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Salaried Exploit Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MAXISIQ, Inc.

Software Engineer V

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Lead and manage task order personnel conducting vulnerability and exploit development for mobile ... Competitive salary commensurate with your cyber warfare experience * Employer-subsidized health ...

MAXISIQ

Software Engineer 4

Chantilly, VA

... exploit development. Top secret clearance with the ability to obtain a CI Poly is required ... Competitive salary commensurate with experience * Employer-subsidized health insurance * 401k match ...

MAXISIQ, Inc.

Software Engineer V

Chantilly, VA

Lead and manage task order personnel conducting vulnerability and exploit development for mobile ... Competitive salary commensurate with your cyber warfare experience * Employer-subsidized health ...

MAXISIQ, Inc.

Software Engineer 4

Chantilly, VA

... exploit development. Top secret clearance with the ability to obtain a CI Poly is required ... Competitive salary commensurate with experience * Employer-subsidized health insurance * 401k match ...

MAXISIQ, Inc.

Software Engineer 4

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... exploit development. Top secret clearance with the ability to obtain a CI Poly is required ... Competitive salary commensurate with experience * Employer-subsidized health insurance * 401k match ...

MAXISIQ, Inc.

Software Engineer 4

Chantilly, VA

... exploit development. Top secret clearance with the ability to obtain a CI Poly is required ... Competitive salary commensurate with experience * Employer-subsidized health insurance * 401k match ...

M9 Solutions

Windows CNE Developer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Background in vulnerability research, exploit development, or malware development. * Scripting ... M9 Benefits - Salary Range $180,000-$250,000 USD M9 Solutions, LLC (M9) is a Federal sub-contractor ...

M9 Solutions

Windows CNO Developer

Herndon, VA

$180K - $250K/yr

Background in vulnerability research, exploit development, or malware development. * Scripting ... M9 Benefits - Salary Range $180,000 - $250,000 USD M9 Solutions, LLC (M9) is a Federal sub ...

stanleyreid

CNO Developer - 10% 401k - FS Poly

Reston, VA · On-site

$131K - $180K/yr

They demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being with industry-leading salaries ... exploit development -Familiarity with embedded systems The work is located in Reston, VA and ...

M9 Solutions

Windows CNO Developer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Background in vulnerability research, exploit development, or malware development. * Scripting ... M9 Benefits - Salary Range $180,000-$250,000 USD M9 Solutions, LLC (M9) is a Federal sub-contractor ...

M9 Solutions

Windows CNE Developer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Background in vulnerability research, exploit development, or malware development. * Scripting ... M9 Benefits - Salary Range $180,000 - $250,000 USD M9 Solutions, LLC (M9) is a Federal sub ...

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Salaried Exploit Development information

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How much do salaried exploit development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for salaried exploit development in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges encountered by professionals in salaried exploit development roles?

Professionals in salaried exploit development roles often face challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving security technologies and patch cycles. They must continuously research new vulnerabilities and develop creative solutions to bypass updated security mechanisms, which can be highly demanding. Collaborating closely with security analysts and other developers is essential to ensure responsible disclosure and risk management. Additionally, balancing project deadlines with the need for meticulous testing and documentation can be a significant challenge in this field.

What is the difference between Salaried Exploit Development vs Penetration Tester?

AspectSalaried Exploit DevelopmentPenetration Tester
CredentialsSecurity certifications, programming skillsSecurity certifications, testing experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, security firms, internal teamsClient sites, corporate environments, consulting firms
Industry UsageCybersecurity, offensive securityCybersecurity, vulnerability assessment

Salaried Exploit Developers focus on creating and testing exploits for security research or defensive purposes, often working in labs or R&D settings. Penetration Testers simulate attacks to identify vulnerabilities in client systems. While both roles require security knowledge and technical skills, Exploit Developers primarily develop exploits, whereas Penetration Testers perform assessments and reporting. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in cybersecurity.

What is a Salaried Exploit Developer?

A Salaried Exploit Developer is a cybersecurity professional who is employed by an organization to research, identify, and develop software exploits—ways to take advantage of vulnerabilities in computer systems or applications. Unlike freelance or independent security researchers, salaried exploit developers work as part of a security team, often within penetration testing firms, defense contractors, or tech companies. Their work can involve both offensive (discovering vulnerabilities to test defenses) and defensive (helping to patch or mitigate vulnerabilities) tasks. These roles require strong programming skills, a deep understanding of operating systems, and knowledge of security protocols. Salaried Exploit Developers may also be involved in responsible disclosure of vulnerabilities to affected vendors.

