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Security Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Intern, Security Research Engineer

Herndon, VA

$29 - $53.50/hr

Security Research Engineer Intern Job Code: 42765 Job Location:Herndon, VA Job Schedule: 9/80:Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday of * Apply ...

Cmu

Network Security Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

Transition of this research will take the form of developing detection capabilities, providing new requirements and feature requests for our NetSA Security tool suite, writing publications, and ...

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Security Research information

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$47

$51

$53

How much do security research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for security research in Virginia is $51.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.33 and $52.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is security research?

Security research is the process of studying, analyzing, and developing methods to identify and address vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and software. Security researchers investigate potential threats, discover security flaws, and often create proof-of-concept exploits to demonstrate risks. Their work helps organizations understand emerging threats and improve their defenses, often contributing to the wider cybersecurity community by sharing findings and best practices.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in security research roles?

Security Researchers often encounter the challenge of keeping up with rapidly evolving threats and technologies. The field demands continuous learning, as new vulnerabilities and attack vectors emerge regularly. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as software engineers and incident response, is essential to translate research findings into practical defenses. Additionally, Security Researchers must balance thorough analysis with the need to quickly communicate critical findings to stakeholders, ensuring organizational security remains robust.

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

To thrive as a Security Researcher, you need a solid background in computer science, cybersecurity principles, and vulnerability analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like OSCP or CEH. Expertise with tools such as IDA Pro, Wireshark, Metasploit, and reverse engineering platforms is typically required. Critical thinking, curiosity, and strong written communication are essential soft skills for investigating threats and sharing findings. These competencies enable Security Researchers to identify, analyze, and mitigate security risks in an evolving threat landscape.

What is the difference between Security Research vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity ResearchSecurity Analyst
CredentialsCertifications like CISSP, GIAC, OSCP often preferredCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH common
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, cybersecurity firms, R&D teamsSecurity operations centers, corporate IT departments
Industry UsageUsed in threat discovery, vulnerability research, developing security toolsUsed in monitoring, incident response, security monitoring

Security Research and Security Analysts both play vital roles in cybersecurity. While Security Researchers focus on discovering vulnerabilities and developing new security techniques, Security Analysts monitor systems for threats and respond to incidents. Both roles often require similar certifications and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How do you become a security researcher?

To become a security researcher, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field, and develop skills in programming, network analysis, and vulnerability assessment. Gaining experience through internships, participating in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, and obtaining certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) can also enhance prospects in this field.

What do security researchers do?

Security researchers analyze computer systems, networks, and software to identify vulnerabilities and develop ways to protect against cyber threats. They often use tools like penetration testing, reverse engineering, and security analysis, and may hold certifications such as CISSP or CEH. Their work helps improve cybersecurity defenses and prevent cyberattacks.

What are popular job titles related to Security Research jobs in Virginia?

For Security Research jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Research jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Research jobs in Virginia are:

Security Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,082 per year, or $51 per hour.

Director, Spectrum Dominance & National Security Research

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT)

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Description

The Virginia Tech National Security Institute (VTNSI) was formed in 2021 with the aspiration to become the nation’s preeminent academic organization at the nexus of interdisciplinary research, technology, policy, and talent development to advance national security. VTNSI is a national leader in advancing security and resilience through innovative and applied research, empowering the next generation of experts, and building strategic alliances to address evolving national security challenges. It encompasses three research divisions—Intelligent Systems, Mission Systems, and Spectrum Dominance—alongside the Ted and Karyn Hume Center for National Security and Technology. The Director of the Spectrum Dominance Division is responsible for overall leadership of division personnel, students, programs, and research direction, and is a member of VTNSI’s executive leadership team.

Responsibilities
  • Identify and impact new funding opportunities as early in the program development cycle as possible.
  • Work with institute faculty and the executive leadership team to develop strategies for sustainment and growth of research and experiential learning programs, along with agency specific engagement strategies.
  • Serve as principal and co‑principal investigator on proposals and awarded grants and contracts.
  • Support student mentorship and research on awarded programs by conducting basic and applied research, authoring technical documents and presentations, and publishing peer‑reviewed papers.
  • Support faculty mentorship on business development and program execution.
  • Have ultimate responsibility for the division budget, including ensuring that overhead labor expenditures and operating costs are within budget.
  • Manage research activities of undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other research faculty for which the individual serves as principal investigator.
  • Serve as the line supervisor for researchers in the division.
Required Qualifications
  • Doctoral degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated record of research leadership, excellence, and impact in areas relevant to radio frequency communications.
  • Track record of building and growing research portfolios, establishing long‑term sponsor partnerships, and securing competitive funding.
  • Proven success leading sponsored research programs as Principal Investigator, including delivery of results to defense, intelligence, or other national security sponsors.
  • U.S. citizenship and active Secret clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.
  • Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Extensive, progressively responsible, research leadership experience in government, industry, academia, or non‑profit settings.
  • Experience mentoring and developing faculty, researchers, and students in interdisciplinary environments.
  • Recognized reputation for integrity, innovation, and thought leadership within the national security research community.
  • Experience managing budgets, employee levels of effort, and managing adequate staffing across multiple programs.
  • Strong connections across the national security research community, including government agencies, industry, and academia.
  • Capability to perform hands‑on mentorship for both students and faculty and execution of programs and leading by example.
  • Experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in technical disciplines.
  • Experience working with graduate students in completing their degree requirements.
Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Starting at $250,000; Commensurate with Experience

Hours per week

40 hours per week

Review Date

6/5/2026

Additional Information

Due to the nature of the Institute's work, candidates must be U.S. citizens. They must also have the ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact NSI Human Resources at nsihr@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media

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