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Windows Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Cmu

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA

You enjoy working on emerging and complex malware analysis and reverse engineering problems. * You have an analytical mindset and deep curiosity about how software works. * You have the ability to ...

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Windows Malware Reverse Engineer information

What does a Windows Malware Reverse Engineer do?

A Windows Malware Reverse Engineer analyzes malicious software designed to target Windows operating systems. Their primary tasks include dissecting malware to understand how it works, identifying its behavior and purpose, and determining how it infects systems. They use specialized tools and techniques such as disassemblers, debuggers, and virtual environments to safely analyze and decode malware. The insights gained help develop detection methods, improve cybersecurity defenses, and assist in incident response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Windows Malware Reverse Engineer?

To thrive as a Windows Malware Reverse Engineer, you need strong knowledge of Windows internals, assembly programming, and malware analysis techniques, usually backed by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity. Proficiency with tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, OllyDbg, and familiarity with common malware frameworks and relevant certifications such as GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for unraveling complex threats. These competencies are crucial for identifying, understanding, and mitigating advanced malware threats that target Windows environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Windows Malware Reverse Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Windows Malware Reverse Engineers often face challenges such as dealing with heavily obfuscated code, rapidly evolving malware techniques, and anti-analysis mechanisms designed to thwart reverse engineering efforts. These challenges require staying up-to-date with the latest tools, regularly practicing with new malware samples, and collaborating with peers to share insights. Building a strong foundation in Windows internals, assembly language, and using debuggers or disassemblers like IDA Pro or Ghidra can help overcome these obstacles and improve overall analysis efficiency.

What is the difference between Windows Malware Reverse Engineer vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectWindows Malware Reverse EngineerCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsKnowledge of reverse engineering, malware analysis, programming skills, certifications like GREM or GREMSecurity certifications like CISSP, CEH, or Security+; broader cybersecurity knowledge
Work EnvironmentSpecialized labs, malware analysis environments, often in security firms or R&D teamsSecurity operations centers, corporate IT teams, or government agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily in cybersecurity, malware research, threat intelligenceAcross industries for threat detection, incident response, and security policy enforcement

While both roles require cybersecurity knowledge, Windows Malware Reverse Engineers focus on dissecting malicious software to understand its mechanics, whereas Cybersecurity Analysts monitor and respond to security threats across organizations. The roles often overlap in skills but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

Can you reverse engineer malware?

A Windows Malware Reverse Engineer specializes in analyzing malicious software to understand its behavior, origin, and impact. This process involves using tools like debuggers and disassemblers, and requires strong knowledge of assembly language, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles. Reverse engineering malware is a complex task that demands technical skill, patience, and adherence to legal and ethical standards.

How much do Windows Malware Reverse Engineers make?

Windows Malware Reverse Engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced skills in reverse engineering tools and malware analysis can lead to higher salaries, especially in cybersecurity-focused organizations.

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Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs near you

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Summary:
Carnegie Mellon University is a leading institution in software engineering and computer security, seeking a Reverse Engineer Researcher for the Threat Analysis directorate. The role involves reverse engineering malicious code, developing analysis methods, and collaborating within the security community to address emerging threats.
Responsibilities:
• Reverse engineer malicious code in support of high-impact customers, design and develop new analysis methods and tools, work to identify and address emerging and complex threats, and effectively participate in the broader security community
• Perform in-depth reverse engineering of malicious code, document and transition results in reports, presentations, and technical exchanges
• Explore ways to use artificial intelligence to support of reverse engineering and apply reverse engineering practices to artificial intelligence systems
• Design, prototype, and transition new analysis methods and tools
• Identify and document emerging and complex active security threats
• Participate in the broader security community through collaboration, papers, and presentations
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS in Computer Science or related discipline with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience.
• Enjoy working on emerging and complex malware analysis and reverse engineering problems.
• Have an analytical mindset and deep curiosity about how software works.
• Ability to balance rapid prototyping with maintainable tool development.
• Strong technical writing experience.
• Recognize and deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive information.
• Able to handle continual shifting priorities.
• Enjoy mentoring and training others as well as sharing knowledge.
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.
• Willingness to travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission including sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion.
• Subject to a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.
• Experience with or knowledge of reverse engineering software binaries for a variety of architectures, both at the user level and kernel level.
• Static analysis tools (e.g. IDA Pro, NSA Ghidra, Binary Ninja).
• User-level and kernel-level debuggers (e.g. x32dbg, x64dbg, gdb, WinDbg).
• Native programming languages (e.g. C/C++).
• High-level programming languages (e.g. Java, Python, GoLang, etc.).
• Software engineering and design concepts.
• Firmware and device driver development.
• Malware tradecraft and threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
• Malware signature creation and use, independent of detection technology.
• Operating system concepts and internals and binary file formats (e.g. PE, ELF, Mach-O, etc.).
• Internet Protocols and network analysis tools (e.g. Wireshark, netcat, etc.).
• Compiler theory, cryptography, and malware deobfuscation techniques.
• Mobile device development and reverse engineering.
• Malware sandboxes or instrumentation frameworks (e.g., Frida, QEMU, Unicorn Engine).
• General understanding and experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning and using artificial intelligence to support reverse engineering and malware analysis.
Company:
Carnegie Mellon University is a research university offering programs and research across engineering, science, arts, and business. Founded in 1900, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 5001-10000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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