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Entry Level Malware Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

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Entry Level Malware Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$33.4K

$113.6K

$273.5K

How much do entry level malware developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level malware developer in Washington, DC is $113,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,900.00 and $120,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do entry-level malware analysts make?

Entry-level malware analysts typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions but tend to increase with experience and specialized skills such as reverse engineering or using analysis tools like IDA Pro or Wireshark.

What is the difference between Entry Level Malware Developer vs Entry Level Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Malware DeveloperEntry Level Cybersecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) (preferred)CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA Security
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, security firms, software companiesCorporate IT departments, security firms, government agencies
Industry UsageDeveloping and analyzing malicious software, reverse engineeringMonitoring security systems, incident response, vulnerability assessment

While both roles involve cybersecurity skills, an Entry Level Malware Developer focuses on understanding and analyzing malicious code, often working in research or malware analysis labs. An Entry Level Cybersecurity Analyst monitors and protects systems from threats, handling incident response and security assessments. Both roles require foundational cybersecurity certifications and share a work environment within security-focused organizations, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Entry level malware developers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with senior roles, specialized expertise, or leadership positions in cybersecurity. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand environments or consulting roles. Most cybersecurity professionals start with lower salaries and increase earnings as they gain skills and responsibilities.

Is 25 too late for cyber security?

Entry level malware developers and cybersecurity professionals can start at any age, including 25. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills such as programming, understanding malware analysis, and obtaining certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH, regardless of age.

How much do malware developers make?

Entry-level malware developers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, skills, and the complexity of projects. Advanced roles or those with specialized knowledge in reverse engineering or exploit development can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level malware developers in the cybersecurity industry?

Entry-level malware developers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving security technologies and anti-malware defenses. They must continuously learn new programming techniques and adapt to changes in operating systems and network environments. Additionally, collaborating with experienced cybersecurity professionals and participating in code reviews can help them improve their skills and understand best practices for secure and efficient malware analysis and development. Teamwork and strong communication skills are essential, as projects often require close cooperation with analysts, testers, and other developers.

What does an entry level malware developer do?

An entry level malware developer is responsible for creating and testing malicious software, often as part of cybersecurity research, penetration testing, or defensive security teams in controlled environments. Their work helps organizations understand how malware operates and how to defend against it. These professionals might develop proof-of-concept viruses, analyze existing malware, and assist in building better security systems. This role typically requires programming skills, knowledge of operating systems, and a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Malware Developer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Malware Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Malware Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Entry Level Malware Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Malware Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Malware Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Entry Level Malware Developer jobs near you
Software Engineer II w/Top Secret Clearance

Software Engineer II w/Top Secret Clearance

TekSynap

Washington, DC

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

TekSynap rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 206 rated it services

Job description

Overview

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Location: Washington, D.C.
  • Type of environment: Office
  • Noise level: Medium
  • Work schedule: Schedule is day shift Monday – Friday. May be requested to work evenings and weekends to meet program and contract needs.
  • Amount of Travel: 10%

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE

U.S. Citizen

Top Secret Clearance

WAGE INFORMATION

Target salary range: $100,000 - $140,000. The salary range displayed is an estimate and will be determined based on several factors, including the individual’s combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract parameters and organizational requirements. The listed salary represents one component of the total compensation package for employees.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle, feel, touch; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear. The employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is regularly required to lift up to 10 pounds. The employee is frequently required to lift up to 25 pounds; and up to 50 pounds. The vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

OTHER INFORMATION

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice


Responsibilities

We are seeking a Software Engineer II to join our team supporting the FBI.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience

  • At least 2 years of software development experience
  • At least 2 years of experience working with full-stack technologies including Java and scripting languages such as JavaScript or Python
  • Experience developing exploitation capabilities for Linux environments
  • Experience taking a defined vulnerability from concept to exploited proof of concept
  • Knowledge of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, Mac, and mobile operating systems including iOS and Android, application behaviors, and network traffic analysis to identify malware exploits
  • Demonstrated experience supporting government agencies, customers, or contracts within federal environments. This includes the Intelligence Community (IC), Department of Defense (DoD), Federal Civil agencies, and military organizations. Prior experience supporting the same or similar contract, with an in-depth understanding of the customer environment, requirements, and operational landscape, is highly desirable.

Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in an Information Technology discipline or equivalent experience

Clearance

  • Top Secret Clearance

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform reverse engineering and vulnerability research services.
  • Leverage analysis tools including disassemblers, decompilers, and debuggers.
  • Research and understand adversaries’ tactics, techniques, and procedures to enable the success of mission owners.
  • Use vulnerability analysis, exploitation, and defensive process experience to execute offensive cyber operations that inform critical security missions.
  • Apply leading-edge principles, theories, and technologies and contribute to the development of new cyber operations concepts and tradecraft.

COMPETENCIES

  • Establish Focus
  • Change Management
  • Develop Others
  • Oral Communication
  • Written Communication
  • Interpersonal Awareness
  • Build Relationships
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Conceptual Thinking
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Technical Expertise
  • Initiative
  • Foster Innovation
  • Results Oriented
  • Teamwork
  • Customer Service

Qualifications

TekSynap is a fast growing high-tech company that understands both the pace of technology today and the need to have a comprehensive well planned information management environment. “Technology moving at the speed of thought” embodies these principles – the need to nimbly utilize the best that information technology offers to meet the business needs of our Federal Government customers. Apply now to explore jobs with us at www.TekSynap.com.

We offer our full-time employees a competitive benefits package to include health, dental, vision, 401K, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability plans, vacation time and holidays.

TekSynap is a drug-free workplace. We reserve the right to conduct drug testing in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. All employees and candidates may be subject to drug screening if deemed necessary to ensure a safe and compliant working environment.

By applying to a role at TekSynap you are providing consent to receive text messages regarding your interview and employment status. If at any time you would like to opt out of text messaging, respond "STOP". As part of the application process, you agree that TekSynap Corporation may retain and use your name, e-mail, and contact information for purposes related to employment consideration.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. TekSynap does not discriminate against any person because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law (referred to as “protected status”). This nondiscrimination policy extends to all terms, conditions, and privileges of employment as well as the use of all company facilities, participation in all company-sponsored activities, and all employment actions such as promotions, compensation, benefits, and termination of employment. TekSynap is committed to ensuring that our online application process provides an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers, including individuals with disabilities. If you believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an application, please contact hr@teksynap.com for assistance.