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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 ...

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 ...

ThreatLocker

Cybersecurity Community Champion

Orlando, FL · On-site

$103K - $139K/yr

... and research emerging cyber threats, malware campaigns, ransomware activity, attacker techniques, and security trends. • Analyze real-world attacks and security incidents to identify lessons ...

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 ...

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 ...

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How much do malware research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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.

How to become a malware researcher?

A malware researcher analyzes malicious software to understand its behavior and develop detection methods. Typically, this role requires a background in computer science or cybersecurity, proficiency with programming languages like Python or C, and experience with tools such as debuggers and disassemblers. Certifications like GREM or GREM can also enhance qualifications.

How much do malware analysts make?

Malware analysts typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or security clearances can earn higher salaries, often working with tools like reverse engineering and threat detection platforms.

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.

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 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 does a malware researcher do?

A malware researcher analyzes malicious software to understand how it works, identify its origin, and develop methods to detect and remove it. They use tools like disassemblers, debuggers, and antivirus software, often working in cybersecurity environments and requiring knowledge of programming and operating systems.
More about Malware Research jobs
What states have the most Malware Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Malware Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Malware Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Malware Research jobs are:
Malware Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Malware Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 64% As Needed, 32% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,238 per year, or $44.8 per hour.
Malware Analyst III (MA3)

Malware Analyst III (MA3)

Beyond SOF

Linthicum, MD • On-site

$217K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 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: None Required.
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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