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Malware Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Beyond SOF

Software Developer- C/C#

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Malware development, analysis and software vulnerability research What Required Skills You'll Bring: * Active TS/SCI Clearance * Must be proficient in offensive capability development for Windows ...

Beyond SOF

Software Developer- C/C#

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Malware development, analysis and software vulnerability research What Required Skills You'll Bring: * Active TS/SCI Clearance * Must be proficient in offensive capability development for Windows ...

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How much do malware research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for malware research in Virginia is $43.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.12 and $57.28 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.

What are popular job titles related to Malware Research jobs in Virginia?

For Malware Research jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Malware Research jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Malware Research jobs in Virginia are:

Malware Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Malware Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,676 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

GREM Certified Cyber Malware Reverse Engineer 104-025

IC-CAP LLC

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

GREM Certified Cyber Malware Reverse Engineer:
Job Description Summary:
Your work in cyber security will have an impact on securing our clients missions and ensuring we anticipate the threats of tomorrow. As a Cyber Malware Reverse Engineer you will help ensure today is safe and tomorrow is smarter
Level 6:
  • Investigates, analyzes, and responds to cyber incidents within a network environment or enclave.
  • Uses data collected from a variety of cyber defense tools (e.g., IDS alerts, firewalls, network traffic logs) to analyze events that occur within their environments for the purposes of mitigating threats. Interprets, analyzes, and reports all events and anomalies in accordance with computer network directives, including initiating, responding, and reporting discovered events.
  • Evaluates, tests, recommends, coordinates, monitors, and maintains cybersecurity policies, procedures, and systems, including access management for hardware, firmware, and software.
  • Ensures that cybersecurity plans, controls, processes, standards, policies, and procedures are aligned with cybersecurity standards.
  • Identifies security risks and exposures, determines the causes of security violations and suggests procedures to halt future incidents and improve security.
  • Researches and evaluates new concepts and processes to improve performance.
  • Analyzes cross-functional problem sets, identifies root causes and resolves issues.
  • Develops techniques and procedures for conducting cybersecurity risk assessments and compliance audits, the evaluation and testing of hardware, firmware and software for possible impact on system security, and the investigation and resolution of security incidents such as intrusion, frauds, attacks or leaks.
  • May coach and provide guidance to less-experienced professionals.
  • May serve as a team or task lead.

HOW A CYBER MALWARE REVERSE ENGINEER WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:
  • Work will provide customer understanding of current malware and how to apply appropriate countermeasures.
  • Outstanding problem-solving skills are essential. When serious malware threats are identified, you will work closely with other areas of the security team to identify appropriate solutions.
  • You must be passionate about technology, and able to learn the ropes of new security solutions rapidly.
  • Recognize common behavior patterns that are primarily found in malware.
  • Indicators of Compromise (IOC)s will be obtained through: forensic analysis of digital information, Open-Source Intel (OSINT) review/monitoring, available tools both customer provided and open source, and pivoting/researching on previously reported IOCs.
  • Participate in collaborative sessions with other CNDSPs and IC agencies on malicious intrusions, attacks or suspicious activities, as well as share emerging Cyber Threat Intel data.
  • Assist in the development of IOCs for active defensive countermeasures and passive detection signatures.
  • Day or Swing shift position available.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Expertise in reverse engineering malware, and familiarity with today's tools and operational needs.
  • Ability to identify vulnerabilities in software and hardware, analyze and reverse engineer software and hardware systems
  • Attention to detail and ability to work with team-members and independently.
  • Must have common knowledge of standard network infrastructure.
  • Familiar with monitoring emerging threats through Tools, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) and how they relate to the MITRE ATT&CK Framework
  • Knowledge of debuggers and disassemblers and familiar with linkers and loaders
  • Knowledge of domain masquerading, certificates, and file hashing.
  • Strong written communications skills are necessary to properly document and report the malware.

Education and Experience:
  • HSD/GED+16yrs
  • Associates+14yrs
  • Bachelors+12yrs
  • Masters+10yrs
  • PhD+8yrs
  • Relevant professional certifications will be considered equivalent to six (6) months of relevant experience.

Training and Certifications:
  • IAT Level 2
  • GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM)

Security Clearance:
  • Active TS SCI and the willingness to take a polygraph if needed.

Apply