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Reverse Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

STR

Software Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

They are hiring a Software Reverse Engineer who will be responsible for reverse engineering complex software and firmware, developing automated tools, and solving real-world problems impacting ...

Closure Technologies

Reverse Engineer

Chantilly, VA

You are a reverse engineer that decompiles malicious code. You know how to spot the "evil" and not fall for the deceptive code written by hackers to throw you off their trail. You have the skills to ...

STR

Software Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA

$112K - $154K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

STR

Software Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

Nightwing

Security Product Reverse Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking an experienced Security Product Reverse Engineer (RE) to support advanced security research and development efforts. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in reverse ...

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All JobsReverse Engineer JobsReverse Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Reverse Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$81.3K

$135.1K

$193.3K

How much do reverse engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for reverse engineer in Virginia is $135,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,200.00 and $176,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reverse engineer?

A reverse engineer is a software developer or programmer who specializes in analyzing software to figure out the code base of a program. The tools and techniques they use are helpful in trying to identify and exploit weaknesses in a product’s source code, developing solutions to security holes, and recreating proprietary functionality from a competitor’s product. As a reverse engineer, your job duties include studying and analyzing software programs and online applications, using developer tools to parse code, and creating quality solutions.

What is a reverse engineer?

A reverse engineer is a professional who analyzes hardware or software systems to understand their design, functionality, and operation. They often work to identify vulnerabilities, recreate proprietary technologies, or ensure compatibility with other systems. Reverse engineers use specialized tools and techniques to deconstruct and study products, which is especially common in cybersecurity, software development, and electronics. Their work helps improve security, troubleshoot issues, and sometimes develop new innovations based on existing products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reverse engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reverse Engineer, you need expertise in computer programming, software debugging, and a solid understanding of operating systems and low-level software architecture, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, and knowledge of assembly languages are commonly required, with certifications such as CEH or OSCP adding value. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and perseverance are crucial soft skills for analyzing complex systems and uncovering hidden functionalities. These skills ensure accurate, efficient analysis of software for security assessments, malware analysis, and intellectual property protection.

What are some common challenges faced by reverse engineers when working on proprietary software or hardware?

Reverse engineers often encounter challenges such as obfuscated code, lack of documentation, and anti-tamper mechanisms designed to prevent analysis. Working with proprietary systems can require extensive problem-solving and persistence to understand undocumented protocols or custom algorithms. Collaboration with security analysts and developers is common, especially when identifying vulnerabilities or developing interoperability solutions. Staying up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques is crucial, as software protections continually evolve.

What is the difference between Reverse Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectReverse EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in Computer Science or related field; strong understanding of programming and systemsDegree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; programming skills essential
Work EnvironmentOften in cybersecurity, security firms, or R&D; may involve analyzing proprietary or legacy softwareIn software companies, tech startups, or IT departments; developing new applications and systems
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in cybersecurity, software analysis, and malware investigationUsed across tech, finance, healthcare, and many other industries for product development

While both roles require strong programming skills and a background in computer science, Reverse Engineers focus on analyzing existing software, often for security or compatibility purposes. Software Developers create new software solutions. The roles differ mainly in their objectives and work environments, but share foundational technical skills.

More about Reverse Engineer jobs

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The most popular types of Reverse Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

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Reverse Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reverse Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $135,117 per year, or $65 per hour.

Software Reverse Engineer

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
STR is a growing technology company specializing in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security. They are hiring a Software Reverse Engineer who will be responsible for reverse engineering complex software and firmware, developing automated tools, and solving real-world problems impacting national security.
Responsibilities:
• Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems
• Developing and applying automated reverse engineering and binary analysis tools to characterize protocols, interfaces, and functionality of target systems
• Developing innovative cybersecurity solutions
• Working in multi-discipline teams to tackle challenging problems from a wide variety of technologies to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions
• Performing vulnerability weaponization, exploit development, payload development, and exploit mitigation on a variety of challenging targets
• Documenting, demonstrating, and presenting research
• Solving real world problems that have an impact on national security
Qualifications:
Required:
• Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by the U.S. Government
• BS, MS or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity or related field (or equivalent work experience)
• Experience with binary analysis of software/firmware
• Experience with disassembly tools, such as IDA Pro, Binary Ninja, or Ghidra
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages: C/C++, Python, etc.
• Proficiency in one or more Assembly Languages: x86, ARM, etc.
• General understanding of reverse engineering fundamentals: memory layout, calling conventions, etc.
Preferred:
• Vulnerability research and analysis
• Knowledge of weaponizing discovered vulnerabilities into exploits
• Implant or software patch development
• Familiarity with binary emulation or vulnerability research, including tools such as QEMU or AFL++
• Experience with DSP architectures, such as Texas Instruments, STMicroelectronics, NXP, or Analog Devices.
• Knowledge of operating system internals including memory/process/thread management
• Embedded systems or firmware analysis
• Experience development custom emulation tools to enable dynamic analysis
• Disassembler/decompiler module development
• Experience analyzing and reconstructing code/data flow
• Automated reverse engineering or software analysis tool development
• Experience debugging software without source code
• Knowledge of binary file structures and formats
• Experience analyzing protocols or message structures
• Knowledge of anti-reverse engineering techniques
• Knowledge of intrusion detection and anti-malware systems and techniques
Company:
STR is built on people & technology platforms tackling tough problems in cybersecurity, distributed sensing & artificial. Founded in 2010, the company is headquartered in Woburn, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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