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Security Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Precision Solutions

Senior Reverse Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site +1

$105K - $145K/yr

Highly specialized, boutique offensive security research firm and commercial vendor that serves as the premier global authority on firmware-layer defense. They develop proprietary, bare-metal ...

AllSTEM Connections

Information Security Analyst - II

Richmond, VA · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

In this role, you will perform deep-dive research, analyze information security data, and translate technical security requirements into actionable business processes. You will serve as a key bridge ...

Range

Senior Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$130 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You've spent real time doing red team operations, penetration testing, or security research. You know how attackers actually work, not just how frameworks describe them. Curious about AI. You have ...

Range

Senior Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$115K - $158K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You've spent real time doing red team operations, penetration testing, or security research. You know how attackers actually work, not just how frameworks describe them. Curious about AI. You have ...

Cellebrite

Sales Engineer, Federal

Tysons, VA · On-site +1

In this role, you will be positioning, demonstrating, and selling the Corellium platform to researchers, reverse engineers, and security analysts. You must be able to "speak the language" of ARM ...

AnaVation

Sr. Cyber Engineer (AI)

Chantilly, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will work at the intersection of security research, machine learning, and large-scale automation-designing tools that push the boundaries of modern vulnerability detection. Key Responsibilities

AnaVation

Sr. Cyber Engineer (AI)

Chantilly, VA · On-site

You will work at the intersection of security research, machine learning, and large-scale automation--designing tools that push the boundaries of modern vulnerability detection. Key Responsibilities

AnaVation

Sr. Cyber Engineer (AI)

Chantilly, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will work at the intersection of security research, machine learning, and large-scale automation-designing tools that push the boundaries of modern vulnerability detection. Key Responsibilities

Unique Hardware Software Systems Company in Major Growth Mode

Be Seen First

Senior Manager of Networks Security Cloud, with Regulatory Compliance

Sterling, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience leading ongoing self-audits and updates to documentation and plans surrounding risk, compliance, IT Security, R&D Information Sharing and related areas; experience with NIST and or CMMC ...

KBR

Cryptography Analyst with Security Clearance

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$219K - $268K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience performing vulnerability assessments or security research activities. Basic Compensation: $219,900 to $268,800 This range is for the Virginia area only The offered rate will be based on ...

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All JobsSecurity Research JobsSecurity Research Jobs in Virginia

Security Research information

See Virginia salary details

$47

$51

$53

How much do security research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 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 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 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.

How much do security researchers make?

Security researchers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications like CISSP can earn higher salaries. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and the complexity of security challenges handled.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

Senior Reverse Engineer

Precision Solutions

Leesburg, VA • On-site, Remote

$105K - $145K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview
Senior Reverse Engineer
Location: MD/Northern VA
Hybrid
Clearance: Active security clearance preferred or the ability to obtain one
About our Client/Role:
Highly specialized, boutique offensive security research firm and commercial vendor that serves as the premier global authority on firmware-layer defense. They develop proprietary, bare-metal security software and lead high-stakes research initiatives to protect critical infrastructure, defense assets, and global enterprise hardware from weaponized, low-level exploits. Operating like an elite, zero-bureaucracy research lab, they offer deep practitioners a pure, low-level reverse engineering environment focused on solving the industry's most complex binary-layer challenges.
We are seeking a Senior Reverse Engineer. In this role, you will lead interesting and complex security research initiatives focusing on hardware and software integrity. You will collaborate with other elite engineers to identify firmware-based vulnerabilities and build defensive countermeasures for mission-critical infrastructure. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge protection mechanisms for global systems while working in a collaborative and technically sophisticated environment.
Responsibilities
  • Direct and mentor engineering teams through complex reverse engineering cycles to ensure high-impact project delivery
  • Perform deep-dive static and dynamic analysis to identify flaws in hardware-interfacing software and firmware
  • Design sophisticated exploits to validate security gaps, demonstrating risks like privilege escalation or unauthorized code execution
  • Architect and implement robust security solutions designed to detect and thwart advanced persistent threats in realtime
  • Engineer custom software frameworks to automate the identification of vulnerabilities within low-level codebases
  • Navigate ambiguous technical challenges to advance the state of the art in system-wide security architectures
  • Provide expert reporting and occasional travel to support on-site project milestones and hardware analysis
  • Communicate highly technical findings to internal stakeholders and external partners through detailed documentation
  • Participate in hands-on hardware testing and project execution requiring physical presence at our specialized facilities

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years of professional experience in software or hardware reverse engineering
  • Proficiency in C/C++ and Python for low-level development
  • Expertise in assembly languages such as ARM, MIPS, or x86
  • Experience with IDA Pro, Ghidra, or Binary Ninja equivalent • Curiosity and high self-initiative in a research-heavy environment
  • Ability to lead and mentor junior engineers
  • Familiarity with firmware security, hardware-software interfaces such as I2C, UART, SPI
  • Active security clearance preferred or the ability to obtain one

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
About Us
Northern Virginia-based Precision Solutions is an expert in staffing solutions for companies of any size that open the door to new opportunities and seek outstanding talent. We pride ourselves on being versatile enough to tailor our relationships to the needs of each individual client, being agile in the fast-paced marketplace, and being precise in meeting the needs of any company.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Precision Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

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