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Malware Exploit Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Your research will directly power our detection engineering teams to stay ahead of adversaries ... Hands-on expertise analyzing malware, exploit kits, and adversary infrastructure. * A proven track ...

Your research will directly power our detection engineering teams to stay ahead of adversaries ... Hands-on expertise analyzing malware, exploit kits, and adversary infrastructure. * A proven track ...

Cyber Threat Analyst

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$100K - $124K/yr

SkyePoint Decisions is a leading Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering, Critical ... Utilize technical expertise to assess malware, exploit trends, and cyber intrusion techniques.

Malware development, analysis and software vulnerability research What Required Skills You'll Bring ... software exploit development * 3-5 years development industry experience * Experience in the ...

... Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN), Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM ... Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Top Secret SCI This position is part of our Federal Solutions ...

... Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN), Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM ... Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Top Secret SCI This position is part of our Federal Solutions ...

iOS Vulnerability Engineer (Software)

Tysons, VA · On-site

$140K/yr

... Exploit Developer, Vulnerability Analyst, Secure Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired ... Understanding of malware analysis techniques * Expertise in cryptographic protocols * Proficiency ...

iOS Vulnerability Engineer (Software)

Reston, VA · On-site

$145K/yr

... Exploit Developer, Vulnerability Analyst, Secure Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired ... Understanding of malware analysis techniques * Expertise in cryptographic protocols * Proficiency ...

Showing results 21-40

Malware Exploit Developer information

What is a malware exploit developer?

A Malware Exploit Developer is a cybersecurity professional who specializes in identifying and exploiting software vulnerabilities to create malware or proof-of-concept attacks. These individuals understand low-level programming, operating system internals, and security flaws in order to develop code that can bypass security defenses. While some work for ethical purposes such as penetration testing or research, others may operate maliciously. Their work helps organizations identify and patch vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a malware exploit developer, and why are they important?

A Malware Exploit Developer needs a deep understanding of computer science fundamentals, operating systems, network protocols, and vulnerability analysis, often supported by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity. Mastery of reverse engineering tools, disassemblers (like IDA Pro), debuggers, and programming languages such as C/C++ or Python is typically required, along with certifications like OSCP or CEH. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and attention to detail help in identifying novel vulnerabilities and developing effective exploits. These skills are crucial for creating sophisticated attack tools, understanding threat landscapes, and maintaining an edge in cybersecurity research or defense.

What are some common challenges faced by malware exploit developers when working with evolving security measures?

Malware Exploit Developers frequently encounter the challenge of adapting their techniques to bypass constantly updated security protocols and software patches. This requires staying current with the latest vulnerabilities, understanding advanced defense mechanisms like sandboxing and behavioral analysis, and employing creative problem-solving to craft effective exploits. Additionally, collaborating with teams such as penetration testers and reverse engineers is often necessary to refine tools and ensure effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Keeping up with the fast pace of security advancements is both demanding and critical for success in this role.

What is the difference between Malware Exploit Developer vs Penetration Tester?

AspectMalware Exploit DeveloperPenetration Tester
CredentialsKnowledge of exploit development, programming, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., OSCP, CEH)Certifications like CEH, OSCP, CISSP often preferred
Work EnvironmentTypically in cybersecurity labs, research environments, or offensive security teamsClient sites, security firms, or internal security teams
Industry UsageUsed in offensive security, malware analysis, and exploit researchUsed in security assessments, vulnerability testing, and risk analysis

Malware Exploit Developers focus on creating malicious code and exploits, often for offensive security or research, while Penetration Testers simulate attacks to identify vulnerabilities. Both roles require cybersecurity knowledge and certifications but serve different purposes within cybersecurity strategies.

What are popular job titles related to Malware Exploit Developer jobs?

For Malware Exploit Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Malware Exploit Developer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.

