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Malware Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beyond SOF

Malware Analyst III (MA3)

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$217K/yr

... research of software and methodologies to build defensive and offensive technical capabilities for USCYBERCOM. - Possesses senior-level experience as a Malware Analyst with a background in cutting ...

Beyond SOF

Malware Analyst III (MA3)

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$196 - $239/hr

Performs in-depth detailed research of software and methodologies to build defensive and offensive technical capabilities for USCYBERCOM. * Possesses senior-level experience as a Malware Analyst with ...

Forensic Focus Limited

$120 - $180/hr

Who It Suits This role suits a technically accomplished reverse engineer comfortable working independently on complex malware research initiatives. It is well matched to someone who thrives at the ...

Peraton

Malware Analyst

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Develop, research, and maintain proficiency in tools, techniques, countermeasures, and trends in ... Create malware detection topologies; conduct vulnerability assessments/penetration tests of ...

Peraton

Malware Analyst

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Develop, research, and maintain proficiency in tools, techniques, countermeasures, and trends in ... Create malware detection topologies; conduct vulnerability assessments/penetration tests of ...

Peraton

Malware Analyst

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Develop, research, and maintain proficiency in tools, techniques, countermeasures, and trends in ... Create malware detection topologies; conduct vulnerability assessments/penetration tests of ...

Amatriot Group, LLC

Mobile Malware Engineer

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Threat Detection and Research * Identify command-and-control (C2) infrastructure, persistence ... malware behavior and command-and-control infrastructure. * Recommend preventative or defensive ...

CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc.

$120 - $180/hr

This role will work most closely with internal teams such as Technical Account Managers, Falcon Complete, Data Scientists and the Malware Research Center in Data Science. What You'll Do: * Analyze ...

New

Peraton

Mobile Malware Engineer

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Mobile Malware Engineer in our Linthicum, MD office in ... Perform ongoing research into malicious software, emerging vulnerabilities, and exploitation ...

Beyond SOF

Malware Analyst II

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Conduct threat research to identify emerging threats. Minimum Required Qualifications * Due to the ... Three years of demonstrated experience with Malware Analysis. * Two years of demonstrated ...

CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc.

$120 - $180/hr

This role will work most closely with internal teams such as Technical Account Managers, Falcon Complete, Data Scientists and the Malware Research Center in Data Science. What You'll Do: * Analyze ...

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How much do malware research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for malware research in the United States is $44.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.88 and $58.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is malware research?

Malware research is the process of studying malicious software (malware) to understand how it operates, spreads, and affects computer systems. Researchers analyze malware samples using various techniques to identify their behavior, origins, and vulnerabilities. This information helps in developing effective detection, prevention, and removal strategies to protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats. Malware research also contributes to improving cybersecurity tools and informing law enforcement about emerging threats.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in malware research?

Malware researchers often encounter the challenge of keeping pace with rapidly evolving threats and sophisticated attack techniques. The role requires continuous learning and adaptability, as new malware variants and evasion methods emerge frequently. Additionally, researchers must ensure their analysis environments are secure to prevent accidental infections or data breaches. Collaboration with other cybersecurity teams, such as incident response and threat intelligence, is also essential to sharing insights and developing effective countermeasures.

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

To thrive as a Malware Researcher, you need strong expertise in cybersecurity, reverse engineering, programming (such as C/C++ or Python), and a solid understanding of operating systems and malware behaviors, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, Wireshark, and sandbox environments, as well as certifications like CEH or OSCP, is highly valuable. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for interpreting complex threats and collaborating with security teams. These skills are essential for identifying, analyzing, and mitigating malicious software to protect organizational assets and maintain cybersecurity.

What is the difference between Malware Research vs Malware Analysis?

AspectMalware ResearchMalware Analysis
CredentialsCybersecurity certifications, programming skillsCybersecurity certifications, reverse engineering skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, cybersecurity firms, academiaSecurity operations centers, incident response teams
Industry UsageDeveloping detection methods, understanding malware evolutionIdentifying, dissecting, and mitigating malware threats
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding malware development and behaviorAnalyzing specific malware samples for threats

Malware Research focuses on studying malware to understand its development, behavior, and evolution, often in research labs or academic settings. Malware Analysis involves dissecting specific malware samples to identify threats and mitigate risks, typically within security operations or incident response teams. Both roles require cybersecurity expertise but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

Are malware researchers in demand?

Malware researchers are in high demand due to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats. Organizations across industries seek experts skilled in reverse engineering, threat analysis, and using tools like sandbox environments, often requiring relevant certifications and strong technical skills.

How do you become a malware researcher?

To become a malware researcher, individuals typically pursue a degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field, and develop skills in programming, reverse engineering, and network analysis. Gaining experience with tools like disassemblers, debuggers, and malware analysis sandboxes, along with certifications such as GREM or GREM, can enhance job prospects in this specialized field.

How much do malware researchers make?

Malware researchers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior professionals with specialized skills in reverse engineering and threat analysis can earn higher salaries, especially in cybersecurity-focused environments.
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What states have the most Malware Research jobs?

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Malware Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Malware Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,238 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Malware Analyst III (MA3)

Beyond SOF

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$196 - $239/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Malware Analyst III (MA3)

Salary: Up to $217,500, depending on education and experience
Security Requirements: TS/SCI with CI Poly (both active).
Education: Minimum of bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or
university in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related discipline.

Certifications

A minimum of DoD 8140/DoD 8570 IAM Level III Certification, CSSP Manager.

Experience (Ten Years Required)
  • Employs engineering techniques and processes to analyze software to identify vulnerabilities. - Re-creates programs to rebuild something like it, exploits its weaknesses, or strengthens its defenses.
  • Develops design specifications by inspection and analysis to offset various
    malware and to protect and defend USCYBERCOM infrastructure.
  • Develops, researches, and maintains proficiency in tools, techniques,
    countermeasures, and trends in computer and network vulnerabilities, data hiding, and encryption. - Conducts vulnerability assessments/penetration tests of information systems.
  • Ensures software standards are met; designs, develops, documents, tests, and debugs applications software and systems that contain logical and mathematical solutions. - Performs in-depth detailed research of software and methodologies to build defensive and offensive technical capabilities for USCYBERCOM.
  • Possesses senior-level experience as a Malware Analyst with a background in cutting-edge cyberspace technologies.
  • Often and without source code or documentation, performs system analysis, reverse engineering, and static, dynamic, and best-practice malware analytics methodologies and analysis on Windows, Android, or UNIX-based platforms.
  • Coordinates effort to develop and analyze cyberspace operations, DCO, Computer Network Exploitation (CNE), and OCO solutions.
  • Creates malware detection topologies. - Possesses comprehensive knowledge of programming skills especially including C/C++ and Assembly language, Windows internal C/C++ and either UNIX/Linux or mobile (Android) platform, malware and things related to malware research and analysis, reverse engineering, vulnerability analysis, exploit development, and related disciplines.
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