Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...
Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...
Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...
Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
San Diego, CA · On-site
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
San Diego, CA · On-site
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Quick apply
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Principal Software Reverse Engineer
$204K - $284K/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
Cyber Reverse Engineer - Monterey, CA
$78.85K - $243.59K/yr
Reverse engineering of binary applications, protocols and formats. * Design and development of software applications. * Document and communicate technical research results effectively to technical ...
Cyber Reverse Engineer - Monterey, CA
$78.85K - $243.59K/yr
Reverse engineering of binary applications, protocols and formats. * Design and development of software applications. * Document and communicate technical research results effectively to technical ...
Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems
Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Senior Reverse Engineer
$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
Senior Reverse Engineer
$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
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
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
Senior Reverse Engineer
$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
Quick apply
Senior Reverse Engineer
$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
Senior Reverse Engineer with Security Clearance
$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
Senior Reverse Engineer with Security Clearance
$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
Senior Scanning & Reverse Engineer
Cypress, CA · Hybrid
$112.41K - $168.61K/yr
... reverse engineering, and CAD surfacing. * Proficiency with CMMs, laser trackers, structured-light scanners, photogrammetry systems. * Advanced skills in scan processing and surfacing software ...
Senior Scanning & Reverse Engineer
Cypress, CA · Hybrid
$112.41K - $168.61K/yr
... reverse engineering, and CAD surfacing. * Proficiency with CMMs, laser trackers, structured-light scanners, photogrammetry systems. * Advanced skills in scan processing and surfacing software ...
... reverse engineering • Experience in identification and remediation of security vulnerabilities • Experience using Large Language Models (LLMs) to augment reverse engineering workflows and ...
... reverse engineering • Experience in identification and remediation of security vulnerabilities • Experience using Large Language Models (LLMs) to augment reverse engineering workflows and ...
... reverse engineering • Experience in identification and remediation of security vulnerabilities • Experience using Large Language Models (LLMs) to augment reverse engineering workflows and ...
... reverse engineering • Experience in identification and remediation of security vulnerabilities • Experience using Large Language Models (LLMs) to augment reverse engineering workflows and ...
Reverse-engineer undocumented or poorly documented legacy systems to support ongoing product development and maintenance. Essential Qualifications: * Proven experience as a Software Architect, not ...
Reverse-engineer undocumented or poorly documented legacy systems to support ongoing product development and maintenance. Essential Qualifications: * Proven experience as a Software Architect, not ...
Reverse-engineer undocumented or poorly documented legacy systems to support ongoing product development and maintenance. Essential Qualifications: Proven experience as a Software Architect, not just ...
Reverse-engineer undocumented or poorly documented legacy systems to support ongoing product development and maintenance. Essential Qualifications: Proven experience as a Software Architect, not just ...
Software Reverse Engineering information
See California salary details
$76.63 - $78.96
8% of jobs
$78.96 - $81.29
9% of jobs
$83.32 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$81.29 - $83.61
8% of jobs
$83.61 - $85.94
9% of jobs
$85.94 - $88.27
9% of jobs
The median wage is $89.57 / hr.
$88.27 - $90.60
9% of jobs
$90.60 - $92.93
9% of jobs
$92.93 - $95.26
9% of jobs
$95.84 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$95.26 - $97.59
8% of jobs
$97.59 - $99.92
9% of jobs
$99.92 - $102.25
9% of jobs
$76
$90
$102
How much do software reverse engineering jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for software reverse engineering 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Reverse Engineer, and why are they important?
To excel as a Software Reverse Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, excellent programming skills (especially in C/C++ and assembly), and a deep understanding of operating systems and software architectures. Familiarity with disassemblers, debuggers (like IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg), and knowledge of malware analysis and security certifications such as OSCP or CEH are highly valuable. Analytical thinking, persistence, and attention to detail are critical soft skills for uncovering hidden logic and solving complex technical puzzles. These skills are essential for identifying vulnerabilities, ensuring software integrity, and enhancing cybersecurity defenses.
What are some common challenges faced by software reverse engineers when analyzing complex applications?
Software reverse engineers often encounter challenges such as obfuscated code, anti-debugging techniques, and proprietary file formats designed to prevent analysis. Navigating these obstacles requires strong problem-solving skills, familiarity with various tools (like disassemblers and debuggers), and a deep understanding of operating system internals. Additionally, reverse engineers frequently collaborate with security analysts and developers to interpret findings and propose solutions, making communication skills and teamwork essential for success in this role.
What is software reverse engineering?
Software reverse engineering is the process of analyzing software to understand its structure, functionality, and operation, often without access to the original source code. This technique is commonly used to discover how a program works, identify vulnerabilities, ensure compatibility, analyze malware, or recover lost documentation. Professionals use specialized tools to deconstruct executable files, inspect their components, and reconstruct higher-level representations. While reverse engineering is legal for purposes like security research and interoperability, it may be restricted by laws and software licenses in some jurisdictions.
What is the difference between Software Reverse Engineering vs Malware Analyst?
| Aspect | Software Reverse Engineering | Malware Analyst |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Knowledge of programming, debugging, and disassembly tools | Knowledge of malware behavior, analysis tools, and cybersecurity certifications |
| Work Environment | Software development, security research, or cybersecurity teams | Cybersecurity firms, government agencies, or security teams |
| Industry Usage | Software security, vulnerability research, software debugging | Threat detection, malware analysis, incident response |
While both roles involve analyzing software, Software Reverse Engineering focuses on understanding software code and behavior, often for security testing or debugging. Malware Analysts specifically analyze malicious software to identify threats and develop defenses. Both require technical skills but serve different security objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Software Reverse Engineering jobs in California? For Software Reverse Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Reverse Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Software Reverse Engineering jobs in California are:
Job description
Job Summary:
STR is hiring a Principal Software Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. This position offers an excellent opportunity to work at the nexus of computers and real-world physical systems, leading a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions.
Responsibilities:
• 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
Qualifications:
Required:
• Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance
• U.S. citizenship
• 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
Preferred:
• 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
Company:
STR is built on people & technology platforms tackling tough problems in cybersecurity, distributed sensing & artificial. Founded in 2010, the company is headquartered in Woburn, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
STR is hiring a Principal Software Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. This position offers an excellent opportunity to work at the nexus of computers and real-world physical systems, leading a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions.
Responsibilities:
• 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
Qualifications:
Required:
• Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance
• U.S. citizenship
• 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
Preferred:
• 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
Company:
STR is built on people & technology platforms tackling tough problems in cybersecurity, distributed sensing & artificial. Founded in 2010, the company is headquartered in Woburn, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.