Junior 5G Vulnerability Researcher

CACI International Inc; Florham Park (NJ); On-site; USD 79,000 - 163,000; Full time

Job summary

CACI International Inc is seeking a Junior 5G Vulnerability Researcher to join our security team, focusing on protocol analysis and firmware reverse engineering within complex telecom stacks.

The role emphasizes independent research, tool development in Python, and wireless protocol understanding. Candidates should possess a systems background, experience with 3GPP protocols, and the ability to craft automated analysis tooling for national mobile infrastructure security.

Qualifications

• 3 years of professional experience in software exploitation, reverse engineering, or protocol development.
• Proficiency in software development (C/C++, Python).
• Working knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, SCTP, HTTP/2).
• Experience with disassembly tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, or Binary Ninja.
• Foundational understanding of binary analysis and memory corruption primitives.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent technical research and analyze complex software systems.
• Must be a US Citizen and able to obtain/maintain a security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Execute research into 3GPP protocols (NGAP, GTP, etc.) to identify crashes and logic flaws using stateful fuzzing techniques.
• Perform static and dynamic analysis on compiled telecom binaries and firmware to understand undocumented protocol logic.
• Support the development of custom Python3 scripts for protocol decoding and automating analysis of closed-box systems.
• Assist in mapping state machines within 5G session management flows using symbolic or concolic execution tools.
• Analyze signaling and data plane components to identify potential attack surfaces in 5G Core and RAN environments.
• Use debugging tools and packet analysis software (e.g., Wireshark) to inspect protocol traffic and hardware state.
• Document research findings and contribute to the development of technical security reports.

Skills

C/C++

Python

Networking protocols

Tools

IDA Pro

Ghidra

Binary Ninja

Job description

Job Title: Junior 5G Vulnerability Researcher

Job Category: Engineering

Time Type: Full time

Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None

Employee Type: Regular

Percentage of Travel Required: None

Type of Travel: None

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Vulnerability Researcher to join our 5G security team, focusing on protocol analysis and firmware reverse engineering. This role is for a practitioner with a strong systems background who is ready to take ownership of research tasks within complex telecommunications stacks. You will work as part of a high-performing group, identifying security flaws in 3GPP protocols and proprietary telecom binaries while developing the automated tooling necessary to secure national mobile infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Execute research into 3GPP protocols (NGAP, GTP, etc.) to identify crashes and logic flaws using stateful fuzzing techniques.
• Perform static and dynamic analysis on compiled telecom binaries and firmware to understand undocumented protocol logic.
• Support the development of custom Python3 scripts for protocol decoding and automating analysis of "closed-box" systems.
• Assist in mapping state machines within 5G session management flows using symbolic or concolic execution tJools.
• Analyze signaling and data plane components to identify potential attack surfaces in 5G Core and RAN environments.
• Use debugging tools and packet analysis software (e.g., Wireshark) to inspect protocol traffic and hardware state.
• Document research findings and contribute to the development of technical security reports.

Qualifications

Required:

• 3 years of professional experience in software exploitation, reverse engineering, or protocol development.
• Proficiency in software development (C/C++, Python).
• Working knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, SCTP, HTTP/2).
• Experience with disassembly tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, or Binary Ninja.
• Foundational understanding of binary analysis and memory corruption primitives.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent technical research and analyze complex software systems.
• Must be a US Citizen and able to obtain/maintain a security clearance

Desired

• An active TS SCI clearance.
• Experience with software-defined radio (SDR) or cellular testing equipment.
• Working knowledge of cellular networking protocols (3G, 4G, 5G).
• Familiarity with Linux-based telecom network functions.
• Participation in security research projects or CTFs with a focus on networking or pwnable challenges.

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.

What You Can Expect

A culture of integrity.

At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.

An environment of trust.

CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.

A focus on continuous growth.

Together, we will advance our nation’s most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.

Pay Range

There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.

The Proposed Salary Range For This Position Is

$79,400 - $162,700

CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.