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Software Reverse Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

STR

Principal Software Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA

$204K - $284K/yr

STR is hiring a Principal Software Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. This opportunity will be part of a multidisciplinary team ...

STR

Principal Software Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$204K - $284K/yr

STR is hiring a Principal Software Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. This opportunity will be part of a multidisciplinary team ...

STR

Principal Software Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA

$204K - $284K/yr

STR is hiring a Principal Software Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. This opportunity will be part of a multidisciplinary team ...

STR

Senior Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110.90K - $152.40K/yr

Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...

STR

Senior Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA

$134K - $184K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

STR

Senior Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA

$134K - $184K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

STR

Senior Reverse Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

Exemplis

Senior Scanning & Reverse Engineer

Cypress, CA · Hybrid

$112.41K - $168.61K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Engineer specializing in 3D scanning, reverse engineering, and A-surface ... Advanced skills in scan processing and surfacing software (Geomagic, PolyWorks, Artec Studio, CATIA ...

Apple

Software Development Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$181.10K - $272.10K/yr

Analyze and reverse engineer malware using tools including IDA Pro. Identify malicious software behavior and develop signatures to block malicious software. Build and maintain custom tools to aid ...

DLH

Electrical/Electronics Engineer II

San Diego, CA

$100K - $130K/yr

Utilize scanning, microscopic inspection, and other methods to reverse engineer Printed Circuit Boards and electronic assemblies * Utilize software to Layout Circuit Card Assemblies and Printed ...

DLH

Electrical/Electronics Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Utilize scanning, microscopic inspection, and other methods to reverse engineer Printed Circuit Boards and electronic assemblies * Utilize software to Layout Circuit Card Assemblies and Printed ...

Astera

Staff Software Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$200K - $500K/yr

Position Summary We are looking for an ambitious Staff Software Engineer to help us reverse-engineer the human brain. This role spans a broad spectrum of activities: * Define and architect high ...

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How much do software reverse engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for software reverse engineer in California is $90.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83.27 and $97.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Software Reverse Engineer job?

A Software Reverse Engineer analyzes software to understand its design, functionality, and security vulnerabilities. This role often involves decompiling code, identifying weaknesses, and improving software security. Reverse engineers work in cybersecurity, malware analysis, and software compatibility. They use tools like disassemblers, debuggers, and decompilers to inspect software behavior. This field requires strong programming skills and knowledge of operating systems and architectures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Software Reverse Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Reverse Engineer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages (such as C/C++ and Assembly), deep understanding of operating systems, and expertise in reverse engineering methodologies—often supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with disassemblers, debuggers, decompilers (like IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg), and relevant certifications such as OSCP or CEH is highly valued. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent problem-solving skills set top candidates apart. These abilities are critical for dissecting complex binaries, uncovering vulnerabilities, and ensuring effective collaboration while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines.

What does a typical workday look like for a Software Reverse Engineer?

As a Software Reverse Engineer, your day often involves analyzing compiled code, identifying program structures, and uncovering hidden functionalities or vulnerabilities within software applications. You may spend significant time using tools like disassemblers and debuggers to inspect binaries, document findings, and collaborate closely with security analysts, developers, or legal teams. Problem-solving and attention to detail are essential, as projects often involve working with both legacy and modern systems. While much of the work is independent, frequent communication with team members is required to share insights and develop effective remediation strategies.
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What cities in California are hiring for Software Reverse Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Reverse Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Software Reverse Engineer jobs in CA? For Software Reverse Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Software Reverse Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Reverse Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $187,511 per year, or $90.1 per hour.
Principal Software Reverse Engineer

Principal Software Reverse Engineer

STR

San Diego, CA

$204K - $284K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

STR is hiring a Principal Software Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. This opportunity will be part of a multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers dedicated to developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our national security. This position offers an excellent opportunity to work at the nexus of computers and real-world physical systems. We believe that each employee has a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives that are essential to providing our customers with innovative solutions. The skills listed below are representative of those needed for this role but are not the only acceptable set. If you see an overlap with your skills, go ahead and apply!.

Work must be performed onsite and Active Top Secret (TS) Clearance required.

What you'll do:

  • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems
  • Developing and applying automated reverse engineering and binary analysis tools to characterize protocols, interfaces, and functionality of target systems
  • Developing innovative cybersecurity solutions
  • Leading multi-discipline teams to tackle challenging problems from a wide variety of technologies to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions
  • Performing vulnerability weaponization, exploit development, payload development, and exploit mitigation on a variety of challenging targets
  • Technical marketing to existing and potential customers
  • Technical proposal development (idea generation, writing, reviewing, editing)
  • Documenting, demonstrating, and presenting research
  • Solving real world problems that have an impact on national security

Who you are:

  • This position requires an Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by the U.S. Government.
  • Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity or related field plus a minimum of 15 years relevant experience
    (MS or PhD with equivalent work experience may also be considered)
  • Substantial experience leading technical teams on advanced reverse engineering and exploitation programs
  • Experience with binary analysis of software/firmware
  • Experience with disassembly tools, such as IDA Pro, Binary Ninja, or Ghidra
  • Proficiency in multiple Assembly Languages: x86, ARM, etc.
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages: C/C++, Python, etc.
  • Deep understanding of reverse engineering fundamentals
  • Experience in Vulnerability research and analysis
  • Knowledge of weaponizing discovered vulnerabilities into exploits

Nice to haves:

  • Implant or software patch development
  • Familiarity with binary emulation or vulnerability research, including tools such as QEMU or AFL++
  • Experience with DSP architectures, such as Texas Instruments, STMicroelectronics, NXP, or Analog Devices.
  • Knowledge of operating system internals including memory/process/thread management
  • Embedded systems or firmware analysis
  • Experience development custom emulation tools to enable dynamic analysis
  • Disassembler/decompiler module development
  • Experience analyzing and reconstructing code/data flow
  • Automated reverse engineering or software analysis tool development
  • Experience debugging software without source code
  • Knowledge of binary file structures and formats
  • Experience analyzing protocols or message structures
  • Knowledge of anti-reverse engineering techniques
  • Knowledge of intrusion detection and anti-malware systems and techniques

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $204,000 - $284,000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.

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