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Security Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cmu

Associate AI Security Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Are you excited about pioneering new research areas that will impact academia, industry, and national security? If so, we want you for our team, where you'll collaborate to deliver high-quality ...

Microsoft

Principal Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

We are looking for a Principal-level red team security researcher with experience in adversary emulation, offensive tooling, and malware development to design and execute realistic attack simulations ...

Microsoft

Senior Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

Responsibilities As a Senior Security Researcher on the MTP Research Purple Team, you will: • Design and execute adversary simulations that emulate real-world threat actors across endpoint ...

Wiz, Inc.

AI Security Researcher

$160K - $220K/yr

SUMMARY We're looking for a talented AI Security Researcher to join our team and play a critical role in Wiz's foundational, risk-driven approach to cloud security. This role requires deep technical ...

Cmu

Senior AI Security Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Are you excited about pioneering new research areas that will impact academia, industry, and national security? If so, we want you for our team, where you'll collaborate to deliver high-quality ...

Microsoft

Senior Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Senior Security Researcher, excited by finding new attacks, to join our research team and focus on detecting and autonomously protecting against sophisticated enterprise ...

Apple

Offensive Security Researcher, SEAR

Cupertino, CA · On-site

You will join a team working with world-class offensive security researchers. The work is critical directly shapes the security posture of Apple. You will conduct offensive research into AI-specific ...

FiveTwelve

Windows Security Researcher

Hanover, MD · On-site

$5.2K/mo

The candidate will be working on a team performing security research against Windows technologies. The candidate must be familiar with the latest techniques in vulnerability research and demonstrate ...

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How much do security researcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for security researcher in the United States is $51.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.76 and $53.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Security Researchers and cybersecurity professionals can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially at senior levels, in specialized roles, or within high-paying industries like finance or technology. Achieving this often requires advanced skills, certifications, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or consulting positions.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the field of security research, senior roles such as cybersecurity directors, chief security officers, or specialized consultants with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn salaries of $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced technical skills, leadership abilities, and a strong understanding of threat management and security protocols.

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.

How much do security researchers get paid?

Security researchers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but typically range from $70,000 to $130,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $150,000. Many security researchers also work in environments that require knowledge of tools like penetration testing frameworks and programming languages.

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.

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.
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Security Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,000 per year, or $51.4 per hour.
Windows Security Researcher

Windows Security Researcher

Link, LLC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct security research related to Windows technologies.

  • Document research findings with attention to detail.

  • Write code in C, Python, and Assembly to demonstrate control over identified vulnerabilities.

Job description

Responsibilities: As a Windows Security Researcher, you will be part of a team focused on conducting security research related to Windows technologies. You should be familiar with the latest techniques in vulnerability research and demonstrate the ability to adhere to best practices. Attention to detail is critical, especially when documenting research findings. Additionally, you will often be required to write code in C, Python, and Assembly to showcase control over identified vulnerabilities.

Position Requirements:
        Understanding of Windows Kernel and device derivers
        Experience reading and writing assembly (x86/x64)
        Extensive experience with debuggers (WinDBG, etc.)
       Strong C, Python, and Assembly development experience
        Ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and developers as part of a team
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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