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Vulnerability Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

i3

Vulnerability Research Engineer

Washington, DC

$115K - $181K/yr

Overview i3 is seeking a Vulnerability Research Engineer to support the Naval Research Laboratory's Tactical Electronic Warfare Division. You will reverse engineer and analyze software and build ...

Nightwing

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will ...

Nwis

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will ...

KBR

Vulnerability Researcher

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field * 4-9 years of experience in vulnerability research, reverse engineering, or exploit ...

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How much do vulnerability research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for vulnerability research engineer in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vulnerability research engineer do?

A Vulnerability Research Engineer is responsible for identifying, analyzing, and understanding security weaknesses in software, hardware, or networks. Their work involves researching new and existing vulnerabilities, developing proof-of-concept exploits, and providing recommendations to mitigate risks. They often collaborate with security teams, developers, and sometimes even vendors to improve overall system security. This role requires strong technical skills in areas like reverse engineering, programming, and cybersecurity protocols.

What are some typical challenges faced by vulnerability research engineers when analyzing new software or systems?

Vulnerability Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as dealing with obfuscated or poorly documented code, reverse engineering proprietary protocols, and staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies. They frequently need to use advanced debugging tools and dynamic analysis techniques to uncover hidden vulnerabilities. Collaboration with software developers and security teams is essential to ensure findings are accurately communicated and mitigated. This role requires adaptability and persistence, as each new target may present unique and complex security issues.

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

To thrive as a Vulnerability Research Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, reverse engineering, and cybersecurity principles, often demonstrated by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Proficiency with tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, debuggers, and scripting languages like Python is essential, as are certifications like OSCP or CEH. Analytical thinking, persistence, and clear technical communication are vital soft skills for uncovering vulnerabilities and collaborating with teams. These skills enable effective identification, analysis, and reporting of security flaws, which are critical for protecting systems from cyber threats.
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What job categories do people searching Vulnerability Research Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vulnerability Research Engineer jobs are:
Vulnerability Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vulnerability Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.

Cyber Vulnerability Research Engineer

Maximus

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Maximus rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 300 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 481 rated business services

Job description

General information
Job Posting Title
Cyber Vulnerability Research Engineer
Date
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
City
San Antonio
State
TX
Country
United States
Working time
Full-time
Description & Requirements
Vulnerability Researcher
Maximus conducts advanced vulnerability research to strengthen Department of War (DoW) systems. This role focuses on discovering, analyzing, and validating vulnerabilities across hardware and software platforms.
This position is contingent upon award.
Maximus TCS (Technology and Consulting Services) Internal Job Profile Code: TCS053, T5, Band 8
Job-Specific Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Identify zero-day and known vulnerabilities
- Conduct reverse engineering and exploit development
- Analyze complex hardware and software weaknesses
- Coordinate responsible vulnerability disclosure activities
Job-Specific Minimum Requirements:
- Active Top Secret / SCI (TS/SCI) security clearance
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related technical field
- 10+ years of vulnerability research experience
- Required DoD 8140 certifications for DCWF 541 - CISA, CSM, GCIH or GSNA
- Experience with the following tools and techniques:
- Reverse engineering tools (e.g., Ghidra, IDA Pro, Binary Ninja)
- Malware analysis frameworks and sandbox environments
- Vulnerability research and exploit analysis tooling
Preferred Skills and Qualifications:
- Bug bounty or coordinated disclosure experience
- Assembly-level analysis and low-level debugging proficiency
- Prior service supporting DoW cyber research missions
#techjobs #clearance #veteranspage
Minimum Requirements
TCS053, T5, Band 8
EEO Statement
Maximus is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics.
Pay Transparency
Maximus compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to job location, a candidate's education, training, experience, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value analysis including seniority and merit systems, as well as internal pay alignment. Annual salary is just one component of Maximus's total compensation package. Other rewards may include short- and long-term incentives as well as program-specific awards. Additionally, Maximus provides a variety of benefits to employees, including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays and paid time off. Compensation ranges may differ based on contract value but will be commensurate with job duties and relevant work experience. An applicant's salary history will not be used in determining compensation. Maximus will comply with regulatory minimum wage rates and exempt salary thresholds in all instances.
Accommodations
Maximus provides reasonable accommodations to individuals requiring assistance during any phase of the employment process due to a disability, medical condition, or physical or mental impairment. If you require assistance at any stage of the employment process-including accessing job postings, completing assessments, or participating in interviews,-please contact People Operations at applicantaccom@maximus.com.
Minimum Salary
$
120,000.00
Maximum Salary
$
160,000.00

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