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Vulnerability Researcher Contractor Jobs in Colorado

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Vulnerability Researcher Contractor information

What does a vulnerability researcher contractor do?

A Vulnerability Researcher Contractor is an information security professional who specializes in identifying, analyzing, and documenting security vulnerabilities in software, systems, or networks. They are often hired on a temporary or project basis to assess the security posture of an organization or specific products. Their responsibilities may include conducting penetration tests, reverse engineering software, developing proof-of-concept exploits, and providing recommendations for mitigating discovered vulnerabilities. Contractors in this role typically work independently or as part of a security team and may present their findings to stakeholders or assist in developing security patches.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vulnerability researcher contractor?

To thrive as a Vulnerability Researcher Contractor, you need a deep understanding of computer systems, networking, programming languages (such as C/C++, Python), and a strong background in cybersecurity, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications like OSCP or CEH. Familiarity with vulnerability assessment tools (e.g., IDA Pro, Burp Suite, Metasploit), reverse engineering platforms, and bug tracking systems is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the accurate identification, documentation, and mitigation of security vulnerabilities, which are crucial for protecting organizational assets.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics for a vulnerability researcher contractor within cybersecurity teams?

As a Vulnerability Researcher Contractor, you’ll often work closely with internal security teams, developers, and sometimes external clients to identify, analyze, and document security flaws. Despite being a contractor, you’ll participate in regular team meetings, share findings, and sometimes assist in developing proof-of-concept exploits or remediation guidance. The role requires strong communication skills, as you’ll need to clearly explain technical vulnerabilities to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Contract positions may also require rapid onboarding and adaptability to different workflows, making flexibility and proactive communication essential.

What is the difference between Vulnerability Researcher Contractor vs Penetration Tester?

AspectVulnerability Researcher ContractorPenetration Tester
CredentialsCertifications like OSCP, CEH, CISSP often preferredSimilar certifications, often including OSCP, CEH, GPEN
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, analyzing vulnerabilities in systems and softwarePractical testing, simulating attacks to identify security gaps
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, cybersecurity companies, freelance rolesSecurity firms, internal security teams, consulting roles
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research vs active testing rolesDistinguishing between research and hands-on attack simulation

While both roles involve cybersecurity expertise, Vulnerability Researcher Contractors focus on discovering and analyzing vulnerabilities through research, whereas Penetration Testers actively simulate attacks to evaluate security defenses. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their core activities differ: research versus practical testing.

What are popular job titles related to Vulnerability Researcher Contractor jobs in Colorado?

For Vulnerability Researcher Contractor jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vulnerability Researcher Contractor jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Vulnerability Researcher Contractor jobs in Colorado are:

Vulnerability Researcher Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vulnerability Researcher Contractor job openings in Colorado as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Space RCO Senior Test Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.
Engineering Professional Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

MTSI is searching for a Senior Test Engineer (TE) to support development of first-of-kind space systems and missions. This handpicked candidate must possess technical expertise and experience with developing, designing, building, and integrating space hardware and software. In this position, you will provide System Engineering Technical Assistance (SETA) to the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO).

The Space RCO program office, located at Kirtland AFB, NM, is a small, streamlined organization with dedicated, organic acquisition support functions: contracting, financial management, human resources, security, program management and technical engineering support that are critical in enabling the rapid response required for classified space programs. The mission is to develop and deliver operationally dominant space capabilities at the speed of warfighting relevance in response to Commander, U.S. Space Command requirements

A successful candidate should be a leader and problem solver with a proven ability to deliver superior results as part of a high performing team in a high-profile, fast-paced environment. TE Principal Duty You will work in a small, highly empowered team where every team member is directly responsible for the success of the program. Engineering responsibilities span technology domains including space rated hardware, software, sensors, and processors in an extremely fast-paced, responsive development environment.

This SETA candidate will provide in-depth test background on satellite vehicle bus, subsystems, and/or ground systems to improve program office insight into state-of-the art commercial and legacy mission systems, and C2 requirements and capabilities. You must apply advanced principles, theories, and concepts for highly classified systems, while also effectively communicating complex results with management and executive leadership. SETA Role and Responsibilities: Supports design, interpretation, and analysis of technical solutions to complex discipline-specific testing of space vehicles Plans and performs test research, development, and other assignments in conformance with design, engineering, and customer specifications Evaluates system architecture and component testing to eliminate unnecessary redundancy and align capabilities across multiple programs and/or agencies Provides technical expertise for performance analysis, test plan design and test scenarios for functional testing, security testing, and vulnerability analysis of ground and space operations tools and capabilities Responsible for the technical/engineering planning and execution of major and minor testing necessary on project(s) Leads authoring, evaluation and/or execution of program test and evaluation master plan as well as system acceptance planning; interfaces with multiple mission partners, overseeing test and system engineering working groups Coordinates with multiple partners/agencies to ensure test communities support delivery milestones.

Work on high-visibility or mission critical aspects of a given program and perform all functional duties independently Oversee the efforts of less senior staff and/or be responsible for the efforts of all staff assigned to a specific job Translate complex ideas and data into simple, actionable recommendations or easily differentiated courses of action Communicate clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy-oral and written Qualifications Required skills: Minimum 10+ years DoD/IC, or relevant industry work experience Proven experience and/or qualifications in testing satellite systems Understanding of operational environment and corresponding mission user needs Knowledge of space system engineering, development, and manufacturing Experience in DoD program management including program development and transition Experience with Integrated Master Schedules, and risk management Experience with Statements of Work (SOW) and Performance Work Statements (PWS) Desired skills: 5+ years of relevant DoD and/or Industry work experience with SAP and/or SCI Operational experience as a space systems operator System Engineering Technical Assistance (SETA) to Government program office Experience with rapid prototyping Experience with integrated air, space, and cyberspace capabilities Experience developing, deploying, and maintaining ground mission planning architecture and software Experience with ACAT I/II level acquisition programs Experience using multivariable optimization in mission planning software systems Experience in planning and executing test campaigns for space systems Fluency with IC organizations Education Minimum Requirements: An applicable engineering degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or possess a Professional Engineering license MA/MS/ME degree Clearance: Active TOP SECRET clearance with sensitive compartmentalized information (SCI) and special access program (SAP) eligibility (no less than 2 years total SAP and/or SCI environment experience, with 1-year total within last 5 years) and willingness to submit to a Counter-Intelligence polygraph Candidate must maintain a TS/SCI clearance as a condition of employment Location/Travel Requirements: Full-time, on site in vicinity of Peterson SFB, CO, and will require travel up to 25% of time within the continental United States The pay range for this position in Colorado is $170,000/year to $200,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract rates, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. This information is provided per the Colorado Equal Pay Act.

Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site. #MTSI #LI-MW2.

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