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Security Researcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Product Security Architect

Troy, MI

$61.50 - $79.50/hr

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY YOUR ROLE Wind River Systems is seeking an experiencedSoftware Product Security Architect to join the R&D Security Office to scale trust in our product security to meet ...

Product Security Architect

Troy, MI · On-site

$61.50 - $79.50/hr

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY YOUR ROLE Wind River Systems is seeking an experienced Software Product Security Architect to join the R&D Security Office to scale trust in our product security to meet ...

Perform security and integrity reviews of the organization's data or IT systems REQUIREMENTS * 2+ ... Hands-on experience using common AI models for automation, reporting, or research * Familiar with ...

Security Officer I

Detroit, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

May direct traffic on hospital premises as required. 6. Monitors security and fire equipment, such ... research. A specialty referral hospital, Harper has established Centers of Excellence in ...

Security Officer I

Detroit, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Responsibilities 1. Presents a visible security presence in order to prevent the appearance of ... research. A specialty referral hospital, Harper has established Centers of Excellence in ...

Showing results 21-40

Security Researcher information

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How much do security researcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for security researcher in Michigan is $44.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.37 and $46.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Security Researcher?

A security researcher keeps up-to-date on all the latest developments in threats to computer software and networks. These threats include different types of malware, such as computer viruses, malicious software and scripts, and direct attacks on a network. The main duties of a security researcher are to investigate existing types of malware, analyze their capabilities, and attempt to predict new forms of malware to develop appropriate security responses. They may reverse engineer malware or test security systems.

What are Security Researchers?

Security Researchers are professionals who analyze computer systems, networks, and software to identify vulnerabilities and potential security threats. They often discover new types of cyberattacks, develop tools or methods to test for weaknesses, and recommend ways to improve security. Security Researchers may work for private companies, government agencies, or independently, and they play a crucial role in preventing cybercrime by staying ahead of hackers. Their work often involves reverse engineering, penetration testing, and publishing their findings to help strengthen cybersecurity across the industry.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Security Researchers can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand areas like penetration testing or threat analysis. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, with senior roles and specialized skills commanding higher pay.

What is the difference between Security Researcher vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity ResearcherSecurity Analyst
CredentialsCertifications like CISSP, CEH, OSCPCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, GIAC
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, cybersecurity firms, R&D teamsSecurity operations centers, corporate IT teams
Employer & IndustryTech companies, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesFinancial institutions, healthcare, enterprise companies
Primary FocusIdentifying vulnerabilities, developing exploits, analyzing threatsMonitoring security systems, incident response, implementing security measures

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Security Researchers primarily analyze vulnerabilities and develop exploits to understand threats better. Security Analysts focus on monitoring, detecting, and responding to security incidents within organizations. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and daily tasks.

What does a security researcher do?

A security researcher analyzes computer systems, networks, and software to identify vulnerabilities and develop ways to protect against cyber threats. They often use tools like penetration testing and vulnerability scanners and may hold certifications such as CISSP or CEH. Their work helps improve cybersecurity defenses and prevent cyberattacks.

How to get a job as a security researcher?

To become a security researcher, develop strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles, programming, and network protocols. Obtain relevant certifications such as CISSP or CEH, gain experience through internships or labs, and stay updated on current security threats and tools like Wireshark or Metasploit.

How much do security researchers make in the US?

Security researchers in the US typically earn a median salary of around $100,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at approximately $70,000 and experienced professionals earning over $130,000. Salaries vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the security environment they work in.

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 deep expertise in computer science, networking, vulnerability assessment, and malware analysis, often supported by a degree in cybersecurity or related fields. Familiarity with tools like IDA Pro, Wireshark, Metasploit, and certifications such as OSCP or CEH is highly valued. Analytical thinking, curiosity, and strong written and verbal communication help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying emerging threats, effectively communicating risks, and developing solutions to protect organizations' digital assets.

What are some common challenges Security Researchers face when collaborating with development teams?

Security Researchers often encounter challenges when working with development teams, such as communicating complex vulnerabilities in a way that is actionable for developers and aligning on remediation priorities. Bridging the gap between security findings and practical implementation requires clear documentation and a collaborative mindset. Additionally, researchers must balance thorough testing with minimal disruption to production environments, ensuring security improvements integrate smoothly into development cycles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Security Researcher jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Security Researcher jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Security Researcher jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Security Researcher jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Security Researcher job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,260 per year, or $44.8 per hour.
Product Security Architect

Product Security Architect

Aptiv

Troy, MI

$61.50 - $79.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

ABOUT WIND RIVER

Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four decades, the company has been an innovator and pioneer, powering billions of systems that require the highest levels of security, safety, and reliability.

