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Entry Level Vulnerability Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Junior DevOps Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$52.25 - $71.50/hr

... defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data ... This entry-level role is ideal for a recent college graduate with strong foundations in software ...

... defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data ... This entry-level role is ideal for a recent college graduate with strong foundations in software ...

... entry-level security or infrastructure certifications that include patching and vulnerability ... Compensation Ranges Compensation ranges for ASM Research positions vary depending on multiple ...

... vulnerability scanning, patch management, and system reviews Participate in security awareness ... research, and communication skills Develop professional readiness for entry-level cybersecurity ...

... vulnerability remediation, cloud security configuration, administration of security tools ... This is an entry level role, but it is best suited for someone who wants real hands on technical ...

... vulnerability remediation, cloud security configuration, administration of security tools ... This is an entry level role, but it is best suited for someone who wants real hands on technical ...

... provides entry-level support for information security activities that help protect the ... This position assists with routine security endpoint patching, monitoring, vulnerability scanning ...

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Entry Level Vulnerability Research information

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$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do entry level vulnerability research jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level vulnerability research in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Vulnerability Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Vulnerability Researcher, you need a solid understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and cybersecurity fundamentals, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools like Wireshark, Burp Suite, Metasploit, and basic scripting languages, along with certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH, is highly valuable. Analytical thinking, curiosity, attention to detail, and strong written communication help you effectively discover, document, and report vulnerabilities. These skills are crucial for identifying security weaknesses and protecting organizations from cyber threats.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level vulnerability researchers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level vulnerability researchers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex codebases, keeping up with rapidly evolving security threats, and efficiently using specialized tools for vulnerability discovery. To overcome these, new researchers should focus on continuous learning through online resources and mentorship, actively participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, and collaborate closely with more experienced team members. Regularly reviewing recent vulnerability disclosures and practicing with open-source projects can also help build both technical skills and confidence.

What is entry level vulnerability research?

Entry level vulnerability research involves identifying, analyzing, and reporting security flaws in software, hardware, or network systems. Professionals in this role often use various tools and techniques to discover vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. They typically work under the guidance of more experienced researchers and may assist in creating reports or proof-of-concept exploits. This position is ideal for those new to cybersecurity who want to develop technical analysis and problem-solving skills. Entry level vulnerability researchers play a key role in helping organizations strengthen their security posture.

What is the difference between Entry Level Vulnerability Research vs Entry Level Penetration Testing?

AspectEntry Level Vulnerability ResearchEntry Level Penetration Testing
CredentialsBasic cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+)Similar certifications, often with additional penetration testing certifications (e.g., OSCP)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, security teams, analysis-focusedSimulated attack environments, client sites, hands-on testing
Industry UsageSecurity research firms, tech companies, government agenciesConsulting firms, security service providers, corporate security teams

Entry Level Vulnerability Research involves analyzing software and systems to identify security flaws, focusing on research and analysis. Entry Level Penetration Testing emphasizes actively exploiting vulnerabilities to assess security defenses. While both roles require foundational cybersecurity knowledge and certifications, vulnerability research is more analysis-oriented, whereas penetration testing involves practical, hands-on testing of systems.

More about Entry Level Vulnerability Research jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Vulnerability Research jobs? The most popular types of Vulnerability Research jobs are:

Software Engineer (All Levels)

Adaptic

Fort George G Meade, MD

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

About the Company: Adaptic LLC, founded in 2019, specializes in software development, systems engineering, and data science for the Intelligence Community. With over 100 years of combined experience, we deliver data-driven, user-focused solutions across CONUS and OCONUS locations. Our engineers are trusted partners who blend technical expertise with business acumen to address dynamic challenges and ensure steady growth.

Apply now and learn more about our extensive benefits and customizable compensation packages. Overview We are seeking cleared Software Engineers at multiple levels to design, develop, and maintain advanced software capabilities supporting cyber-focused mission environments. Engineers will work on complex, security-sensitive systems involving low-level analysis, data processing, and tooling used in operational cyber contexts.

