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Malware Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Malware Intern information

What does a malware intern do?

A Malware Intern assists cybersecurity teams in analyzing, identifying, and understanding malicious software. Their tasks often include reverse engineering malware samples, documenting findings, and supporting senior analysts in threat research. This role helps interns develop practical skills in malware detection, digital forensics, and security tool usage. Typically, they work under supervision, gaining invaluable experience in the cybersecurity field.

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

To thrive as a Malware Intern, you need a foundation in computer science fundamentals, programming (often Python or C/C++), and a basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts. Familiarity with malware analysis tools like IDA Pro, Wireshark, and sandbox environments, as well as knowledge of operating system internals, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for accurately identifying, dissecting, and mitigating malware threats in dynamic security environments.

What types of projects or responsibilities can a malware intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Malware Intern, you can expect to participate in hands-on projects such as analyzing malware samples, documenting findings, and assisting in the development of detection signatures. You may also support senior analysts by researching emerging threats, preparing reports, and helping automate parts of the malware analysis process. Collaboration with cybersecurity teams and regular knowledge-sharing sessions are common, providing valuable learning experiences and exposure to real-world workflows.

What is the difference between Malware Intern vs Cybersecurity Intern?

AspectMalware InternCybersecurity Intern
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in Computer Science or CybersecuritySimilar; often pursuing or recent graduate in related field
Work EnvironmentHands-on malware analysis, reverse engineering, threat researchBroader security tasks, including network security, risk assessment
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, security firms, government agencies focusing on malware detectionVarious organizations including tech, finance, and government focusing on overall security

Malware Interns focus specifically on analyzing and understanding malicious software, while Cybersecurity Interns have a broader scope covering various security aspects. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in similar industries, but Malware Interns specialize in malware-related tasks.

What job categories do people searching Malware Intern jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Malware Intern jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Malware Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Malware Intern job openings:

Intern - Security Researcher - PhD Pipline

Encino, CA • On-site

Palo Alto Networks
Network Security • 10K+ employees

$129K - $208K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Security Researcher Intern

At Palo Alto Networks®, we're united by a shared mission—to protect our digital way of life. We thrive at the intersection of innovation and impact, solving real-world problems with cutting-edge technology and bold thinking. Here, everyone has a voice, and every idea counts. If you're ready to do the most meaningful work of your career alongside people who are just as passionate as you are, you're in the right place.

In order to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, we must trailblaze the path and shape the future of our industry. This is something our employees work at each day and is defined by our values: Disruption, Collaboration, Execution, Integrity, and Inclusion. We weave AI into the fabric of everything we do and use it to augment the impact every individual can have. If you are passionate about solving real-world problems and ideating beside the best and the brightest, we invite you to join us!

We believe collaboration thrives in person. That's why most of our teams work from the office full time, with flexibility when it's needed. This model supports real-time problem-solving, stronger relationships, and the kind of precision that drives great outcomes.

Job Summary

We are looking for a passionate and self-driven Security Researcher Intern to join our Cloud-Delivered Security Services team. As a Security Researcher you will play a critical role in developing and refining security content that powers our next-generation products. You'll work on building and optimizing automation systems to gather and process real-time data, supporting the detection and prevention of malware and other digital threats. Collaborating with experienced security researchers, you'll analyze emerging threats and contribute to robust security solutions. Our Internship Program Our program provides mentorship, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to work on impactful projects. You'll connect with other interns, recent graduates, and seasoned professionals, thriving in an environment that values curiosity, collaboration, and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop an understanding of next-generation firewalls and their application in modern network security.
  • Build and enhance automation systems for efficient data collection and real-time processing to support threat analysis.
  • Apply AI/ML techniques to analyze live network traffic for the detection, analysis, and mitigation of emerging security threats.
  • Research and propose effective network security countermeasures to identify and neutralize various cyber-attack vectors.
  • Proactively collaborate with senior security researchers to analyze adversarial tactics and contribute to the implementation of proactive security protections.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications Currently pursuing a 2-year Master's degree or Doctorate in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with a planned return to school post-internship. Must be authorized to work in the United States. Available for a May or June 2025 start date.

Preferred Qualifications Currently pursuing a Doctorate (PhD) degree. Experience with ML/GenAI techniques (e.g., anomaly detection, deep learning, NLP) and tools (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-Learn). Exposure to malware analysis and participation in Capture-the-Flag (CTF) exercises. Hands-on experience with traffic analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump) or reverse engineering tools. Basic understanding of malware types (e.g., Spyware, Ransomware, Exploits) and common vulnerabilities (e.g., command injection, buffer overflow). Familiarity with key network protocols such as HTTP, SMTP, and FTP. Proficiency in at least one programming language, such as Python or Go.

Compensation Disclosure The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and work location. For candidates who receive an offer at the posted level, the starting base salary (for non-sales roles) or base salary + commission target (for sales/com-missioned roles) is expected to be the annual range listed below. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here.

$129,100.00 - $208,825.00/yr

We're trailblazers that dream big, take risks, and challenge cybersecurity's status quo. It's simple: we can't accomplish our mission without diverse teams innovating, together.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at accommodations@paloaltonetworks.com.

Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Is role eligible for Immigration Sponsorship? No. Please note that we will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.