1

Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reverse Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$133K - $264K/yr

Job Brief Reverse Engineer, Malware, IDA Pro, Ghidra Are you VIGILANT about your career? RealmOne definitely is! RealmOne was built on the principle that people matter first and foremost. We believe ...

Experience with malware reverse engineering is required and expertise with Ghidra and/or IDA Pro is helpful. The Level 3 Reverse Engineer shall possess the following capabilities: * Perform technical ...

Reverse Engineer 2

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$136K - $183K/yr

Job Brief Reverse Engineer, Malware, IDA Pro, Ghidra Are you VIGILANT about your career? RealmOne definitely is! RealmOne was built on the principle that people matter first and foremost. We believe ...

Reverse Engineer 4

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$183K - $235K/yr

Job Brief Reverse Engineer, Malware, IDA Pro, Ghidra Are you VIGILANT about your career? RealmOne definitely is! RealmOne was built on the principle that people matter first and foremost. We believe ...

Reverse Engineer 3

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$194K - $247K/yr

Job Brief Reverse Engineer, Malware, IDA Pro, Ghidra Are you VIGILANT about your career? RealmOne definitely is! RealmOne was built on the principle that people matter first and foremost. We believe ...

Reverse Engineer 4

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$182K - $233K/yr

Experience with malware reverse engineering is required and expertise with Ghidra and/or IDA Pro is helpful. The Level 4 Reverse Engineer shall possess the following capabilities: * Perform technical ...

Reverse Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$94K - $198K/yr

Join our dynamic team as a Reverse Engineer with a focus on malware exploitation (MEX) and mobile capabilities. This role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact by enhancing our endpoint ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance malware reverse engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance malware reverse engineer?

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 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.

More about Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Malware Reverse Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Malware Reverse Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance Malware Reverse Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Senior Malware Engineer / Active Top Secret

Peraton

Virginia, IL • On-site

$130 - $180/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 224 rated it services


Job description

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 the bachelor's degree.



  • Demonstrated experience and expertise in 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 reverse-engineering methodologies and file reconstruction.

  • Ability to unpack, de-obfuscate, and analyze highly complex malicious applications.

  • Hands-on 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 IC SA/SCADA systems and related security considerations.


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


Location:

Arlington, VA (Hybrid - On-site/Remote: 50/50). Local candidates able to work in a hybrid environment required.


Overview:

The Federal Strategic Cyber group is seeking a Senior Malware Reverse Engineer to support mission‑critical cybersecurity operations for a long‑term government customer. This role offers the opportunity to work on advanced malware threats, support active operations, and shape defensive strategies that protect high‑value federal networks.


Responsibilities:

  • Isolate, analyze, and reverse-engineer malicious binaries to determine behavior, functionality, and intent.

  • Conduct in‑depth 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 cutting‑edge challenges in the malware analysis domain.

  • Recommend countermeasures and mitigation strategies for malware targeting government communication systems.

  • Reverse-engineer known and suspected malware to support incident response and threat‑hunting 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

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Peraton employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Peraton logo

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