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Windows Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in State College, PA

Zetier

Principal CNO Software Engineer

State College, PA · On-site

$131K - $176K/yr

... Windows kernel drivers) • Successfully developed cutting edge end-to-end cyber solutions • ... Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) • Familiar reading assembly ...

Zetier

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 ...

Zetier

Principal CNO Software Engineer

State College, PA

$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 ...

All JobsWindows Malware Reverse Engineer JobsWindows Malware Reverse Engineer Jobs in State College, PA

Windows Malware Reverse Engineer information

See State College, PA salary details

$80.2K

$133.3K

$190.7K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows malware reverse engineer in State College, PA is $133,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,000.00 and $174,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in State College, PA?

For Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Windows Malware Reverse Engineer job openings:

Windows Malware Reverse Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Malware Reverse Engineer job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,287 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Vulnerability Research Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for a self-motivated Vulnerability Researcher to join our Cyberspace Operations Research Department of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. The Cyberspace Operations Research Department provides technical expertise in adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to support system evaluation and provide security hardening support to various sponsors.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Research cutting edge techniques and technologies for system exploitation•
  • Leverage expertise in reverse engineering, vulnerability research, and software development to address established needs and investigate solutions to emerging requirements
  • Apply software engineering best practices to create proof-of-concept tools and configure test environments to perform demonstrations to sponsors and partners
  • Assist the Cyberspace Operations Research Department Head in maintaining relationships with sponsors through on-site technical discussions, preparation and presentation of technical materials, and project-related correspondence
  • Provide process enhancement for technical functionality evaluation, vulnerability analyses, cyberspace operations engineering, and penetration testing projects
  • Apply project management principles and methods to the leadership of tasks or projects
  • Provide guidance to lower-level engineers to foster professional growth

Additional responsibilities for higher level position includes:
  • Understand broad strategic objectives and contribute to them; nurture and maintain relationships with major customers/grantors of external research and development grant funding
  • Initiate new project concepts and seek funding; develop technical proposals and make presentations to customers/grant sponsors
  • Mentor department staff in the development technical, project, and business development skills

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • Documented application of reverse engineering and vulnerability testing tools (e.g. Ghidra/IDA, Kali Linux, Angr/AFL++, QEMU/Unicorn, etc)
  • Reverse engineering, vulnerability research, malware analysis, and/or CNO tool development
  • Computer networking fundamentals, Windows and *NIX operating systems, X86(64) and ARM or MIPS architectures
  • Cyber operations architecture and software engineering practices
  • Ability to express technical information clearly and concisely in documents and presentations for senior leaders to successfully comprehend and leverage for decision making
  • Active government security clearance at TS/SCI level with eligibility for special accesses

Preferred skills/experience areas include:
  • Cybersecurity exploit development and test environment configuration
  • Cybersecurity penetration testing / cybersecurity Red Team testing / white hat hacking
  • Military cyberspace operations or computer network operations
  • Demonstrated history of successful project initiation efforts
  • Agile software development methodology and tools
  • Atlassian products (e.g., JIRA, Confluence)

Your working location will be fully on-site located at in State College, PA. Options exist for occasional hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. This position will require periodic travel to remote locations in support of testing as part of a small team of researchers, engineers, and technologists.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Cyber Security Engineer (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Cyber Security Engineer (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $127,080.00 - $277,200.00. This salary range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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