ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Security Researcher Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Harvard University

Senior Security Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$124K - $170K/yr

Research, evaluate, and recommend new security tools, technologies, and processes that improve HMS security capabilities. * Abide by and follow Harvard University IT technical standards, policies ...

Upwind Security

Security Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

Collaborate with Security Analysts, Research, and Backend teams to enhance detection quality. * Own the handling of complex or critical incidents escalated from Tier 1/2, including live, high ...

Man Group plc

Quant Researcher

Boston, MA · On-site

... deep research and span public and private markets, across all major asset classes, with a ... We have developed policies and processes which are designed to provide for the security and ...

LGBT Great

Quant Researcher

Boston, MA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... deep research and span public and private markets, across all major asset classes, with a ... We have developed policies and processes which are designed to provide for the security and ...

New

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSecurity Researcher JobsSecurity Researcher Jobs in Boston, MA

Security Researcher information

See Boston, MA salary details

$51

$55

$59

How much do security researcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for security researcher in Boston, MA is $55.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.04 and $57.69 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 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 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 do you need to be a security researcher?

A security researcher typically needs a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, programming skills, and knowledge of networks and systems. Relevant certifications like CISSP or CEH can enhance credibility, and familiarity with tools such as Wireshark or penetration testing frameworks is beneficial. A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is often required, along with analytical and problem-solving skills.
More about Security Researcher jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Researcher jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Security Researcher jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Security Researcher jobs in Boston, MA?

For Security Researcher jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Researcher jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Researcher jobs in Boston, MA are:

Security Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Researcher job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,244 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Computer Scientist - Systems Security Research

Riverside Research Institute

Lexington, MA • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design and implement solutions for systems software security challenges.

  • Prototype and evaluate features within large software projects such as Linux, Xen, QEMU, or LLVM.

  • Collaborate across engineering and research teams to solve complex technical problems.

Job description

Riverside Overview
Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country's most challenging technical problems.
All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship
Position Overview
Riverside Research's Secure and Resilient Systems group seeks a Computer Scientist with a focus on systems security research.
Riverside Research's Secure and Resilient Systems group is seeking a computer scientist to conduct applied research in systems security. We're looking for someone with deep technical expertise, a passion for solving challenging problems, and the ability to lead technical efforts while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.
In this role, you'll contribute throughout the research lifecycle-from ideation and proposal development to prototyping, experimentation, and technology transition. Research areas include systems software (e.g., Linux, RTOSs, secure hypervisors), computer architecture, compilers, hardware security, and program analysis. Familiarity with areas such as cryptography, formal methods, or reverse engineering is a plus.
Responsibilities
  • Design and implement innovative solutions for systems software security challenges.
  • Prototype and evaluate features within large software projects (e.g., Linux, Xen, QEMU, LLVM).
  • Develop tools and research prototypes using C/C++, Rust, Python, Assembly, and related technologies.
  • Lead technical investigations, mentor teammates, and help shape research direction.
  • Author technical proposals, white papers, and publications.
  • Communicate research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Collaborate across engineering and research teams to solve complex technical problems.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Thesis-based M.S. with 3+ years of relevant experience, or Ph.D., in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field. Equivalent systems research experience may be considered.
  • Demonstrated research experience through a graduate thesis, publications, or significant applied research projects.
  • Strong systems programming skills with C/C++, Python, and Assembly; knowledge of operating systems, computer architecture, and compilers.
  • Experience contributing to large software projects using modern development practices, including version control, debugging, and build systems.
  • Ability to lead technical efforts by breaking down complex problems, mentoring others, and driving solutions from concept to implementation.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to work effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
  • Must be eligible to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
Desired Qualifications
  • Experience leading research or engineering projects.
  • Experience with offensive and defensive cybersecurity tools.
  • Familiarity with seL4, Rust, LLVM, AFL++, or similar advanced systems software technologies.
  • Existing or previous U.S. security clearance.

Global Comp
$95,000 - $200,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.
Closing Statement
Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees.
Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran's status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.

Apply