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Senior Vulnerability Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Vulnerability Researcher

MD · Remote

$165K - $200K/yr

Our fast-growing roster of government customers relies on us to deliver advanced security solutions, and we're looking for a Senior Vulnerability Researcher to help us continue pushing boundaries. If ...

Vulnerability Researcher: Use advanced systems to find zero-day (O-day) vulnerabilities. Responsible for analyzing, designing, and identifying programmatic behaviors. Have an opportunity to develop ...

Vulnerability Researcher: Use advanced systems to find zero-day (O-day) vulnerabilities. Responsible for analyzing, designing, and identifying programmatic behaviors. Have an opportunity to develop ...

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Senior Vulnerability Researcher information

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$28.5K

$76.6K

$137.5K

How much do senior vulnerability researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior vulnerability researcher in the United States is $76,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior vulnerability researcher do?

A Senior Vulnerability Researcher is responsible for identifying, analyzing, and reporting security vulnerabilities in software, hardware, or network systems. They use advanced techniques to discover potential security flaws that could be exploited by attackers. Their work involves reverse engineering, penetration testing, and developing proof-of-concept exploits to demonstrate risks. Additionally, they often collaborate with development teams to recommend mitigation strategies and help improve overall security posture.

What are some common challenges faced by senior vulnerability researchers when working on complex systems?

Senior Vulnerability Researchers often encounter challenges such as reverse engineering proprietary software, analyzing obfuscated code, and dealing with a lack of documentation for complex systems. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as software developers and security analysts, is essential to understand system intricacies and coordinate responsible disclosure. Staying updated with the latest attack techniques and adapting to rapidly evolving technology landscapes are also key aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior vulnerability researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Vulnerability Researcher, you need deep expertise in cybersecurity, reverse engineering, exploit development, and a strong background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, debuggers, and proficiency in programming languages such as C, Python, and assembly are essential, along with relevant certifications like OSCP or CEH. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting complex findings. These competencies are vital for identifying and mitigating security risks, ensuring robust protection of digital assets, and driving advancements in security research.

What is the difference between Senior Vulnerability Researcher vs Security Analyst?

AspectSenior Vulnerability ResearcherSecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsCertifications like OSCP, CISSP, CEH; strong technical backgroundCertifications like Security+, CISSP; focus on monitoring and analysis
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, cybersecurity firms, R&D teamsSecurity operations centers, corporate IT departments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesFinancial institutions, healthcare, enterprise organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding advanced vulnerability research rolesComparing security roles in cybersecurity teams

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Senior Vulnerability Researcher specializes in identifying and analyzing security flaws through research and testing, often working in labs or R&D environments. In contrast, a Security Analyst monitors security systems, responds to incidents, and maintains overall security posture within organizations. The roles complement each other but differ in focus and daily responsibilities.

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Infographic showing various Senior Vulnerability Researcher job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,607 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Senior Vulnerability Researcher

Herndon, VA • On-site

Redhorse Corporation
Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees

$150K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About the Organization
Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. We are a solution-driven company delivering data insights and technology solutions to customers with missions critical to U.S. national interests. We're looking for thoughtful, skilled professionals who thrive as trusted partners building technology-agnostic solutions and want to apply their talents supporting customers with difficult and important mission sets.

About the Role

Redhorse is transforming how the government utilizes data and technology. We are seeking a self-motivated Senior Vulnerability Researcher who is ready to solve some of the most challenging technical problems in a fast-paced environment supporting national security.

In this role, you will be a key driver of our cyber mission, applying advanced vulnerability research (VR), reverse engineering (RE), and vulnerability exploitation (VE) skills to support critical defensive and offensive cyber requirements. As a senior member of our team, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy, solving complex problems with minimal oversight while mentoring the next generation of technical talent. Your work will directly impact the safety and efficacy of national security operations.

Key Responsibilities
  • Apply a variety of VR techniques-including fuzzing, RE, and online research-to identify vulnerabilities and determine exploitability.
  • Develop proof-of-concept software and creative solutions to meet diverse customer requirements.
  • Perform vulnerability assessments of secure technologies to determine if protected or inaccessible information is recoverable.
  • Manage customer expectations by implementing proactive feedback mechanisms and providing technical insights.
  • Prepare and deliver concise presentations and reports summarizing research findings for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify and communicate operational requirements.
  • Shape Computer Architecture (CA) requirements to ensure they align with broader operational goals.
  • Synthesize technical and operational information to develop innovative solutions for complex cyber challenges.
  • Mentor junior personnel, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
Required Experience/Clearance
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • Seven (7)+ years of professional experience in vulnerability research.
  • Proven expertise in programming within contemporary Windows and Linux/Unix environments.
  • Proficiency in multiple languages including C, C++, Java, and JavaScript.
  • Extensive experience using reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, OllyDbg, and Windbg.
  • Demonstrated experience reverse engineering Windows/Linux applications and OS kernel modules.
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
Desired Experience
  • Experience with network protocol analysis and deep-packet inspection.
  • Static and dynamic malware analysis experience for mobile platforms, specifically iOS and Android.
  • Knowledge of software engineering with a focus on workflow automation for existing security tools.
  • Proficiency in identifying discreet, complex communications technologies that support investigative techniques.
  • Advanced Vulnerability Exploitation (VE) capabilities, including understanding the relationship between analysis concepts and computational resource requirements.
$150,000 - $275,000 a year
The salary range provided for this position represents the anticipated base salary for successful candidates. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, security clearance level, geographic location, market conditions, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, eligible employees may participate in Redhorse's comprehensive benefits programs and may be eligible for performance-based or other incentive compensation, where applicable.
 
Redhorse Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
 
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Talent Acquisition at [email protected]
 
Redhorse Corporation shall, in its discretion, modify or adjust the position to meet Redhorse's changing needs. This job description is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in Redhorse's sole discretion.
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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