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Junior Vulnerability Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products ... As a Junior Vulnerability Researchers, you will work with a team of vulnerability researchers that ...

Lead Vulnerability Researcher

Dayton, OH · Hybrid

$162K/yr

Architect research strategies for complex, undocumented, or highly resilient embedded and wireless ... Grow the technical capabilities of the team by mentoring junior and staff researchers through code ...

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Junior Vulnerability Research information

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How much do junior vulnerability research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior vulnerability research in the United States is $71,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by junior vulnerability researchers when transitioning from academic study to professional work?

Junior vulnerability researchers often find the transition to professional roles challenging due to the fast-paced and ever-evolving threat landscape. Unlike academic settings, the workplace requires rapid adaptation to new tools, real-world vulnerabilities, and strict deadlines. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as software engineers and security analysts, is essential for effective vulnerability disclosure and remediation. Additionally, junior researchers must balance continuous learning with delivering actionable results, gaining hands-on experience in live environments, and adhering to organizational security policies.

What is the difference between Junior Vulnerability Research vs Security Analyst?

AspectJunior Vulnerability ResearchSecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, cybersecurity firms, R&D teamsSecurity operations centers, corporate IT departments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesAny organization with IT security needs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level cybersecurity research rolesAssessing security posture and incident response

Junior Vulnerability Research focuses on identifying and analyzing security flaws in software and systems, often in research or development settings. Security Analysts monitor, analyze, and respond to security threats within organizations. While both roles require foundational cybersecurity knowledge and certifications, vulnerability researchers are more involved in proactive research, whereas security analysts handle ongoing security operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Vulnerability Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Vulnerability Researcher, you need a solid understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with penetration testing tools (like Metasploit, Burp Suite), scripting languages (such as Python or Bash), and certifications like CEH or OSCP is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, curiosity, and effective written communication help you identify, document, and explain security vulnerabilities clearly. These skills are crucial for uncovering and mitigating security risks, protecting organizational assets, and contributing to a safer digital environment.

What is a Junior Vulnerability Researcher?

A Junior Vulnerability Researcher is an entry-level cybersecurity professional who identifies, analyzes, and reports security weaknesses in software, hardware, or network systems. They assist in discovering vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them and often work under the supervision of more experienced researchers. Their responsibilities may include researching known vulnerabilities, developing proof-of-concept exploits, and helping organizations improve their security posture. This role is ideal for those looking to build a career in cybersecurity, as it offers hands-on experience with real-world security issues.
More about Junior Vulnerability Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Junior Vulnerability Research jobs? Cities with the most Junior Vulnerability Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vulnerability Research jobs? The most popular types of Vulnerability Research jobs are:
What states have the most Junior Vulnerability Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Vulnerability Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Junior Vulnerability Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Vulnerability Research jobs are:
Infographic showing various Junior Vulnerability Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,799 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Junior Vulnerability Researcher

Junior Vulnerability Researcher

Battelle Memorial Institute

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Battelle Memorial Institute rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Battelle delivers when others can't. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients-whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Summary
Battelle is currently seeking an aspiring Junior Vulnerability Researchers to work in our our Columbus, OH or Chantilly, VA offices.
Do you enjoy conducting vulnerability research from scratch? Do you have arguments over Ghidra vs. IDApro vs. BinaryNinja? Do you constantly switch between static analysis, dynamic analysis, and other automated methods? Do byte restrictions on shellcode make you want to solve the problem that much more? If you answered yes to these questions, this is the job for you!
As a Junior Vulnerability Researchers, you will work with a team of vulnerability researchers that have the same passion as you. You will use and build vulnerability research tools that push past the edge of current tools and techniques. On any given day you will research and debug an embedded device while getting the chance to bounce ideas off a close-knit team of researchers. We have the tools and the mentors you will need to take yourself to the next level and who are eager to learn from your experience.
Key Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field of study and (2) years of experience, a Master's degree in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education/experience in a relevant field
  • Experience with a disassembler for vulnerability research (Ghidra, IDA Pro, BinaryNinja)
  • Experience with one or more assembly languages (x86, x64, ARM, MIPS, PowerPC, etc.)
  • Experience with one or more debuggers (WinDbg, OllyDbg, gdb)
  • Experience with vulnerability research on one or more operating systems: Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, MacOS, VxWorks, QNX, RTOSs, or other custom operating systems
  • Knowledge of advanced exploitation techniques (ret2libc,use-after-free,type confusion)
  • Knowledge of exploit protection techniques (DEP, ASLR/NX)
  • Ability to code in C
  • Understanding of network protocols
  • Must Be a US Citizen with the ability and willingness to obtain a DoD Secret or higher clearance

Preferred Qualifications
  • Participation in CTFs
  • Understanding of network protocols
  • Experience with AI/ML
  • Experience with microcontrollers
  • Experience emulating embedded platforms for live debugging
  • Experience using fuzzing tools such as AFL or Peach
  • Concolic analysis research and implementation
  • Experience with symbolic analysis
  • Active DoD Secret security clearance

Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life
We care about your well-being, not just on the job. Battelle offers comprehensive and competitive benefits to help you live your best life.
  • Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off-giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
  • Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs .
  • Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
  • Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
  • Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
  • Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
  • Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.

A Work Environment Where You Succeed
For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity's most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world.
You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
  • Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects
  • Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery
  • Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environment
  • Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders
  • Give back to and improve our communities

Vaccinations & Safety Protocols
Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients' requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).
Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department.
  • #LI-JM

For more information about our other openings, please visit www.battelle.org/careers

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