For Entry Level Malware Analyst jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Malware Analyst jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Malware Analyst jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Entry Level Malware Analyst jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Entry Level Malware Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Malware Analyst job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,963 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Madison, WI

$95K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:Academic StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Information Security Analyst IIJob Summary:

Interested in the growing field of Cybersecurity? Become a cybersecurity analyst in the UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS)! This new position will work closely with the CALS Information Security Officer and other IT professionals to support cybersecurity policies and best practices across the college.

The cybersecurity analyst will collaborate with CALS IT managers and staff to monitor and analyze threats to networks and systems to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and information system assets. Day-to-day responsibilities will include supporting endpoint management and security, coordinating incident response, supporting technical compliance, and supporting data classification and risk management processes.

The successful candidate will have at least one year of experience, enjoy working with technical and cybersecurity staff, have a passion for communicating about cybersecurity issues and initiatives, and be committed to continuous growth and development. If you are skilled at organizing and prioritizing in an ever-changing environment, consider this position!

The cybersecurity analyst will be a member of the team in CALS Information Technology which provides information technology services and support to students, faculty, and staff in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. CALS is committed to providing the highest levels of service in a collaborative, positive work environment.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciencesis an engine ofscientific discovery, with researchers working across the spectrum of agricultural and life sciences.Academically, the college offers research-based, hands-on teaching of undergraduates; world-class graduate programs rich in research and project assistantships; and short courses, workshops and other programs. Ouroutreachactivities bring the work of the college to Wisconsin businesses, organizations and communities throughout the state. Learn moreabout CALS.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Conducts vulnerability-scanning analysis, tests security controls, documents the results of risk assessments, and suggests procedures to prevent future incidents
  • Represents CALS in the cybersecurity community at UW Madison
  • Develops and modifies cybersecurity tools
  • Provides support to CALS IT staff for security related endpoint and risk management questions
  • Receives, processes, and implements security change requests including privilege access
  • Reports application security concerns and escalates security incidents to senior staff
  • Assists with creation and adoption of divisional security policies, processes, and procedures
  • Facilitates security awareness training
  • Monitors daily system operations using intrusion detection and prevention systems and assesses findings
Department:

Administrative Computing Services

Compensation:

The anticipated salary range for this position is $95,000 - $105,000. However, final salary will depend on experience and qualifications. Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Additional benefits information can be found at: https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf

Required Qualifications:
  • 1 year of cybersecurity experience that includes all of the following :
    • Vulnerability management
    • Investigating and remediating virus/malware incursions
    • Applying technical controls to endpoint devices
    • Creating documentation to support these processes

**(Relevant student employment or internship experience will be considered)

  • Demonstrated strength in verbal and written communication skills to a variety of audiences (e.g., professional emails, documentation and reports to internal and external audiences; responding to inquiries from colleagues, clients and vendors; adjusting communication style as needed; attention to detail)

*Please note, your resume and cover letter will be used to evaluate your written communication skills. Materials will be evaluated for the following: spelling, punctuation, organization, clarity, and attention to detail*

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in IT in a higher education environment
  • Experience with data classification and cybersecurity risk management
  • Experience assessing and documenting technical compliance
Education:

Bachelor's Degree Preferred

License or Certificate:

  • Entry-level cybersecurity certification (CC, Sec+) - Preferred
How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please click on the "I am a current employee" button or "I am not a current employee" button under Apply Now. You will be prompted to upload the following documents.

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume

Please note, there is only one attachment field. You must upload all your documents into the one attachment field. All listed application materials must be received to be considered.

Finalists will be asked to provide contact information (phone and email) for three references, one of which must be a current or former supervisor. References will not be contacted without prior notice.

It's important that your cover letter and resume reflect your experience for this position related to the Qualifications section. Your application materials will be used during our evaluation to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of the appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position.

Additional Information:

  • Criminal Background Check may be required
  • Evaluation Period may be required

Work Schedule:

Normal hours are 7:45am - 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. Occasional nights and weekends may be required for this position.

Contact Information:

Sonia Parker, CALS HR Generalist

sonia.parker@wisc.edu

608-890-2547

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.


The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.


To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.


Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.