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Freelance Software Reverse Engineer Jobs in Iowa City, IA

Freelance Software Reverse Engineer information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$14

$46

$129

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

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance software reverse engineer in Iowa City, IA is $46.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $60.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance software reverse engineer?

Freelance software reverse engineers are independent professionals who analyze and deconstruct software to understand its inner workings, functionality, and design. They often work on projects like software debugging, security analysis, compatibility research, or recovering lost source code. Unlike in-house engineers, freelancers take on contract-based assignments for different clients rather than working for a single employer. Their work often requires advanced technical skills and a thorough knowledge of programming, operating systems, and software architectures. This role can be essential for organizations seeking to improve software security, ensure compliance, or maintain legacy systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance software reverse engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Software Reverse Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of programming languages, binary analysis, operating system internals, and a strong background in computer science or related fields. Expertise with technical tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, Wireshark, and proficiency in using debuggers and disassemblers is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for efficiently deconstructing software, understanding its functionality, and delivering actionable insights or solutions for clients.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance software reverse engineers when working with clients?

Freelance software reverse engineers often encounter challenges such as incomplete or unclear project requirements, which can make it difficult to determine the exact scope of work. Additionally, working with obfuscated or poorly documented code can slow progress and require creative problem-solving. Communication is key, as clients may not always understand the technical complexities involved, so setting realistic expectations and providing regular updates is essential. Freelancers must also stay current with evolving tools and legal considerations, especially when handling proprietary or protected software.

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

AspectFreelance Software Reverse EngineerFreelance Malware Analyst
CredentialsKnowledge of programming, debugging, and reverse engineering toolsKnowledge of malware behavior, analysis tools, and cybersecurity principles
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, often collaborating with security teams or clientsRemote, focused on analyzing malicious code and threats for clients or security firms
Industry UsageSoftware development, cybersecurity, security consultingCybersecurity, threat intelligence, incident response
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for skills in reverse engineering and software analysisCompared for expertise in malware detection and cybersecurity threats

While both roles involve analyzing software, Freelance Software Reverse Engineers focus on understanding and deconstructing software code, whereas Freelance Malware Analysts specialize in identifying and mitigating malicious threats. The two roles often overlap but serve distinct purposes in cybersecurity and software development.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA?

For Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Software Reverse Engineer job openings in Iowa City, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,096 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Software Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Cedar Rapids, IA

Collins Aerospace
Aviation • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 252 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-09-09

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-166 ~ 855 35Th St NE ~ BLDG 166

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Are you ready to explore the world of aerospace and defense? Do you want to learn from and collaborate with some of the greatest minds in the industry? At RTX, our internships, co-ops and full-time careers provide an exceptional foundation to work on complex problems, advance your skills and create a safer, more connected world. Discover opportunities to make a difference at RTX.

What You Will Do:

  • Join a team that is defending and pen-testing computer systems and networks.

  • Reverse engineer software, malware, and system architectures.

  • Learn strategies for both free form thinking and disciplined application.

  • Hone your oral and written presentation skills.

  • Work with extraordinarily skilled team members, from project leadership to fellow interns.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Graduate Students (Master’s or Advanced Degree): Must be actively enrolled in an applicable graduate program for the duration of the internship or co‑op..

  • Undergraduate Students: Must have completed a minimum of 60 credit hours prior to the start of the internship.

  • Experience with C/C++ or Python.
     

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with assembly language (any of x86/64, ARM, PPC, MIPS, etc.).

  • Experience with reverse engineering using tools such as IDA/Ghidra/BinaryNinja.

  • Knowledge of security fundamentals (cryptography, confidentiality/integrity/availability, etc.).

  • Understanding of network protocols (TCP/IP stacks, wire-level protocols, RF communications, BGP, etc.).

What We Offer:

  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

  • Relocation Eligible

Learn More & Apply Now!

Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role.

  • Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 37,000 USD - 82,000 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

Privacy Policy and Terms:

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018