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Security Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

JLL

Senior Security Engineer, AI Enablement

Chicago, IL · On-site

$118K - $161K/yr

Stay current on agentic security research and real-world incidents-bringing relevant lessons back to Falcon before they become the team's problem. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * 6+ years of security ...

Maven

Graduate Quant Researcher 2027 - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Graduate Quant Researcher Program Chicago 2027 Maven Securities is a leading proprietary trading firm that leverages sophisticated technology and quantitative analysis to trade in global financial ...

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How much do security researcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for security researcher in Chicago, IL is $52.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.25 and $54.71 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.
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Security Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Researcher job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,225 per year, or $53 per hour.

Senior Quantitative Researcher

Trading Interview

Chicago, IL • On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Senior Quantitative Researcher - Options Market Making

Maven is a market-leading proprietary trading firm deploying its own capital across discretionary, systematic, and market-making strategies. Backed by deep expertise in trading, technology, and research, we are relentlessly focused on improving liquidity across global listed derivatives. Through advanced execution and pricing technologies, we improve how financial markets operate.


The role:

As a Senior Quantitative Researcher, you will lead projects that have a direct impact on our trading performance. You will work collaboratively with other researchers and traders from various scientific fields and prestigious academic institutions, to develop innovative real-time trading models and solutions for low latency trading systems for exchange-traded options. You will share your knowledge and expertise with other researchers to tackle various challenging projects including but not limited to option pricing and volatility models, algorithm design and alpha research.


What we’re looking for:

  • Academic degree in applied mathematics, computer science, statistics engineering or physics. PhD or any other track record in conducting independent research.

  • Minimum 3+ years of experience in the financial industry, particularly electronic options trading.

  • Ability to research advanced algorithms, develop predictive models and verify complex hypotheses using large datasets.

  • Proactive interest in improving existing trading strategies and identifying new opportunities.

  • A collaborative bridge between developers, and traders who aligns technical work with commercial impact and the broader strategic vision, and a real team player with other quants in the team.


Why you should apply:

  • Rare opportunity to take a high level of responsibility at a fast-growing global trading firm

  • Opportunity to be highly involved in the decisions that shape our trading

  • Flexible research environment to iterate on your ideas quickly and see the impact of your work in production

  • Leadership opportunities as the team grow

  • Great engineering environment where technology, creativity and innovation is key to our success

  • An environment where you’re empowered and supported to achieve your ambitions

  • Friendly, informal and highly rewarding culture

  • The upside of a start-up without the associated risks


WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

  • Competitive compensation

  • Annual discretionary bonus

  • Fully catered breakfast and lunch

  • 25 days’ annual leave

  • Informal dress code

  • Private healthcare and life assurance


The Options Market Making team at Maven Securities operates under a strict direct sourcing model. We are committed to managing all recruitment activities internally to ensure a consistent and transparent candidate experience. As such, we do not accept unsolicited CVs or introductions from recruitment agencies.


This description was published by Maven Securities. Applications are handled on their careers site: we are not the employer and cannot process them.


Maven Securities is a market-leading proprietary trading firm, allocating internal capital between discretionary, systematic and market-making strategies. We were established over a decade ago and have grown into a significant…

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