Work may include malware analysis support, reverse engineering, vulnerability research, and mission-enabling software development. Engineers collaborate closely with analysts, operators, and other engineers to deliver reliable, performant software aligned with mission needs. Telework may be available based on customer approval and mission requirements.Active Clearance and Polygraph are required Technical Capabilities Build and maintain low-level and application-level software using C/C++, Python, and/or Java Work within modern Git-based development and CI/CD pipelines to deliver reliable, secure code Analyze binaries, memory artifacts, logs, and network traffic to understand system behavior and identify threats Support real-world cyber missions alongside Red, Blue, and Hunt Teams Apply experience in reverse engineering, malware analysis, and vulnerability research to solve complex technical problems Collaborate closely with engineers, analysts, and operators to deliver mission-focused solutions SWE0 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field 0-1 years of software engineering experience Entry-level role performing software development tasks under supervision and guidance SWE1 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field Two (2) years of software engineering experience Two (2) years of experience developing applications using specified programming languages per development requirements Two (2) years of development for Windows or UNIX applications using general-purpose languages (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python) One (1) year of experience with cybersecurity-specific tools and techniques (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK, reverse engineering, vulnerability research) SWE2 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field Five (5) years of software engineering experience Two (2) years of experience developing applications using specified programming languages per development requirements Two (2) years of development for Windows or UNIX applications using general-purpose languages (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python) Two (2) years of experience with DevOps building and deploying technologies (e.g., Artifactory, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, Packer) One (1) year of experience with CI/CD and CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, Bamboo), including building automated CI/CD pipelines One (1) year of experience with cybersecurity-specific tools and techniques (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK, reverse engineering, vulnerability research) SWE3 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field Eight (8) years of software engineering experience Two (2) years of experience developing applications using specified programming languages per development requirements Two (2) years of development for Windows or UNIX applications using general-purpose languages (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python) Two (2) years of experience with DevOps building and deploying technologies (e.g., Artifactory, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, Packer) One (1) year of experience with CI/CD and CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, Bamboo), including building automated CI/CD pipelines One (1) year of experience with cybersecurity-specific tools and techniques (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK, reverse engineering, vulnerability research) Experience leading or providing technical direction on complex software development effortsActive Clearance and Polygraph are required Technical Capabilities Build and maintain low-level and application-level software using C/C++, Python, and/or Java Work within modern Git-based development and CI/CD pipelines to deliver reliable, secure code Analyze binaries, memory artifacts, logs, and network traffic to understand system behavior and identify threats Support real-world cyber missions alongside Red, Blue, and Hunt Teams Apply experience in reverse engineering, malware analysis, and vulnerability research to solve complex technical problems Collaborate closely with engineers, analysts, and operators to deliver mission-focused solutions SWE0 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field 0-1 years of software engineering experience Entry-level role performing software development tasks under supervision and guidance SWE1 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field Two (2) years of software engineering experience Two (2) years of experience developing applications using specified programming languages per development requirements Two (2) years of development for Windows or UNIX applications using general-purpose languages (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python) One (1) year of experience with cybersecurity-specific tools and techniques (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK, reverse engineering, vulnerability research) SWE2 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field Five (5) years of software engineering experience Two (2) years of experience developing applications using specified programming languages per development requirements Two (2) years of development for Windows or UNIX applications using general-purpose languages (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python) Two (2) years of experience with DevOps building and deploying technologies (e.g., Artifactory, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, Packer) One (1) year of experience with CI/CD and CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, Bamboo), including building automated CI/CD pipelines One (1) year of experience with cybersecurity-specific tools and techniques (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK, reverse engineering, vulnerability research) SWE3 Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field Eight (8) years of software engineering experience Two (2) years of experience developing applications using specified programming languages per development requirements Two (2) years of development for Windows or UNIX applications using general-purpose languages (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python) Two (2) years of experience with DevOps building and deploying technologies (e.g., Artifactory, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, Packer) One (1) year of experience with CI/CD and CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, Bamboo), including building automated CI/CD pipelines One (1) year of experience with cybersecurity-specific tools and techniques (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK, reverse engineering, vulnerability research) Experience leading or providing technical direction on complex software development efforts