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Malware Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

The right person may come from AI security, ML security, malware data science, cyber-defense research, adversarial ML, LLM security, offensive security, threat hunting, or applied security research ...

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Malware Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do malware researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 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.

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.

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

Malware researchers and cybersecurity professionals can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand areas like threat intelligence or security architecture. Such salaries are typically found in senior roles, management, or specialized consulting positions, often requiring extensive expertise and a strong track record. Entry-level or mid-tier roles usually have lower compensation levels.

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 candidates with basic knowledge of networking, security tools, and incident response. However, some SOC roles may require prior experience or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, depending on the complexity of the environment.

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?

A malware researcher typically has a background in computer science, cybersecurity, or related fields, and develops skills in reverse engineering, programming, and network analysis. Gaining experience with tools like disassemblers, debuggers, and sandbox environments is essential, and certifications such as GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) can enhance credibility. Continuous learning about emerging threats and malware techniques is crucial in this specialized field.
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:
What job categories do people searching Malware Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Malware Researcher jobs are:
Infographic showing various Malware Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Malware Analyst with Security Clearance

Malware Analyst with Security Clearance

Peraton

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 213 rated it services


Job description

About Peraton Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees solve the most daunting challenges that our customers face. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure. About The Role Peraton is currently seeking to hire an experienced Malware Analyst for the USCYBERCOM program. Location: On-site at Fort Meade, MD. In this role you will: * Represent USCYBERCOM to provide requirements and integration support for malware analysis. * Analyze and understand the behavior of malware using dynamic malware analysis and reverse engineering techniques. * Create in-depth malware reports to aid in the identification and mitigation of future cyber threats. * Support malware analysis efforts required for the delivery of Mission Assurance (MA) products as part of the effort to facilitate, evaluate, and report on malware in support of cyberspace operations.
* Provide updates and report on the status of assigned Workflow Management System (WMS) malware tasks and participate in technical working groups and discussions to influence recommendations to malware analysis and exploitation strategy.
* Participate and facilitate System Security Plan (SSP) development and certification and accreditation support for new malware analysis systems.As a Malware Analyst you should: * Possess mid-to-senior level experience as a Malware Analyst with a background in cutting-edge cyberspace technologies.
* Apply knowledge on subjects relating to the conduct of Malware Analysis activities through governance, policy oversight, and business practices.
* Work under consultative direction toward predetermined Mission Assurance goals and objectives; assignments are often self-initiated.
* Develop, research, and maintain proficiency in tools, techniques, countermeasures, and trends in computer and network vulnerabilities, data hiding, and encryption.
* Perform in-depth detailed research of software and methodologies to build defensive and offensive technical capabilities for USCYBERCOM.
* Perform system analysis, reverse engineering, and best practice malware analytics methodologies and analysis on Windows, Android, or UNIX-based platforms.
* Possess comprehensive knowledge of programming skills:including C/C++ and Assembly language, Windows internal C/C++ and either UNIX/Linux or mobile (Android) platform, vulnerability analysis, exploit development, and related disciplines.
* Create malware detection topologies; conduct vulnerability assessments/penetration tests of information systems.#COSS Qualifications Required: * Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, or related discipline.
* Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience as a Malware Analyst or Engineer.
* A minimum of DoD 8140/DoD 8570 IAM Level II Certification; or CSSP Incident Responder; or CSSP Infrastructure Support.
* U.S. citizenship required.
* Active TS/SCI with Poly security clearance.Desired Qualifications: * Understanding of source code, hex, binary, regular expression, data correlation, and analysis such as firewall, network flow, and system logs
* Familiar with security concepts, protocols, processes, architectures, and tools (authentication and access control technologies, incident handling, etc).
* Ability to develop and analyze Defensive Cyberspace Operations (DCO), Computer Network Exploitation (CNE), and Offensive Cyberspace Operations (OCO) solutions.
* Demonstrated strength in attention to detail and organizational skills.Benefits: Peraton offers enhanced benefits to employees working on this critical National Security program, which include heavily subsidized employee benefits coverage for you and your dependents, 25 days of PTO accrued annually up to a generous PTO cap and participation in an attractive bonus plan. Details Target Salary Range: $112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits. Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. EEO:Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017