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Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Senior Malware Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$135K - $216K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is currently hiring a Senior Malware Reverse Engineer for its' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid 50/50) Overview: The Federal Strategic Cyber ...

Jr Malware Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$86K - $138K/yr

As a Junior Malware Reverse Engineer , you'll work handson with malicious binaries, support active cyber operations, and contribute to defensive strategies that protect critical government systems.

You enjoy working on emerging and complex malware analysis and reverse engineering problems. * You have an analytical mindset and deep curiosity about how software works. * You have the ability to ...

Using expertise in malware reverse engineering and analysis, the engineer will evaluate complex malicious code through tools including disassemblers, debuggers, hex editors, unpackers, virtual ...

Mobile Malware Engineer

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Using expertise in malware reverse engineering and analysis, the engineer will evaluate complex malicious code through tools including disassemblers, debuggers, hex editors, unpackers, virtual ...

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Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$15

$49

$136

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance malware reverse engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $49.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.10 and $63.85 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 job categories do people searching Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer job openings:
Senior Malware Engineer

Senior Malware Engineer

Peraton

Arlington, VA • Hybrid

$135K - $216K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 210 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is currently hiring a Senior Malware Reverse Engineer for its' Federal Strategic Cyber programs. 

Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid 50/50)

Overview: 

The Federal Strategic Cyber group is seeking a Senior Malware Reverse Engineer to support missioncritical cybersecurity operations for a longterm government customer. This role offers the opportunity to work on advanced malware threats, support active operations, and shape defensive strategies that protect highvalue federal networks. Local candidates able to work in a hybrid environment are required.

Responsibilities:

  • Isolate, analyze, and reverseengineer malicious binaries to determine behavior, functionality, and intent.
  • Conduct indepth static and dynamic analysis of malware samples across multiple platforms.
  • Produce comprehensive technical reports detailing findings, characteristics, and operational impact of malicious code.
  • Support active cyber operations and engage with cuttingedge challenges in the malware analysis domain.
  • Recommend countermeasures and mitigation strategies for malware targeting government communication systems.
  • Reverseengineer known and suspected malware to support incident response and threathunting missions.
  • Develop and refine policies, procedures, and methodologies for malware investigations across diverse networks.
  • Collaborate with cyber operators, analysts, and mission partners to enhance malware defense capabilities.

#CISA

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree with 12+ years of relevant technical experience, or a Master's degree with 10+ years of experience.
    • An additional 4 years of experience may be substituted for a degree.
  • Experience analyzing malicious applications across Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and IoT devices.
  • Proficiency with several of the following tools:
    • IDA Pro, OllyDbg, x64dbg, Scylla x64, Objdump, Readelf, Ghidra, Process Explorer, CFF Explorer, Wireshark, Fiddler, Regshot, Process Monitor, Process Hacker
  • Demonstrated strong understanding of reverseengineering methodologies and file reconstruction.
  • Ability to unpack, deobfuscate, and analyze highly complex malicious applications.
  • Handson debugging experience, including identifying and defeating custom or known packers.
  • Experience with disassemblers and disassembly workflows.
  • U.S. citizenship required.
  • Active Top Secret Clearance with the ability to obtain SCI.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DHS EOD background investigation.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with Python for automation or tooling.
  • Programming knowledge in one or more of the following:
    • Java, C, C++, .NET, PowerShell, Golang, C#
  • Familiarity with ICS/SCADA systems and related security considerations.
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$135,000 - $216,000. 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