1

Windows Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

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 ...

Reverse Engineering, Vulnerability Research, Malware Analysis, or CNO Tool Development * Computer Networking Fundamentals, Windows, and *NIX Operating Systems, X86(64) and ARM or MIPS architectures

Principal CNO Software Engineer

State College, PA · On-site

$132K - $177K/yr

Highly experienced in systems software development (Linux/Windows kernel drivers) * Successfully ... Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) * Familiar reading assembly / compiled ...

Highly experienced in systems software development (Linux/Windows kernel drivers) * Successfully ... Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) * Familiar reading assembly / compiled ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Windows Malware Reverse Engineer information

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.

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Windows Malware Reverse Engineer, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Windows Malware Reverse Engineer job openings:
Reverse Engineer Researcher

Reverse Engineer Researcher

Software Engineering Institute

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

About the role
The SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and process improvement. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve software-intensive systems. Our core purpose is to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities and develop or acquire the right software, defect free, within budget and on time, every time.
The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking an applicant for the role of a Reverse Engineer Researcher for the Threat Analysis directorate. The SEI is a federally funded research and development center at Carnegie Mellon University.
What you'll do
  • 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

Who you are
  • You have 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.

  • 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 balance rapid prototyping with maintainable tool development.

  • You have strong technical writing experience.

  • You recognize and deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive information.

  • You are able to handle continual shifting priorities.

  • You enjoy mentoring and training others as well as sharing knowledge.

  • You communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.

  • You have a willingness to travel to various locations to support the SEI's overall mission This includes sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion. Moderate Travel (15%)

  • You will be subject to a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance

You have 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 programminglanguages(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

Why work here?
  • Join a world-class organization that has significant impact on software

  • Work with cutting edge technologies and experts to solve tough problems for the government and the nation

  • Get 8% monthly contribution for your retirement, without having to contribute yourself

  • Get tuition benefits to CMU and other institutions for you and your dependent children

  • Enjoy a healthy work/life balance with flexible work arrangements and paid parental and military leave

  • Get access to university resources including mindfulness programs, childcare and back-up care benefits, a monthly transit benefit on WMATA, free transportation on the Pittsburgh Regional Transit System

  • Enjoy annual professional development opportunities; attend conferences and training or obtain a certification and get reimbursed for membership in professional societies

  • Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more

Location
Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance