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Exploit Development Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Preferred : • Verifiable contributions to vulnerability research (CVEs), exploit development, or open-source offsec projects. • Familiarity with AI prompt engineering for tool/payload generation.

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Exploit Development information

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$17

$35

$71

How much do exploit development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for exploit development in Texas is $35.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.18 and $50.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is exploit development?

An Exploit Development job involves researching software, hardware, or network vulnerabilities and creating proof-of-concept exploits to demonstrate security weaknesses. Professionals in this role analyze security flaws, write exploits, and sometimes assist in patch development. They often work in cybersecurity firms, government agencies, or red teams conducting penetration testing. Strong knowledge of low-level programming, reverse engineering, and debugging tools is essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in exploit development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Exploit Development, you need advanced knowledge of computer systems, programming languages (such as C, C++, Python, or Assembly), and a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with reverse engineering tools (like IDA Pro, Ghidra, or OllyDbg), debuggers, and certifications such as OSCE or OSEP are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex technical findings clearly are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to responsibly discover and analyze security vulnerabilities, develop proof-of-concept exploits, and contribute to organizational or client security enhancements.

What are some of the primary challenges encountered in exploit development?

Exploit Development professionals often face the challenge of staying ahead of rapidly evolving security defenses and continuously learning new attack techniques and mitigation strategies. The work can require intense focus and patience, as reverse engineering and identifying vulnerabilities in complex systems may take considerable time and persistence. Additionally, strict adherence to ethical guidelines and clear communication with cross-functional security and engineering teams is critical for responsibly handling discovered vulnerabilities. Diligence, adaptability, and ongoing professional development are key to navigating the technical and ethical complexities of this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exploit Development jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Exploit Development jobs in Texas are:
Infographic showing various Exploit Development job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,871 per year, or $35 per hour.

Aerospace Vulnerability Researcher - DoD TS Cleared

StaffRight Associates, LLC

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$156K - $234K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

*** Required US Top Secret clearance with ability to upgrade to TS/SCI SAPThe Opportunity

StaffRight Associates is recruiting for an industry-leading defense technology partner to identify a Senior Vulnerability Researcher to spearhead cutting-edge security evaluation initiatives. In this mission-critical role, you will perform deep-dive binary analysis, identify undisclosed zero-day flaws, and engineer proof-of-concept exploits across diverse system landscapes.

Operating as a pivotal technical subject matter expert, you will spearhead high-impact research initiatives that safeguard critical technological infrastructures. StaffRight Associates is managing all candidate discovery and screening for this exclusive, full-time opportunity located on-site in St. Petersburg, FL (preferred), Melbourne, FL, or San Antonio, TX.

What You’ll Do
  • Spearhead comprehensive security assessments and vulnerability discovery efforts spanning OS kernels, firmware architectures, hypervisors, real-time embedded environments, and enterprise software suites.

  • Architect and execute end-to-end research programs, transforming preliminary attack hypotheses into verified technical discoveries.

  • Deconstruct compiled binaries across X86, X64, ARM, and PowerPC hardware frameworks using advanced reverse engineering and dynamic memory inspection.

  • Engineer sophisticated exploitation mechanisms while bypassing modern defensive controls including ASLR, DEP/NX, and CFI.

  • Investigate proprietary, undocumented system behaviors to expand internal automation capabilities and threat analysis frameworks.

  • Partner with elite security engineering teams to elevate technical standards and accelerate research breakthroughs.

  • Translate complex technical exploit vectors into actionable intelligence for both executive leadership and operational teams.

  • Guide junior research staff through continuous mentorship, technical tool development, and knowledge dissemination.

What You Bring
  • 6+ Years of dedicated experience conducting high-level zero-day analysis or exploit development.

  • Active Top Secret Clearance with immediate eligibility for TS/SCI and Special Access Programs.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related STEM discipline.

  • Advanced Proficiency in Reverse Engineering, Vulnerability Discovery, Exploit Development, Kernel Security Analysis, and Assembly Language Optimization.

  • Demonstrated Mastery in low-level development using C/C++ and Python.

  • Hands-on Expertise with specialized research platforms including IDA Pro, Ghidra, Fuzzing Frameworks, Symbolic Execution Tools, and Malware Deobfuscation.

  • Proven Knowledge evaluating target platforms such as Embedded Systems, Hypervisors, Linux, Windows, MacOS, RTOS, and Networking Protocols.

  • Background supporting offensive cyber operations, national security efforts, or defense research initiatives.

  • Recognized Achievements within the research community, such as published CVEs, conference lectures, white papers, or Capture The Flag awards.

  • ship (mandatory; no visa sponsorship provided).

Compensation & Total Rewards
  • Annual Base Pay: $156,000 – $234,000 (commensurate with expertise).

  • Work Arrangement: Full-Time, On-Site position.

  • Relocation Package: Financial relocation assistance provided for qualifying hires.

Joining StaffRight Associates

When you partner with StaffRight Associates in your search for your next role, you’re doing more than pursuing a job, you’re aligning yourself with a team of experts committed to placing top-tier talent in truly impactful positions. We take pride in fostering professional growth and connecting forward-thinking individuals with organizations that value innovation and excellence. We look forward to showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with our clients and opens the door to meaningful opportunities.