Malware Reverse Engineer Researcher

2 weeks ago

Washington, DC, United States Software Engineering Institute Full time

The Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is at the forefront of enhancing software engineering principles and practices, serving as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and process improvement. We collaborate with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to advance software-intensive systems. Our mission is to empower organizations to develop or acquire the right software, defect-free, within budget and on time, consistently.

The CERT Division of the SEI is looking for a highly motivated Reverse Engineer Researcher to join our Threat Analysis directorate. SEI operates as a federally funded research and development center affiliated with Carnegie Mellon University.

Key Responsibilities

As a Reverse Engineer Researcher, you will:

  • Analyze and reverse engineer malicious code to support high-impact clients.
  • Innovate and develop new analysis methods and tools.
  • Identify and address emerging complex threats in the cybersecurity landscape.
  • Engage in comprehensive documentation of your findings through reports and presentations.
  • Investigate the integration of artificial intelligence in reverse engineering efforts.
  • Share your expertise with the broader security community through collaborations and publications.
Qualifications

You are an ideal candidate if you possess:

  • A BS in Computer Science or a related field with eight years of experience, an MS with five years, or a PhD with two years of experience.
  • A passion for tackling complex malware analysis and reverse engineering challenges.
  • An analytical mindset and a keen desire to understand software intricacies.
  • The ability to balance rapid prototyping with sustainable tool development.
  • Strong technical writing skills.
  • Experience handling sensitive information confidentially.
  • The capability to manage shifting priorities effectively.
  • A commitment to mentoring, training others, and sharing knowledge.
  • Effective communication skills tailored to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • A willingness to travel periodically for the SEI's mission, including to sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings (approximately 15% travel).

Candidates must undergo a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of Defense security clearance.

Skills/Experience Required

Demonstrated experience and knowledge in:

  • Reverse engineering software binaries across various architectures at both user and kernel levels.
  • Utilizing static analysis tools (e.g., IDA Pro, NSA Ghidra, Binary Ninja).
  • Employing user-level and kernel-level debuggers (e.g., x32dbg, x64dbg, gdb, WinDbg).
  • Proficiency in native programming languages (e.g., C/C++) and high-level programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, GoLang).
  • Understanding software engineering and design principles.
  • Firmware and device driver development.
  • Knowledge of malware tradecraft and threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
  • Creating malware signatures independent of detection technologies.
  • Understanding operating system concepts and binary file formats (e.g., PE, ELF, Mach-O).
  • Using internet protocols and network analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, netcat).
  • Compiler theory, cryptography, and malware deobfuscation techniques.
  • Mobile device development and reverse engineering practices.
  • Utilizing malware sandboxes or instrumentation frameworks (e.g., Frida, QEMU, Unicorn Engine).
  • A foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and machine learning applications in reverse engineering and malware analysis.
Why Join Us?

Become part of a world-class organization making a significant impact on software and cybersecurity:

  • Work with cutting-edge technologies and experts to solve challenging government and national issues.
  • Enjoy an 8% monthly retirement contribution without personal input.
  • Access tuition benefits for you and your dependents at CMU and other institutions.
  • Experience a healthy work/life balance with flexible work options and paid parental/military leave.
  • Leverage university resources including mindfulness programs, childcare support, and transit benefits.
  • Engage in annual professional development opportunities, including conferences, training, and membership reimbursement.
  • Possibility for relocation assistance and more.

Location: Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PA

Position Type: Full-time

Pay Basis: Salary

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