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Malware Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Media Malware Analyst, Junior

Odenton, MD · On-site

Perform static and dynamic malware analysis, including reverse engineering and extracting malicious ... Research open-source intel to inform threat assessments and signature creation. * Develop and ...

NSS

Android Malware Reverse Engineer

Bothell, WA

NSS is currently hiring for an Android Malware Reverse Engineer to support a well known client ... Research on threats such as APT using Open-Source Intelligence (Virus Total, Web, ExploitDB, MITRE ...

Wiz

Threat Intelligence Researcher (Cloud)

The Threat Intelligence Researcher (Cloud) will track, analyze, and report on advanced threats ... malware used by advanced actors. • Investigate and attribute incidents, campaigns, and threat ...

NSS

Android Malware Reverse Engineer

Austin, TX

NSS is currently hiring for an Android Malware Reverse Engineer to support a well known client ... Research on threats such as APT using Open-Source Intelligence (Virus Total, Web, ExploitDB, MITRE ...

NSS

Android Malware Reverse Engineer

Austin, TX

NSS is currently hiring for an Android Malware Reverse Engineer to support a well known client ... Research on threats such as APT using Open-Source Intelligence (Virus Total, Web, ExploitDB, MITRE ...

NSS

Android Malware Reverse Engineer

Bothell, WA

NSS is currently hiring for an Android Malware Reverse Engineer to support a well known client ... Research on threats such as APT using Open-Source Intelligence (Virus Total, Web, ExploitDB, MITRE ...

Leidos

Media Malware Analyst, Senior

Odenton, MD

Research open-source intel to inform threat assessments and signature creation. * Develop and ... Eight plus years' demonstrated proficiency in malware analysis (static/dynamic), incident handling ...

Leidos

Media Malware Analyst, Senior

Odenton, MD · On-site

Research open-source intel to inform threat assessments and signature creation. * Develop and ... Eight plus years' demonstrated proficiency in malware analysis (static/dynamic), incident handling ...

Leidos

Media Malware Analyst, Journeyman

Odenton, MD

Perform static and dynamic malware analysis, including reverse engineering and extracting malicious ... Research open-source intel to inform threat assessments and signature creation. * Develop and ...

Leidos

Media Malware Analyst, Journeyman

Odenton, MD · On-site

Perform static and dynamic malware analysis, including reverse engineering and extracting malicious ... Research open-source intel to inform threat assessments and signature creation. * Develop and ...

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How much do malware researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for malware researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do malware researchers make?

Malware researchers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in cybersecurity-focused environments.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Malware researchers and cybersecurity professionals can potentially earn $500,000 annually, especially with advanced skills, extensive experience, certifications like CISSP or OSCP, and roles in high-paying industries or leadership positions. However, such salaries are typically achieved through senior roles, consulting, or specialized expertise rather than entry-level positions.

Is SOC an entry level job?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst role is typically considered an entry-level position in cybersecurity, often suitable for individuals with basic knowledge of network security, threat detection, and security tools. However, some SOC roles may require prior experience or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, depending on the complexity of the environment. Advancement usually involves gaining hands-on experience and developing specialized skills in incident response and threat analysis.

What is a Malware Researcher job?

A Malware Researcher is a cybersecurity expert who analyzes malicious software to understand its behavior, origin, and impact. They reverse-engineer malware, develop detection methods, and create defenses to protect systems from cyber threats. Their work involves using specialized tools, programming, and forensic techniques to uncover vulnerabilities and patterns used by attackers. Malware Researchers often collaborate with cybersecurity teams, law enforcement, and organizations to mitigate threats and improve security measures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Malware Researcher position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Malware Researcher, you need strong expertise in computer science, reverse engineering, programming (such as C/C++ or Python), and a deep understanding of operating systems and network protocols. Proficiency with tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, Wireshark, virtualization platforms, and malware analysis sandboxes, plus certifications like GREM or OSCP, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure accurate malware identification, effective threat analysis, and clear communication of findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders, all critical for maintaining cybersecurity.

What does a typical day look like for a Malware Researcher?

A typical day for a Malware Researcher involves analyzing suspected malicious files or code samples, documenting findings, and collaborating with cybersecurity teams to develop detection and mitigation strategies. You'll often use specialized tools to perform static and dynamic analysis, write detection rules, and stay updated on the latest threat trends. The role frequently requires responding quickly to new threats and participating in team meetings to discuss ongoing investigations. Expect a mix of independent research and close teamwork, as well as ongoing learning in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

How to become a malware researcher?

To become a malware researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field is required. Gaining skills in reverse engineering, programming languages like C and Python, and familiarity with malware analysis tools such as IDA Pro or Wireshark is essential, along with practical experience through internships or labs. Certifications like GREM or GIAC Malware Analysis can also enhance qualifications.
More about Malware Researcher jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Malware Researcher jobs? The most popular types of Malware Researcher jobs are:
What states have the most Malware Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Malware Researcher jobs include:
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Malware Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Malware Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Principal Security Researcher (Malware Research - Antivirus Systems)

Principal Security Researcher (Malware Research - Antivirus Systems)

Palo Alto Networks

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$162K - $263K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop new features for the automated anti-virus signature generation and delivery system.

  • Research and implement signature algorithms for new file formats.

  • Identify limitations or issues in existing signature algorithms and improve them.

Job description

Our Mission

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.

Who We Are

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

Your Career

As a Principal Security Researcher (Antivirus Systems), we are looking for a motivated, intelligent, hardworking and creative individual to join our team that develops the content to power the Palo Alto Networks' Next Generation Firewall. You will work with the best security team in the industry, who invented the well-known cloud-based security platform WildFire. You will be responsible for a highly automated, 24/7 anti-virus signature generation and delivery system. You will have a deep understanding of the signature generation logic as well as create new detection features.

Your Impact

  • Develop new features for the automated anti-virus signature generation and delivery system

  • Research and implement signature algorithms for new file formats

  • Identify limitations/issues in existing signature algorithms and improve them

  • Research on and publish about innovations & emerging security trends

Qualifications

  • BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science or Computer Engineering or equivalent military experience required

  • 6 to 8+ years of relevant experience preferred

  • Experience with Python/Golang programming language

  • Strong core Computer Engineering skills such as databases, operating systems, algorithms

  • Working knowledge and interest in learning common file formats (PE, Office, PDF etc)

  • Experience with malware analysis

  • Understanding of networking and core Internet protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP)

  • Experience with a data pipeline based system with several moving components in a distributed cloud environment

  • Experience with developing in a public cloud environment such as GCP, AWS

  • Troubleshooting and virtualization experience in Linux

  • Strong problem solving abilities

  • Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills

  • Knowledge/experience with tools such as Docker, Elastic-Search, Kafka, RabbitMQ, MySQL, SQLite, Redis is a big plus

  • Experience in implementing security solutions using AI is preferred

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 (https://benefits.paloaltonetworks.com/) .

$162,700.00 - $263,175.00/yr

Our Commitment

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?: Yes

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