Wind River helps customers across automotive, aerospace, defense, industrial, medical, and telecommunications industries solve complex technology challenges on their journey toward the new intelligent machine economy. The company's software powers generation after generation of the safest, most secure systems in the world. Examples include playing a key role in NASA space missions such as Artemis I, the James Webb Space Telescope, and multiple Mars rovers. We've achieved recent 5G milestones including the world's first successful 5G data session with Verizon and building one of the largest Open RAN networks in the world with Vodafone.

The company has received industry recognition for its technology innovation and leadership, and for its workplace culture, including global Great Place to Work certification and being named a "Top Workplace" for ten consecutive years. If you want to be part of a unique culture where the lived experience is based on our cultural attributes of growth mindset, customer-focus, and diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging, come join us and help advance the future software defined world.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

YOUR ROLE

Wind River Systems is seeking an experiencedSoftware Product Security Architect to join the R&D Security Office to scale trust in our product security to meet increasing business and security technology needs. This position will join a mature product security team and architect and mobilize product security trust initiatives, manage customer product security trust, and contribute to product security incident response (PSIRT) and vulnerability management.

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE

In your daily job you will:

  • Work and collaborate with customer, product, engineering, and operations teams to ensure high levels ofproduct security trust with a scalable, compliance-driven mindset, across all products
  • Architect the product security trust roadmap and scale the compliance framework to meet emerging and future business priorities.
  • Empower product security compliance frameworks across engineering and aligned to the CTO Office, Product Management, IT, Legal, InfoSec, and SecOps.
  • Empower product security champions throughout product engineering.
  • Manage customer product security trust and compliance.
  • Training, mentoring, and supporting development teams to followsecure developmentvalues, principles, and practices.

Key skills and competencies for succeeding in this role are:

  • Direct experience with product security assurance techniques including Threat Modeling, Security Testing, Vulnerability Management, Software Composition, etc.
  • Experience in software engineering models and techniques.
  • Experience empowering security compliance broadly across an organization.
  • Broad-based experience with global security regulations, frameworks, and standards.
  • Exposure to customer compliance and remediations (Questionnaire's, Audits, Contracts, etc.)
  • Ability to analyze and think quickly and to resolveconflict.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal,and mentoring skills.
  • Ability to work effectively across the organization.
  • Ability to adapt to a changing environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, information technology or similar field with 14 years of experience in software development, security engineering, and/or compliance. Master's Degree is preferred and 12 years of related experience.
  • Preferred is a certified security professional (CSSLP, CISM, CISSP, CEH, or similar).
  • Direct experience mobilizing one or more security standards/certifications/models like OWASP SAMM, IEC 62443, ISO 21434, NIST 800-218, FIPS 140-3, DISA STIG, Common Criteria, CMMC, FedRamp, etc.
  • Practical experience with the NIST 800 series of security standards, including 800-53, 800-171, and others.
  • Experience mobilizing secure software development techniques across an organization such as training, workshops, or similar.
  • Demonstrated experience using agile techniques and frameworks to deliver secure software.
  • Excellent verbal and written, management level and customer communicationskills.
  • Preferred experience with the European Union (EU) security regulatory environment including the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).
  • Preferred experience with national security systems and standards (CNSS, etc.).
  • Preferred working knowledge of risk management frameworks and risk-based secure software development.
  • Preferred experience with AI and Machine learning and their governance and provenance in a secure software development environment.
  • Preferred working knowledge of related quality and safety assurance standards such as ASPICE, ISO 26262, or DO-178C.

BENEFITS

  • Hybrid work model for workplace flexibility
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance
  • Short and long-term disability coverage
  • RRSP matching for financialsecurity
  • Flexibletime-off policies for work-life balance
  • Employee assistance program for mental well-being
  • Learning benefits, including a LinkedIn Learning subscription and seminars

COMPENSATION

The annual base salary range for this role's listed grade level is currently $146,000 to 210,00 plus bonus, or $180,000 to $230,200 plus a bonus for MA, NYC, CO, WA and CA residents. Salary ranges are determined through interviews and a review of the education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities of the applicant, and equity with other team members.

SPECIAL CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position will perform work that the U.S. government has specified can only be performed by a U.S. citizen on U.S. soil, and therefore any offer will be contingent upon verification of both of these requirements.

Join us at Wind River, where we're not just shaping technology; we're shaping the future of a safer, more connected world. Your journey to make a meaningful impact begins here.

Wind River is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to diversity. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other legally protected status.

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Privacy Notice - Active Candidates: https://www.aptiv.com/privacy-notice-active-candidates

Aptiv is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.