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Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Bancorp

Lead Threat Hunter

Chicago, IL · On-site

Malware reverse engineering skills. * Expertise with incident response frameworks. * Experience in the financial sector. * SANS, CHFI, OSCP or similar certification. This role requires working from a ...

U.S. Bank

Lead Threat Hunter

Chicago, IL · On-site

Malware reverse engineering skills. * Expertise with incident response frameworks. * Experience in the financial sector. * SANS, CHFI, OSCP or similar certification. This role requires working from a ...

US Bank

Lead Threat Hunter

Chicago, IL · On-site

Malware reverse engineering skills. * Expertise with incident response frameworks. * Experience in the financial sector. * SANS, CHFI, OSCP or similar certification. This role requires working from a ...

Peraton

Manager, Technology Program Management

Virginia, IL · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

Understanding of malware analysis concepts and reverse engineering fundamentals * Knowledge of chain of custody requirements and forensic evidence handling standards * Proven ability to lead, mentor ...

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Malware Reverse Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$79.5K

$132.1K

$189K

How much do malware reverse engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for malware reverse engineer in Illinois is $132,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,200.00 and $172,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a malware reverse engineer do?

A Malware Reverse Engineer analyzes malicious software to understand its functionality, origin, and potential impact. They use tools like debuggers, disassemblers, and virtual environments to deconstruct malware and identify vulnerabilities or attack patterns. Their work helps in developing security defenses, creating detection signatures, and improving incident response. This role requires strong knowledge of programming, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a malware reverse engineer?

To thrive as a Malware Reverse Engineer, you need strong expertise in reverse engineering, assembly language, and programming, often backed by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and experience with malware analysis. Familiarity with tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, and relevant certifications like GREM or OSCP is highly valued. Analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and clear written communication are important soft skills in this field. These skills ensure accurate identification, dissection, and documentation of malicious code, supporting effective threat response and mitigation.

What are some typical challenges faced by malware reverse engineers in their daily work?

Malware Reverse Engineers frequently encounter highly complex or obfuscated malware designed to resist analysis, which can make the process both time-consuming and mentally demanding. Staying ahead of constantly evolving attack techniques requires ongoing learning and adaptability. The role often involves collaborating with incident response teams, threat intelligence analysts, and security researchers to provide clear, actionable insights on emerging threats. Successfully overcoming these challenges is critical for protecting organizational assets and staying current with the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape.

Can you reverse engineer malware?

A malware reverse engineer analyzes malicious software to understand its behavior, techniques, and purpose. This process involves using specialized tools like disassemblers and debuggers and requires strong knowledge of programming, assembly language, and cybersecurity principles.

How much do malware reverse engineers make?

Malware reverse engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior professionals with specialized skills in reverse engineering tools and techniques can earn higher salaries, especially in cybersecurity-focused roles or with certifications like GREM or OSCP.

What are the most commonly searched types of Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Malware Reverse Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Malware Reverse Engineer job openings:

Malware Reverse Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Malware Reverse Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,064 per year, or $63.5 per hour.

Jr Malware Engineer / Active Secret Clearance

Peraton

Virginia, IL • On-site

$85 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 224 rated it services

Job description

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of relevant technical experience, or a Master's degree with 3+ years of experience.

    • An additional 4 years of experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.



  • Experience analyzing malicious applications across multiple platforms, including Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and IoT devices.

  • Familiarity with tools such as:

    • Process Explorer, CFF Explorer, Wireshark, Fiddler, Regshot, Process Monitor, Process Hacker



  • Demonstrated strong understanding of reverse-engineering methodologies and file reconstruction.

  • Ability to unpack, de-obfuscate, and analyze highly complex malicious applications.

  • Hands-on debugging experience, including identifying and defeating custom or known packers.

  • Experience with disassemblers and disassembly workflows.

  • U.S. citizenship required.

  • Active Secret Clearance with the ability to obtain TS/SCI.

    • Ability to obtain and maintain a DHS EOD background investigation.




Preferred Qualifications:

  • Programming knowledge in one or more of the following:

    • Java, C, C++, .NET, PowerShell, Golang, C#



  • Familiarity with ...


Peraton is currently hiring for a Junior Malware Reverse Engineer role with its' Federal Strategic Cyber group.


Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid - On-site/Remote: 50/50). Local candidates able to work in a hybrid environment required.


About the Role:

  • As a Junior Malware Reverse Engineer, you'll work hands-on with malicious binaries, support active cyber operations, and contribute to defensive strategies that protect critical government systems.

  • This position requires local candidates able to work in a hybrid environment and report on-site as mission needs dictate.


What You'll Do

  • Analyze, isolate, and reverse-engineer malicious binaries to determine behavior, functionality, and capabilities.

  • Conduct static and dynamic analysis of malware samples across multiple operating systems.

  • Produce detailed technical reports outlining findings, characteristics, and threat implications.

  • Support ongoing cyber operations with timely malware insights and assessments.

  • Recommend countermeasures and mitigation strategies for malware and exploitation techniques targeting government communication systems.

  • Reverse-engineer known and suspected malware files to support incident response and threat-hunting activities.

  • Develop and refine policies, procedures, and methodologies for malware investigations across diverse networks.


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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

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