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Senior Reverse Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Full Stack Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $140K/yr

Senior Full Stack Developer - In this senior role, the successful candidate will Design, Develop ... Knowledge of Load Balancing, Firewalls, Reverse Proxies is preferred. * Experience with Microsoft ...

Senior Full Stack Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $140K/yr

Senior Full Stack Developer - In this senior role, the successful candidate will Design, Develop ... Knowledge of Load Balancing, Firewalls, Reverse Proxies is preferred. * Experience with Microsoft ...

Senior Full Stack Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $140K/yr

Senior Full Stack Developer - In this senior role, the successful candidate will Design, Develop ... Knowledge of Load Balancing, Firewalls, Reverse Proxies is preferred. Experience with Microsoft SQL ...

Machinist

Elgin, IL

$30 - $35/hr

Machine Shop Job Summary The Machinist will have senior level knowledge in understanding machine ... Ability to provide shop sketches for innovative ideas or reverse engineered parts. * Excellent ...

... reverse engineering impact analysis for modernization initiatives Work with business stakeholders to translate requirements into functional technical specs Good understanding of legacy system ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Reverse Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$61.3K

$130.4K

$189K

How much do senior reverse engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior reverse engineer in Chicago, IL is $130,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,600.00 and $147,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Reverse Engineers?

Senior Reverse Engineers are experienced professionals who analyze software, hardware, or systems to understand their design, functionality, and vulnerabilities. They often work to deconstruct compiled code or firmware to identify security flaws, ensure software compliance, or aid in malware analysis. Their expertise is crucial in cybersecurity, forensics, and software interoperability, as they help organizations protect against threats and improve system resilience. Senior Reverse Engineers typically have advanced knowledge of programming languages, debugging tools, and operating systems. They may also lead teams, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to strategic security initiatives.

What is the difference between Senior Reverse Engineer vs Malware Analyst?

AspectSenior Reverse EngineerMalware Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., GREM, OSCP)Bachelor's in Cybersecurity, malware analysis certifications (e.g., GREM, GIAC)
Work EnvironmentSecurity firms, tech companies, government agenciesSecurity firms, government agencies, incident response teams
Industry UsageAnalyzing complex software, debugging, reverse engineering binariesDetecting, analyzing, and mitigating malware threats
Comparison FocusDeep reverse engineering skills, software analysisMalware detection and threat analysis

While both roles require cybersecurity expertise and reverse engineering skills, Senior Reverse Engineers focus on analyzing software at a code level, often working on complex binaries and software vulnerabilities. Malware Analysts specialize in identifying and understanding malicious code to mitigate threats. Both roles are vital in cybersecurity but differ in their primary focus and daily tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Reverse Engineers when analyzing complex software?

Senior Reverse Engineers often encounter challenges such as heavily obfuscated or packed binaries, lack of documentation, and anti-reverse engineering techniques implemented by developers. These obstacles require deep knowledge of assembly language, debugging tools, and creative problem-solving skills. Collaboration with other security professionals, such as malware analysts or incident responders, is also common to share insights and overcome particularly difficult cases. Staying up-to-date with evolving software protection methods is essential for continued success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Reverse Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Reverse Engineer, you need deep expertise in software analysis, assembly language, malware analysis, and computer architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Proficiency with tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, and experience with debuggers and disassemblers are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and tools are vital for dissecting complex software, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing effective security solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reverse Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Reverse Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Security Engineer

Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Security Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

We are seeking capable, talented, and motivated team-contributors at our Northrop Grumman Rolling Meadows site. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. These systems are designed, developed, built, integrated, and tested by the capable folks at our company to protect the lives of US and Allied warfighters in present and future conflicts. Enjoy Come join a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today. If you are interested in consideration to be included as a part of this team, we would invite you to apply.

What You Will Get to Do:

As an integral part of our Systems Security Engineering team, you will be responsible for providing hands-on experience in the development of sensor payloads and secure mission security solutions supporting our hardware and software security solutions to tip of the spear warfighters.

Roles & Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate full life cycle Systems Engineering development experience in Anti-Tamper and/or Cybersecurity: encompassing architecture design, trade studies, requirements formulation, detailed design, unit testing, system testing, and validation and verification practices.

  • Support the development and implementation of hardware and software Anti-Tamper and/or CyberSecurity techniques and countermeasures to protect assets and enhance operational integrity and reliability.

