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Freelance Software Reverse Engineer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Cmu

Associate AI Security Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

You have familiarity with common AI/ML software packages and tools (e.g., Numpy, Pytorch, Tensorflow, ART). * You have knowledge or familiarity with reverse engineering tools (e.g. NSA Ghidra, IDA ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$126K - $162K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System ... reverse engineering, cocotb, pyuvm Full Time Travel required to 10%. Must be able to apply for and ...

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Freelance Software Reverse Engineer information

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance software reverse engineer in Pittsburgh, PA is $46.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $59.95 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 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 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 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 Pittsburgh, PA? For Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Freelance Software Reverse Engineer job openings:
Freelance Software Reverse Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Software Reverse Engineer job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,334 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Assistant AI Security Researcher

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Are you a cybersecurity and/or AI researcher who enjoys a challenge? Are you excited about pioneering new research areas that will impact academia, industry, and national security? If so, we want you for our team, where you'll collaborate to deliver high-quality results in the emerging area of AI security.
The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking applicants for the Assistant AI Security Researcher role. Originally created in response to one of the first computer viruses -- the Morris worm - in 1988, CERT has remained a leader in cybersecurity research, improving the robustness of software systems, and in responding to sophisticated cybersecurity threats. Ensuring the robustness and security of AI systems is the next big challenge on the horizon, and we are seeking life-long learners in the fields of cybersecurity, AI/ML, or related areas, who are willing to cross-train to address AI Security.
As part of the Threat Analysis Directorate, you will join a group of security experts focused on advancing the state of the art in AI security at a national and global scale. Our tasks include vulnerability discovery and assessments for AI systems, evaluation of the effectiveness and robustness of defenses and mitigations for AI systems, reverse engineering AI systems and models, and identifying new areas where security research is needed. We participate in communities of network defenders, software developers and vendors, security researchers, AI practitioners, and policymakers.
You will co-author technical proposals, execute research, and present findings and recommendations to our DoD sponsors, decision makers within government and industry, and at academic conferences. The SEI is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) at Carnegie Mellon University.
What you'll do:
  • Develop state of the art approaches for analyzing robustness of AI systems.
  • Apply these approaches to understanding vulnerabilities in AI systems and how attackers adapt their tradecraft to exploit those vulnerabilities.
  • Reverse engineer malicious code in support of high-impact customers, design and develop new analysis methods and tools, work to identify and address emerging and complex threats to AI systems and effectively participate in the broader security community.
  • Study and influence the AI security and vulnerability disclosure ecosystems.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of tools, techniques and processes developed by industry and the AI security research community.
  • Uncover and shape some of the fundamental assumptions underlying current best practice in AI security.
  • Develop thought models, tools and data sets that can be used to characterize the threats to, and vulnerabilities in, AI systems, and publish those results. You will also use these results to aid in the testing, evaluation and transition of technologies developed by government-funded research programs.
  • Identify opportunities to apply AI to improve existing cybersecurity research.

Who you are:
  • You have BS in machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline.
  • You have an interest in AI/ML and cybersecurity with a penchant for intellectual curiosity and a desire to make an impact beyond your organization.
  • You have practical experience with applying cybersecurity knowledge toward vulnerability research, analysis, disclosure, or mitigation.
  • You have familiarity with implementing and applying AI/ML techniques to solving practical problems.
  • You have familiarity with common AI/ML software packages and tools (e.g., Numpy, Pytorch, Tensorflow, ART).
  • You have knowledge or familiarity with reverse engineering tools (e.g. NSA Ghidra, IDA Pro)
  • You have experience with Python, C/C++, or low-level programming.
  • You have experience developing frameworks, methodologies, or assessments to evaluate effectiveness and robustness of technologies.
  • You have excellent communication skills (oral and written), particularly regarding technical communications with non-experts.
  • Applicants with strong technical proficiency in either AI/ML or cybersecurity are welcome to apply, provided a demonstrated intellectual agility and commitment required for accelerated learning within the role.

You are able to:
  • Travel to various locations to support the SEI's overall mission. This includes within the SEI and CMU community, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion (5%).
  • You will be subject to a background check and will need to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance.

Why work here?
  • Join a world-class organization that continues to have a significant impact on software.
  • Work with cutting-edge technologies and dedicated experts to solve tough problems for the government and the nation.
  • Be surrounded by friendly and knowledgeable staff with broad expertise across AI/ML, cybersecurity, software engineering, risk management, and policy creation.
  • Get 8% monthly contribution for your retirement, without having to contribute yourself.
  • Get tuition benefits to CMU and other institutions for you and your dependent children.
  • Enjoy a healthy work/life balance with flexible work arrangements and paid parental and military leave.
  • Enjoy annual professional development opportunities; attend conferences and training or obtain a certification and get reimbursed for membership in professional societies.
  • Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance

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