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Reverse Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Mobile Reverse Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Mobile Software Reverse Engineering (with support to development and malware analysis efforts). * Background: Conduct software exploitation against applications, middleware, operating systems (OS ...

Senior Principal Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$144K - $199K/yr

The Subject Matter Expert Hardware Reverse Engineers will provide specialized expertise in hardware reverse engineering focused on operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems.

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 Principal Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$144K - $199K/yr

The Subject Matter Expert Hardware Reverse Engineers will provide specialized expertise in hardware reverse engineering focused on operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems. This ...

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 ...

Steely is looking for a like-minded individual to join our team as a Reverse Engineer . Our Team embraces the concept that the sky's the limit. Regardless of where you are at in your career, our goal ...

Steely is looking for a like-minded individual to join our team as a Reverse Engineer . Our Team embraces the concept that the sky's the limit. Regardless of where you are at in your career, our goal ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 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.

Will AI replace reverse engineering?

AI can assist reverse engineers by automating certain tasks like pattern recognition and code analysis, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Reverse engineering requires critical thinking, understanding complex systems, and adapting to new challenges, which currently rely on human expertise and specialized skills. Professionals in this field often use tools like disassemblers and debuggers alongside AI to improve efficiency.

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 high-demand fields such as software engineering, data engineering, and specialized roles like machine learning engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in competitive industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant growth potential.

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 compatibility solutions, or improve security, and requires 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 like technology or finance. Roles often require expertise in programming, cloud platforms, or cybersecurity, along with relevant certifications and leadership responsibilities.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,785 per year, or $68.2 per hour.
Hardware Reverse Engineer

Hardware Reverse Engineer

Two Six Technologies

Arlington, VA • On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

At Two Six Technologies, we build, deploy, and implement innovative products that solve the world's most complex challenges today. Through unrivaled collaboration and unwavering trust, we push the boundaries of what's possible to empower our team and support our customers in building a safer global future.
Overview of Opportunity
Join the Trusted Electronics & Effects business unit of Two Six Technologies-a team of innovative engineers and reverse engineers in Arlington, Virginia-where you'll dive into groundbreaking research on advanced embedded systems and architectures. Working with technologies like processor modules, digital boards, and high-speed signals, you'll deconstruct physical hardware, extract firmware, identify vulnerabilities, and push the boundaries of what's possible in embedded system security. Collaborating closely with top-tier hardware engineers and security researchers, you'll help tackle some of the toughest challenges in the field.
Our growing roster of government customers depends on us to deliver cutting-edge security solutions. We're looking for a skilled Hardware Reverse Engineer to help drive our mission forward. If you're passionate about solving complex challenges and making a tangible impact on national security, we want you on our team.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Reverse engineer and analyze complex embedded systems designs to identify functional behaviors and facilitate deeper vulnerability analysis.
  • Identify and exploit key system components, including communication channels and firmware memory.
  • Conduct vulnerability research on hardened systems and architectures.
  • Draft technical reports related to the function, characteristics, and any potential vulnerabilities of the assessed hardware and firmware.
  • Rapidly prototype innovative technologies to analyze and exploit target systems.
  • Reconstruct schematics from physical boards and develop hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) environments to test and emulate device behavior
  • Conduct protocol and signals analysis utilizing oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and logic analyzers.
  • Contribute to a diverse range of research and development projects focused on embedded system security.
  • Isolate areas of interest in complex systems with precision and efficiency.

What you will have(Basic Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Equivalent practical experience in security research, reverse engineering, vulnerability research, or exploit development may substitute for a degree.
  • Extensive hands on experience with the following:
    • Experience developing on embedded systems such as high speed data devices, or system-on-modules.
    • Experience analyzing and reverse engineering binaries (x86/ARM/AVR)
    • Debugging embedded systems using tools such as JTAG, UART, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers.
    • Developing and integrating bootloaders for embedded systems.
    • Creating wiring diagrams and schematics.
    • Programming in C, C++, and Python.
    • Development targeting AMD/Xilinx, Altera, or Microsemi FPGA devices.

Nice if you Have (Preferred):
  • Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience as part of small R&D teams composed of researchers, engineers, and scientists.
  • Custom PCB development experience with tools such as Altium.
  • Knowledge of RF protocols and systems.
  • Experience with Layer 1 and Layer 2 wired and wireless protocols, such as USB, SPI/I2C/1-Wire, Ethernet, PCI-Express, 802.11, and Bluetooth/ZigBee.
  • Hacking experience on IoT products.
  • Demonstrated experience managing and leading technical employees and engineering teams.

Security Clearance:
  • Active U.S. security clearance at the Top Secret level, with the ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI clearance.

#LI-ZS1
#LI-ONSITE
Two Six Technologies is committed to providing competitive and comprehensive compensation packages that reflect the value we place on our employees and their contributions. We believe in rewarding skills, experience, and performance. Our offerings include but are not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, tuition assistance and professional development.
The projected salary range listed for this position is annualized. This is a general guideline and not a guarantee of salary. Salary is one component of our total compensation package and the specific salary offered is determined by various factors, including, but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, skills, geographic location, as well as contract specific affordability and organizational requirements.
Salary Range
$134,731-$202,096 USD
Looking for other great opportunities? Check out Two Six Technologies Opportunities for all our Company's current openings!
Ready to make the first move towards growing your career? If so, check out the Two Six Technologies Candidate Journey! This will give you step-by-step directions on applying, what to expect during the application process, information about our rich benefits and perks along with our most frequently asked questions. If you are undecided and would like to learn more about us and how we are contributing to essential missions, check out our Two Six Technologies News page! We share information about the tech world around us and how we are making an impact! Still have questions, no worries! You can reach us at Contact Two Six Technologies. We are happy to connect and cover the information needed to assist you in reaching your next career milestone.
Two Six Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture, hair type and protective hair styles (e.g., braids, twists, locs and twists)), color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions and lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age (40 and over), marital status, disability, genetic information, and protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. For more information review the Two Six Technologies Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Policy and the EEO Poster.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request reasonable workplace accommodation for any part of our employment process, please send an email to accommodations@twosixtech.com. Information provided will be kept confidential and used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Additionally, please be advised that this business uses E-Verify in its hiring practices.
By submitting the following application, I hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge, the information provided is true and accurate.