Head of Adversarial Research

Sarasota, FL • On-site

Tenex
Construction • 11 - 50 employees

$200 - $250/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

TENEX is an AI-native, automation-first, built-for-scale Managed Detection and Response (MDR) provider. We are a force multiplier for defenders, helping organizations enhance their cybersecurity posture through advanced threat detection, rapid response, and continuous protection. Our team is composed of industry experts with deep experience in cybersecurity, automation and AI-driven solutions. Backed by leading investors, we are rapidly growing and seeking top talent to join our mission of revolutionizing the AI-Native MDR landscape.

We’re a fast-growing startup backed by industry experts and top-tier investors led by Crosspoint Capital Partners and also backed by Shield Capital, DTCP (formerly Deutsche Telekom Capital Partners), Deepwork Capital, and the Florida Opportunity Fund. Seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). As an early employee, you’ll play a meaningful role in defining and building our culture. Get in on the ground floor. We’re a small but well-funded team that just raised a substantial round – joining now comes with limited risk and unlimited upside.

Culture is one of the most important things at TENEX.AI—explore our culture deck at culture.tenex.ai to witness how we embody it, prioritizing the irreplaceable collaboration and community of in-person work.

About the Opportunity

TENEX is disrupting the MDR space by combining AI-native automation with human-led expertise. As the Head of Adversarial Research, you will build and run the elite research arm of our organization from the ground up. You will be the tip of the spear for tracking in-the-wild campaigns, dismantling advanced malware variants, and analyzing emerging threat actor toolkits. Your research will directly power our detection engineering teams to stay ahead of adversaries, while your published thought leadership will cement TENEX’s reputation as an authoritative voice in the cybersecurity community.

What You’ll Do
  • Build and lead the team: Recruit, mentor, and direct a world-class team of adversarial researchers, reverse engineers, and threat intelligence analysts.

  • Track the threat landscape: Continuously monitor, analyze, and document advanced threat actor campaigns, novel toolkits, TTPs, and malware variants.

  • Drive detection innovation: Perform deep-dive adversarial research—including adversary emulation and malware analysis—to uncover new attack vectors and partner with Detection Engineering to translate these findings into high-fidelity, AI-driven detections.

  • Publish and present: Author high-impact blogs, whitepapers, and technical reports on novel findings. Represent TENEX at premier cybersecurity conferences and industry events.

  • Partner across the business: Act as the ultimate escalation point for complex threat analysis, working closely with the SOC, Incident Response, and Software Engineering teams to ensure our AI models and human analysts are equipped with the latest intelligence.

What You Bring
  • 7+ years in cyber threat intelligence, adversarial research, reverse engineering, or offensive security, with at least 2+ years in a leadership or team-building role.

  • Deep understanding of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, threat actor methodologies, and the cybercrime ecosystem.

  • Hands-on expertise analyzing malware, exploit kits, and adversary infrastructure.

  • A proven track record of published research, public speaking, or community contributions (blogs, CVEs, conference talks).

  • Ability to translate highly technical, deeply complex threat data into actionable detection logic and clear executive summaries.

Bonus Points
  • Strong scripting/development skills (Python, Go, C/C++) for automating malware analysis or building custom research tools.

  • Prior experience building a research or intel function within an MDR, MSSP, or high-growth startup environment.

  • Experience leveraging AI/Machine Learning for threat intelligence and pattern recognition.

Education & Certifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

  • Relevant advanced certifications are highly preferred (e.g., GREM, GCTI, OSCE, OSCP, or similar).

Why Join Us?
  • Opportunity to build and shape a critical department from the ground floor at a disruptive, well-funded MDR company.

  • Directly impact the effectiveness of our AI-native platform by driving the intelligence that fuels our detections.

  • Competitive salary, equity, and benefits package.

  • A culture of growth, technical excellence, and collaboration, with the freedom to pursue groundbreaking research in emerging technologies.

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Tenex logo

About Tenex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Construction and manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Evanston, IL, US

Year founded

1964