What is the best language for exploit development?

For a salaried exploit development role, C and C++ are the most commonly used languages due to their low-level access and performance capabilities. Assembly language is also important for writing and understanding exploits at the hardware level. Knowledge of scripting languages like Python can aid in automation and testing of exploits.

What is the highest paying developer job?

Salaried exploit development roles, which involve creating and testing security exploits, tend to be among the highest paying developer jobs in cybersecurity, especially for professionals with advanced skills in reverse engineering, vulnerability research, and programming. These positions often require specialized knowledge, certifications, and a strong understanding of operating systems and security protocols, with salaries reaching six figures or more depending on experience and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Salaried Exploit Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Salaried Exploit Developer, you need deep expertise in computer science, reverse engineering, vulnerability analysis, and low-level programming, often backed by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, debuggers, and operating system internals is crucial, and certifications such as OSCP or OSCE can be advantageous. Creativity, persistence, and strong problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These qualifications are essential for identifying, developing, and responsibly handling software exploits in a secure and ethical manner.

What jobs can hackers get?

Hackers with skills in cybersecurity, penetration testing, and exploit development can pursue roles such as security analyst, penetration tester, security engineer, or ethical hacker. These jobs often require knowledge of programming, network protocols, and security tools, and may involve certifications like CEH or OSCP. Ethical hacking roles focus on identifying vulnerabilities to improve system security within legal and organizational boundaries.
More about Salaried Exploit Development jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Exploit Development jobs? The most popular types of Exploit Development jobs are:
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Salaried Exploit Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Salaried Exploit Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Software Engineer V

MAXISIQ, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Since 2006, MAXISIQ has advanced the state of Cyber RDT&E by bringing together industry expertise in software, hardware, communications and security, and leveraging decades of operational experience to deliver exceptional value to communities and the critical missions they support. Join MAXISIQ, develop smarter solutions, technologies, services, and actionable capabilities for our clients- right when they need it most.
Job Description
The Software Engineer Level 5 will serve as a subject matter expert leading advanced technical efforts to analyze, assess, develop, and deploy vulnerabilities and exploits for devices utilizing Apple iOS and Google Android (and variant) operating systems. This position will be based in Quantico, Virginia, with an expected relocation to Huntsville, Alabama in December 2027. The role will be available upon contract award, anticipated around May 16, 2026. The selected engineer will direct the technical work of assigned personnel, provide expert guidance in vulnerability research and exploit development, and ensure deliverables meet government and mission partner requirements. The role may involve occasional travel with Government staff to evaluate vendor-provided vulnerabilities and exploits and participation in collaborative sessions with allied intelligence services and corporate partners. Top secret clearance with the ability to obtain a CI Poly is required.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage task order personnel conducting vulnerability and exploit development for mobile platforms.
  • Perform detailed analysis, assessment, and deployment of vulnerabilities and exploits for Apple iOS, Google Android, and related operating systems.
  • Apply expertise in reverse engineering and vulnerability research to identify and exploit system weaknesses.
  • Provide technical evaluation and guidance during meetings with external partners and government stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with intelligence partners and commercial entities through joint development meetings and technical workshops.

Required Experience
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in vulnerability research, reverse engineering, or an equivalent computer security field.
  • Demonstrated programming proficiency in security-oriented environments.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of mobile and desktop operating systems.
  • Proven experience leading development teams focused on Apple iOS, Google Android, and their variants.

Qualifications
Required Education
Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields from an accredited university or college:
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Engineering
  • Software Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Computer and Information Security (INFOSEC)
  • Computer Security
  • Network Administration

Additional Considerations
  • The Government may substitute additional education, training, certifications, or work experience in lieu of degree or specific experience requirements.
  • Peer-reviewed academic publications in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer and Information Security, Computer Security, Computer Forensics, Information Sys

Additional Information
Benefits of Joining Our Ranks
  • Competitive salary commensurate with your cyber warfare experience
  • Employer-subsidized health insurance
  • 401k match to secure your future
  • Generous paid time off for R&R
  • Time off for volunteering missions
  • Health membership reimbursement to keep you in top form
  • Support for professional development and advanced training

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. #CJ
At MAXISIQ, inclusion drives innovation. We are committed to creating a diverse and equitable workplace where all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

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