  • Implement and ensure compliance with US Government policies (e.g., JSIG, DAAPM, NIST 800-53, CNSSI 1253, DODI 5200.39, etc.); e.g., by supporting secure architecting of systems, reviewing processes, tailoring needs controls, and approving generating documented procedures artifacts, and overseeing security testing and analysis.

  • Conduct thorough analyses to validate existing security requirements and develop additional safeguards as necessary to enhance system security.

  • Collaborate with the US Government and program teams to negotiate and develop Anti-Tamper / CyberSecurity solutions for international export markets, ensuring the security of compliance with Tri-Service Committee and Red Team requirements for US-deployed and exported military systems.

  • Utilize reverse engineering techniques to architect and validate effective security Anti-Tamper / CyberSecurity solutions.

  • Conduct Technical Release Analyses in accordance with US Government security governance, service policies, and licensing precedents. Prepare, assess, and certify Controlled Unclassified Information and higher information and Critical Program Information determinations for licensing.

  • Coordinate Technology Release efforts with program personnel by engaging relevant stakeholders and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to ensure successful outcomes, to include development and delivery of training on Technology Release processes to program personnel.

  • Manage and communicate the necessary analyses and modifications for system, subsystem, or sensor exportability, ensuring compliance with international standards.

  • Apply intermediate understanding of cryptographic security protocols to safeguard sensitive information.

  • Support formal Security Test and Evaluation (ST&E) processes mandated by US Government authorities through comprehensive pre-test preparations, active participation in testing, result analysis, and the preparation of required reports.

  • Document findings from Assessment and Authorization activities, as well as technical and coordination efforts, while preparing and maintaining the system Security Plans and updating the Plan of Actions and Milestones (POA&M).

  • Support strategic planning for Anti-Tamper and CyberSecurity technology development that aligns with global strategic priorities and influences current and future policies.

  • Collaborate effectively with program teams and global Business Development stakeholders to incorporate international requirements and features into design processes and drive product line initiatives for global market success.

  • Actively participate in communities of practice to enhance domain knowledge and foster continuous professional development throughout the organization.

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.

This position may be contingent upon Funding/Contract award, special access program and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.

This position can be filled at the Principal Systems Design Engineer or Sr. Principal Systems Design Engineer level based on specific requirements listed below.

Basic Qualifications for Principal Systems Security Engineer:

  • Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field with 5 years of related experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM field with 3 years of related experience; OR a PhD in a STEM field with 1 year of related experience

  • Two (2) years of Systems Engineering experience with DoD based Platforms, Sensors and/or Sub-systems. Including but not limited to: EO/IR, Embedded Software or Cryptography, Satellite, Architecture development, Hardware design, RF, Radar and Undersea Sensors, etc.

  • Two (2) years of experience with requirements development, derivation, system integration & test and validation and verification

  • Two (2) years of experience with Anti-Tamper or Cyber Security, Reverse Engineering and/or Cyber Security Risk Management Framework / Cyber Resiliency

  • Candidate must be a US Citizen

  • Current Active Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance

Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Systems Security Engineer:

  • Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field with 8 years of related experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM field with 6 years of related experience; OR a PhD in a STEM field with 4 years of related experience

  • Two (2) years of Systems Engineering experience with DoD based Platforms, Sensors and/or Sub-systems. Including but not limited to: EO/IR, Embedded Software or Cryptography, Satellite, Architecture development, Hardware design, RF, Radar and Undersea Sensors, etc.

  • Two (2) years of experience with requirements development, derivation, system integration & test and validation and verification

  • Two (2) years of experience with Anti-Tamper or Cyber Security, Reverse Engineering and/or Cyber Security Risk Management Framework / Cyber Resiliency

  • Candidate must be a US Citizen

  • Current Active Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance

Preferred Qualifications for Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Security Engineer:

  • Advanced degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics or related technical fields

  • Active Secret or Top-Secret clearance

  • Experience with Systems Engineering development of DoD weapon systems

  • Experience with Hardware (Firmware) Assurance, Software Attack Surface Analysis Report, Select Software/Firmware Encryption, and Secure Key Handling

  • Experience with identifying and mitigating software assurance vulnerabilities and performing integration testing of mitigation/resolution

  • Experience with contributing to and/or making technical presentations to internal and external customers

Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939