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Security Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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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Security Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$49

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$55

How much do security researcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Security Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Security Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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.

Securitized Research Analyst, L&G - Asset Management, America

LegalAndGeneral

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Company Description

L&G's Asset Management business is a major investor across public and private markets worldwide, with $1.533 trillion in AUM.* Our clients include individual savers, pension scheme members and global institutions, who invest alongside L&G's own balance sheet.

Our ambition is to be a leading global investor, innovating to solve complex challenges for our clients using the power of L&G. This is rooted in our investment philosophy and processes, which are focused on creating value over the long term.

We believe that incorporating financially material sustainability criteria, when relevant to our clients, can generate value and drive positive change.

Job Description

The Securitized Research Analyst role within LGIM America is designed to provide a high level of support to the Chicago-based US Fixed Income Team and its management of all securitized product investments.ย 

The Research Analyst will provide fundamental credit analysis to support investment decisions within the team relating to Esoteric/Commercial ABS and any other assets within the structured/securitized product sectors.ย  The Research Analyst is expected to have a strong understanding of the securitized industry and a proficient working knowledge of the issuers/collateral types that are active within these markets.ย  The Research Analyst will liaise with company management teams, rating agencies, and investment bank syndicate/research teams to form opinions and analysis relating to new and existing opportunities.

Successful candidate will have ABS research knowledge and will primarily focus on Esoteric/Commercial ABS sectors.ย  The Research Analyst will also be expected to support needed analysis in other Securitized sub sectors as internal efforts expand within those sectors.ย 

Qualifications
  • Applicable ABS sector experience of 5-7ย years, advanced degree required. ย 
  • Job appropriate Securitized research/analysis and organizational skills essential.ย  Experience in understanding ABS including aircraft, digital infrastructure (datacenter & fiber), cell towers, containers, comm/solar PACE, legal settlements, railcars, , timeshare, & whole business.
  • Ability to take ownership for assigned responsibilities independently and accurately.
  • Strong Intex, Bloomberg, Excel, and PowerPoint skills required.
  • ABS modeling experience required.
  • Working knowledge of all securitized products required.ย  Prior research experience analyzing the various sectors of commercial ABS preferred.ย  ย ย 
Additional Information

The starting salary offer will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to the applicant's education, job-related experience, skills, and abilities, geographic location, and market factors. This position is also eligible to participate in the company's annual discretionary bonus plan. Full time employees may be eligible for health insurance with an optional HSA, short term disability, long term disability, dental insurance, vision care, life insurance, Healthcare, Dependent and Limited Care Flexible Spending Accounts, 401K, vacation, sick time, an employee assistance program, and commuter and transit programs.ย  Additional voluntary programs include:ย supplemental health benefits including accidental injury, critical illness and hospital indemnity insurance and pet insurance.ย 

EOE Statement

As an EOE employer, L&G Asset Management, America will extend equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, military status, and/or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local laws governing non-discrimination in employment. (2025)