Principal Vulnerability Researcher with Security Clearance

Nightwing; Annapolis (MD); On-site; USD 99,000 - 206,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401k

Paid time off

Job summary

Nightwing is seeking a Vulnerability Researcher to use advanced systems to identify zero-day vulnerabilities and analyze program behaviors. You will develop, test, and debug security-focused software while researching new vulnerability techniques.

The role requires a BS in a technical field with 10 years of experience, strong C/C++/Python, and expertise in reverse engineering and debugging tools. TS/SCI with polygraph clearance and US citizenship are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in CS/CE/EE or related field with 10 years of practical tech experience.
• Solid understanding of software development and knowledge in C, C++, or Python.
• Experience with program analysis, reverse engineering, and debugging tools (IDA Pro, Ghidra, GDB, Binary Ninja, angr, BAP, windbg).
• Knowledge of Windows or Linux environments.
• Knowledge of Assembly (x86/x64).
• Must have a current TS/SCI with polygraph clearance; US citizenship required.
• Understanding of OS internals is a plus.
• Experience with exploit development or practical security labs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Use advanced systems to find zero-day vulnerabilities and analyze, design, and identify programmatic behaviors.
• Develop, test, and debug software applications in security-focused contexts.
• Research data and propose new vulnerability techniques and design ideas.
• Apply terminology like debugging and fuzzing to practical work; assess network protocols and socket code for vulnerabilities.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Software development

Reverse engineering

Debugging tools

Windows

Linux

Assembly (x86/x64)

TS/SCI with poly clearance

Education

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science / Computer Engineering / Electrical Engineering

Tools

IDA Pro

Ghidra

GDB

Binary Ninja

angr

BAP

Windbg

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets. Job Description Vulnerability Researcher: Use advanced systems to find zero-day (O-day) vulnerabilities. Responsible for analyzing, designing, and identifying programmatic behaviors. Have an opportunity to develop, test, and debug software applications. Research data and provide new design ideas for vulnerability techniques. Understands terminologies like debugging and fuzzing and applying it into your work. Role Type:
This position is an onsite role Required Skills: * Typically requires a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field at 10 years of practical experience in a technology-related environment

• We require you to have a solid understanding of software development and knowledge in any of the following: C, C++, or Python
• Experience with program analysis, reverse engineering, and debugging tools (e.g., angr, BAP, IDA Pro, Binary Ninja, gdb, Ghidra, windbg)
• Knowledge of Windows or Linux
• Knowledge of Assembly (x86/x64)
• Must have a current TS/SCI with polygraph security clearance. Because the position requires a clearance a ll candidates must be US citizens. Desired Skills: * Understanding of OS Internals (any major OS)
• Experience with exploit development, Hack The Box, etc...
• Experience reading or writing assembly
• Understanding of network protocols, application layer, be able to read/write socket code
• Understanding of exploit mitigations such as DEP and ASLR Relevant Certifications (Not Required): Relevant Cybersecurity Certifications (e.g. oscp, oscE, OSWP, OSEP, OSWE, OSED, OSEE, GPEN, GWAPT, GXPN, CISSP) What We Offer: Whether you're just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement and work/life benefits; career development and recognition programs. Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation's most mission impactful initiatives.
  

When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world's most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions. At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team. The salary associated with this position ( $99,000-$206,000 ) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards. Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays and additional insurances. At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team. Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.