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Windows Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

... Windows and Unix-like operating systems. * Experience conducting security-focused source code reviews (e.g., Python, Java, Rust). * Experience in reverse engineering thick-client and mobile ...

Senior IT Support Specialist

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$75K - $110K/yr

Experience Installing and troubleshooting issues with software, including MS Office, Windows Server ... Installing and supporting security products like endpoint and anti-virus/malware protection * Basic ...

Senior IT Support Specialist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Experience Installing and troubleshooting issues with software, including MS Office, Windows Server ... Installing and supporting security products like endpoint and anti-virus/malware protection * Basic ...

This role sits at the intersection of security operations, detection engineering, security ... Participate in incident response activities, including malware investigations, insider threat ...

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Windows Malware Reverse Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$84.5K

$140.4K

$200.9K

How much do windows malware reverse engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows malware reverse engineer in Chicago, IL is $140,394.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $183,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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Senior Associate, Information Security - Forensics

Starcom Mediavest Group Germany Gmbh

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$120K/yr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Senior Associate, Information Security - Forensics

The Senior Associate, Information Security - Forensics is part of a global team and is responsible for incident response of cyber security incidents that are associated with our businesses, clients, and vendors; is technically skilled and ensures incident containment, remediation, and closure. This individual will be expected to work closely with the legal, data privacy, business, and client teams. They should be comfortable with interacting with senior executives, including C-level staff.

Responsibilities
  • Incident Commander to lead investigation and response of cyber security incidents.
  • Analyze compromised/potentially compromised systems utilizing forensics tools.
  • Coordinate evidence/data gathering and document security incident reports.
  • Manage, review, and present written and oral reports in a pertinent, concise, and accurate manner for distribution to management.
  • Maintain current knowledge of tools and best practices in advanced persistent threats, tools, techniques, procedures of attackers, forensics, and incident response.
  • Perform complex forensic investigations into system breaches, data leaks, and system weaknesses.
  • Provide technical expertise to staff on security incident monitoring, triage, response, threat & vulnerability management, and security analysis.
  • Provide strategic direction on types of Incident Management activities that will drive efficiencies across company, including automation with AI tools.
Qualifications
  • EDR Experience- CrowdStrike and/or SentinelOne with experience investigating and analyzing malware and other malicious activity.
  • Experience with forensics tools such as FTK, EnCase, Autopsy to collect and analyze file system artifacts, process history, application artifacts, memory collection and analysis for physical and cloud systems (Windows, Mac, Linux).
  • 4 or more years of experience in an analytical role of either forensics analyst (Linux, Windows, or MacOS), threat analyst, incident response, SOC analyst, or security engineer/ consultant.
  • Experience with cloud environments such as: Azure, AWS, GCP โ€“ knowing how to collect and analyze logs from Guard Duty/ Defender and CloudTrail, etc.
  • Familiarity with the MITRE ATT&CK or related frameworks.
  • Experience developing and managing incident response programs with focus on efficiency through AI development.
  • Strong communication skills with confidence leading Incident Response calls with different stakeholders; followed by producing detailed incident reports.
  • Proficient in social engineering, phishing, and related fraud schemes.
  • Strong general knowledge of security concepts and expertise in network and web application security issues.
  • Experience with a scripting language such as Python, Bash, PowerShell, or other scripting language in an incident handling environment.

Salary Range: $100-120K/yr