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Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering Jobs in Pennsylvania

Cmu

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

About the role The SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a ... Malware signature creation and use, independent of detection technology * Operating system concepts ...

Victaulic

CMM Programmer Metrology

Easton, PA · On-site

Our products and services are trusted by contractors, engineers, and facility owners in more than ... Program 3D scanning workflows utilizing PolyWorks for part inspection, reverse engineering, and ...

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Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering information

What is an independent contractor reverse engineer?

An Independent Contractor Reverse Engineer is a professional who is hired on a contract basis to analyze and deconstruct products, software, or systems to understand their design, functionality, or to identify vulnerabilities. They use specialized tools and techniques to examine how something works, often with the goal of improving it, ensuring compatibility, or enhancing security. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors work for themselves and may take on projects from multiple clients. This role is common in industries like software development, electronics, and cybersecurity.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering vs Software Developer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Reverse EngineeringSoftware Developer
CredentialsTechnical certifications, reverse engineering coursesComputer science degree, coding certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance, project-based, often remoteFull-time, office or remote
Industry UsageTech, cybersecurity, patent analysisSoftware companies, tech startups
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve technical skills, Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering focuses on analyzing and understanding existing software or hardware, often on a freelance basis. Software Developers create new software products and applications. The key difference lies in reverse engineering being more investigative and specialized, whereas software development emphasizes building and coding new solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor in reverse engineering, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor in Reverse Engineering, you need a strong background in computer science, proficiency in assembly language, and experience with software analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CEH or OSCP. Familiarity with technical tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, and Hex-Rays is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, analytical thinking, and attention to detail help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively analyzing complex software, identifying vulnerabilities, and delivering high-quality findings to clients.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractors in reverse engineering projects?

Independent contractors in reverse engineering often face challenges such as limited access to original documentation, tight project deadlines, and the need to stay updated on evolving technologies. Working independently requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Contractors must also ensure compliance with legal and ethical guidelines, particularly regarding intellectual property rights, while collaborating with clients and, at times, remote teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reverse Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Reverse Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania? For Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering job openings:
Independent Contractor Reverse Engineering jobs near you

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Software Engineering Institute | Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
The Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a Reverse Engineer Researcher for the Threat Analysis directorate. The role involves reverse engineering malicious code, developing new analysis methods and tools, and collaborating with the security community to address complex threats.
Responsibilities:
• 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, and effectively participate in the broader security community
• Perform in-depth reverse engineering of malicious code, document and transition results in reports, presentations, and technical exchanges
• Explore ways to use artificial intelligence to support of reverse engineering and apply reverse engineering practices to artificial intelligence systems
• Design, prototype, and transition new analysis methods and tools
• Identify and document emerging and complex active security threats
• Participate in the broader security community through collaboration, papers, and presentations
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS in Computer Science or related discipline with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience
• Enjoy working on emerging and complex malware analysis and reverse engineering problems
• Have an analytical mindset and deep curiosity about how software works
• Ability to balance rapid prototyping with maintainable tool development
• Strong technical writing experience
• Recognize and deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive information
• Able to handle continual shifting priorities
• Enjoy mentoring and training others as well as sharing knowledge
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences
• Willingness to travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission including sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion. Moderate Travel (15%)
• Subject to a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance
Preferred:
• Experience with or knowledge of reverse engineering software binaries for a variety of architectures, both at the user level and kernel level
• Static analysis tools (e.g. IDA Pro, NSA Ghidra, Binary Ninja)
• User-level and kernel-level debuggers (e.g. x32dbg, x64dbg, gdb, WinDbg)
• Native programming languages (e.g. C/C++)
• High-level programming languages (e.g. Java, Python, GoLang, etc.)
• Software engineering and design concepts
• Firmware and device driver development
• Malware tradecraft and threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs)
• Malware signature creation and use, independent of detection technology
• Operating system concepts and internals and binary file formats (e.g. PE, ELF, Mach-O, etc.)
• Internet Protocols and network analysis tools (e.g. Wireshark, netcat, etc.)
• Compiler theory, cryptography, and malware deobfuscation techniques
• Mobile device development and reverse engineering
• Malware sandboxes or instrumentation frameworks (e.g., Frida, QEMU, Unicorn Engine)
• General understanding and experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning and using artificial intelligence to support reverse engineering and malware analysis
Company:
We conduct cutting-edge research and development that accelerates the transition of technology to the Department of War (DoW), delivering measurable impact in support of the national security mission. Founded in 1984, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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