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Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$14

$47

$131

How much do freelance malware reverse engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance malware reverse engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $47.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.09 and $61.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of computer science, cybersecurity principles, assembly languages, and malware analysis techniques, often supported by a degree in a technical field or specialized training. Familiarity with tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, Wireshark, and relevant certifications like GREM or OSCP are highly valuable. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, persistence, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for effectively identifying, dissecting, and mitigating cyber threats in diverse environments.

What does a Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer do?

A Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer specializes in analyzing malicious software to understand its behavior, origins, and potential impact. They use reverse engineering tools and techniques to dissect malware, identify vulnerabilities, and develop countermeasures or detection signatures. Working independently or on a contract basis, they often support cybersecurity firms, enterprises, or government agencies in investigating cyber threats and improving digital defenses. Their expertise is crucial in responding to emerging threats and preventing future attacks.

What are some common challenges freelance malware reverse engineers face when working independently?

Freelance malware reverse engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to proprietary tools and resources that are typically available in larger organizations. Additionally, they must keep up with rapidly evolving malware techniques and stay current on the latest industry trends, often on their own initiative. Managing client expectations, ensuring clear communication about technical findings, and maintaining strict confidentiality with sensitive data are also crucial aspects of the role. Networking with other professionals and participating in online security communities can help overcome some of these hurdles.

What is the difference between Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer vs Freelance Security Analyst?

AspectFreelance Malware Reverse EngineerFreelance Security Analyst
CredentialsKnowledge of reverse engineering, malware analysis, programming skillsUnderstanding of security protocols, risk assessment, certifications like CISSP or CEH
Work EnvironmentTechnical labs, isolated environments, cybersecurity firmsCorporate, consulting, or freelance settings focusing on security posture
Industry UsagePrimarily in cybersecurity, malware research, incident responseBroader security field including threat detection, compliance, and policy

While both roles involve cybersecurity expertise, Freelance Malware Reverse Engineers focus specifically on analyzing and dissecting malicious software, whereas Freelance Security Analysts assess overall security risks and implement protective measures. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and technical focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer job openings:

Security Analyst - Forensics/Malware Analysis

Peraton

Chandler, AZ

$104K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 220 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is currently seeking to hire an experienced Forensics / Malware Security Analyst for its Federal Strategic Cyber Group.

Location: Chandler, AZ or Washington DC.

Role & Responsibilities: 

  • You will support a 24x7 Security Operations Center (SOC) by conducting advanced digital forensics and malware analysis to investigate, contain, and remediate cyber incidents.
  • This role provides deep technical analysis to support incident response, attribution, and operational decision-making.

You will:

  • Support 24x7 SOC operations through advanced forensic and malware investigations.
  • Perform malware analysis and reverse engineering to identify capabilities, persistence mechanisms, and indicators of compromise.
  • Conduct advanced network and digital media forensics, including endpoint, memory, and log analysis.
  • Support incident response handling, including evidence collection, containment, eradication, and recovery.
  • Maintain strict chain-of-custody procedures and forensic documentation.
  • Utilize virtual machine sandboxing and detonation environments to safely analyze malicious artifacts.
  • Correlate forensic findings with SOC alerts, threat intelligence, and adversary TTPs.
  • Produce detailed technical reports and briefings for SOC leadership and stakeholders.
Qualifications

Required: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field and 8 years of relevant experience; an additional 4 years will be considered in lieu of the degree requirement. 
  • Minimum of 5 years of specific experience in digital forensics and malware analysis.
  • Demonstrated expertise in advanced network and digital media analysis.
  • Hands-on experience with malware reverse engineering and behavioral analysis.
  • Proficiency using virtual machine sandboxing and malware detonation tools.
  • Experience maintaining forensic chain-of-custody procedures and evidentiary integrity.
  • U.S. citizenship required. 
  • Active Secret security clearance required.

Preferred:

  • Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility preferred. 
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017