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Reverse Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

They are hiring a Senior Reverse Engineer to analyze vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems, develop automated tools, and work on offensive cyber solutions. Responsibilities : • Reverse ...

Reverse Engineer TS/SCI

Centreville, VA · On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

Are you ready to take your reverse engineering (RE) and embedded development skills to the next level? Do you want to work on mission-critical projects that make a real difference while continuing to ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Reverse Engineer to analyze vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems and develop offensive cyber solutions, working within multi-discipline teams to address complex ...

Hardware Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $187K/yr

They are seeking a Hardware Reverse Engineer to analyze embedded systems, identify vulnerabilities, and contribute to security solutions for government customers. Responsibilities : • Reverse ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/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

SME Hardware Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $187K/yr

The ideal candidates will have strong reverse engineering skills and deep understanding of threat actor methodologies targeting critical infrastructure. Eligibility: * Must be a  US Citizen * Must ...

SME Hardware Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $187K/yr

The ideal candidates will have strong reverse engineering skills and deep understanding of threat actor methodologies targeting critical infrastructure. Eligibility: * Must be a US Citizen * Must ...

SME Hardware Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $187K/yr

The ideal candidates will have strong reverse engineering skills and deep understanding of threat actor methodologies targeting critical infrastructure. Eligibility: * Must be a  US Citizen * Must ...

SME Hardware Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $187K/yr

The ideal candidates will have strong reverse engineering skills and deep understanding of threat actor methodologies targeting critical infrastructure. Eligibility: * Must be a US Citizen * Must ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/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

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/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

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Reverse Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$85.3K

$141.8K

$202.9K

How much do reverse engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for reverse engineer in Reston, VA is $141,785.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,600.00 and $185,200.00 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 jobs use reverse engineering?

Reverse engineering is used in roles such as cybersecurity analysts, software developers, malware analysts, and hardware engineers. These professionals analyze software, hardware, or systems to identify vulnerabilities, understand how they work, or develop compatible products, often using tools like disassemblers and debuggers.

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.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries like technology or finance. Executive or lead engineering roles often include such compensation levels, particularly when combined with bonuses and stock options.

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 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 does a Reverse Engineer do?

A reverse engineer analyzes software, hardware, or systems to understand their design and functionality, often by deconstructing or examining code and components. This process helps identify vulnerabilities, develop security measures, or improve products, requiring skills in programming, debugging, and specialized tools like disassemblers or debuggers.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, and systems architecture can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or companies. Roles often require expertise in programming, cloud platforms, or cybersecurity, along with relevant certifications and leadership responsibilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reverse Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Reverse Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Reverse Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Reverse Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reverse Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Reverse Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Reverse Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Reverse Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Reverse Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,785 per year, or $68.2 per hour.
Senior Reverse Engineer

Senior Reverse Engineer

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


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 Senior Reverse Engineer to analyze vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems, develop automated tools, and work on offensive cyber solutions.
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
• Working in multi-discipline teams to develop innovative offensive cyber solutions to challenging problems from a wide variety of technologies
• 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:
• The ability to obtain an Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by the U.S. Government
• Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity or related field plus a minimum of 5 years relevant experience (MS or PhD with equivalent work experience may also be considered)
• 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.