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Reverse Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cmu

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

Reverse engineer malicious code in support of high-impact customers, design and develop new analysis methods and tools, work to identify and address emerging and complex threats, and effectively ...

Closure Technologies

Reverse Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Closure Technologies is seeking a Reverse Engineer to analyze and decompile malicious code. The role involves examining emerging nefarious technologies and conducting in-depth analysis of malware ...

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 · On-site

They are seeking a Software Reverse Engineer to analyze vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems and develop innovative cybersecurity solutions. Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex ...

STR

Software Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

They are seeking a Software Reverse Engineer to engage in vulnerability research and analysis, reverse engineering of complex systems, and developing innovative cybersecurity solutions.

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 ...

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

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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Reverse Engineer information

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$81.3K

$135.1K

$193.3K

How much do reverse engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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

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

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

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

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

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Cities in Virginia with the most Reverse Engineer job openings:

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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 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $135,117 per year, or $65 per hour.

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Carnegie Mellon University

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Summary:
Carnegie Mellon University is a leading research institution, and they are seeking a Reverse Engineer Researcher to join their CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute. The role involves reverse engineering malicious code, developing new analysis methods and tools, and participating in the broader security community to address emerging and complex threats.
Responsibilities:
• Reverse engineer malicious code in support of high-impact customers, design and develop new analysis methods and tools, work to identify and address emerging and complex threats, and effectively participate in the broader security community
• Perform in-depth reverse engineering of malicious code, document and transition results in reports, presentations, and technical exchanges
• Explore ways to use artificial intelligence to support of reverse engineering and apply reverse engineering practices to artificial intelligence systems
• Design, prototype, and transition new analysis methods and tools
• Identify and document emerging and complex active security threats
• Participate in the broader security community through collaboration, papers, and presentations
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS in Computer Science or related discipline with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience.
• Enjoy working on emerging and complex malware analysis and reverse engineering problems.
• Have an analytical mindset and deep curiosity about how software works.
• Ability to balance rapid prototyping with maintainable tool development.
• Strong technical writing experience.
• Recognize and deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive information.
• Able to handle continual shifting priorities.
• Enjoy mentoring and training others as well as sharing knowledge.
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.
• Willingness to travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission including sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion. Moderate Travel (15%)
• Subject to a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.
• Experience with or knowledge of reverse engineering software binaries for a variety of architectures, both at the user level and kernel level.
• Experience with static analysis tools (e.g. IDA Pro, NSA Ghidra, Binary Ninja).
• Experience with user-level and kernel-level debuggers (e.g. x32dbg, x64dbg, gdb, WinDbg).
• Experience with native programming languages (e.g. C/C++).
• Experience with high-level programming languages (e.g. Java, Python, GoLang, etc.).
• Knowledge of software engineering and design concepts.
• Experience with firmware and device driver development.
• Knowledge of malware tradecraft and threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
• Experience with malware signature creation and use, independent of detection technology.
• Knowledge of operating system concepts and internals and binary file formats (e.g. PE, ELF, Mach-O, etc.).
• Experience with Internet Protocols and network analysis tools (e.g. Wireshark, netcat, etc.).
• Knowledge of compiler theory, cryptography, and malware deobfuscation techniques.
• Experience with mobile device development and reverse engineering.
• Experience with malware sandboxes or instrumentation frameworks (e.g., Frida, QEMU, Unicorn Engine).
• General understanding and experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning and using artificial intelligence to support reverse engineering and malware analysis.
Company:
Carnegie Mellon University is a research university offering programs and research across engineering, science, arts, and business. Founded in 1900, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 5001-10000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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