Senior Vulnerability Researcher

Redhorsecorp; Herndon (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Job summary

Redhorse Corporation is seeking a Senior Vulnerability Researcher to advance national security objectives through advanced VR, reverse engineering, and exploitation capabilities. You will work autonomously, mentor junior staff, and contribute to critical defensive and offensive cyber initiatives.

The role emphasizes solving complex problems in a fast-paced environment supporting national security missions, with a focus on impactful research and clear communication to stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI security clearance.
• Seven (7)+ years of professional vulnerability research experience.
• Proficiency in programming in Windows and Linux/Unix environments.
• Languages include C, C++, Java, and JavaScript.
• Experience with reverse engineering tools (IDA Pro, OllyDbg, Windbg).
• Experience reverse engineering Windows/Linux apps and OS kernel modules.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with network protocol analysis and deep-packet inspection.
• Experience with mobile malware analysis (iOS/Android).
• Knowledge of software engineering focusing on workflow automation for security tools.

Responsibilities

• Apply VR techniques including fuzzing, RE, and online research to identify vulnerabilities and assess exploitability.
• Develop PoC software and creative solutions for diverse customer requirements.
• Perform vulnerability assessments of secure technologies to determine recoverable information.
• Manage customer expectations with proactive feedback and technical insights.
• Prepare and deliver concise presentations and reports for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify operational requirements.
• Shape CA requirements to align with broader goals.
• Synthesize information to develop innovative cyber solutions.
• Mentor junior personnel and foster continuous learning.

Skills

Vulnerability research

C

C++

Java

JavaScript

Reverse engineering

VE exploitation

Windows/Linux

Network protocol analysis

Malware analysis (mobile)

Workflow automation

Strong communication

Mentoring

Tools

IDA Pro

OllyDbg

WinDbg

Job description

About the Organization

Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. We are a solution-driven company delivering data insights and technology solutions to customers with missions critical to U.S. national interests. We’re looking for thoughtful, skilled professionals who thrive as trusted partners building technology-agnostic solutions and want to apply their talents supporting customers with difficult and important mission sets.

About the Role

Redhorse is transforming how the government utilizes data and technology. We are seeking a self-motivated Senior Vulnerability Researcher who is ready to solve some of the most challenging technical problems in a fast-paced environment supporting national security.

In this role, you will be a key driver of our cyber mission, applying advanced vulnerability research (VR), reverse engineering (RE), and vulnerability exploitation (VE) skills to support critical defensive and offensive cyber requirements. As a senior member of our team, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy, solving complex problems with minimal oversight while mentoring the next generation of technical talent. Your work will directly impact the safety and efficacy of national security operations.

Responsibilities

• Apply a variety of VR techniques—including fuzzing, RE, and online research—to identify vulnerabilities and determine exploitability.
• Develop proof-of-concept software and creative solutions to meet diverse customer requirements.
• Perform vulnerability assessments of secure technologies to determine if protected or inaccessible information is recoverable.
• Manage customer expectations by implementing proactive feedback mechanisms and providing technical insights.
• Prepare and deliver concise presentations and reports summarizing research findings for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify and communicate operational requirements.
• Shape Computer Architecture (CA) requirements to ensure they align with broader operational goals.
• Synthesize technical and operational information to develop innovative solutions for complex cyber challenges.
• Mentor junior personnel, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI security clearance.
• Seven (7)+ years of professional experience in vulnerability research.
• Proven expertise in programming within contemporary Windows and Linux/Unix environments.
• Proficiency in multiple languages including C, C++, Java, and JavaScript.
• Extensive experience using reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, OllyDbg, and Windbg.
• Demonstrated experience reverse engineering Windows/Linux applications and OS kernel modules.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
• Experience with network protocol analysis and deep-packet inspection.
• Static and dynamic malware analysis experience for mobile platforms, specifically iOS and Android.
• Knowledge of software engineering with a focus on workflow automation for existing security tools.
• Proficiency in identifying discreet, complex communications technologies that support investigative techniques.
• Advanced Vulnerability Exploitation (VE) capabilities, including understanding the relationship between analysis concepts and computational resource requirements.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range provided for this position represents the anticipated base salary for successful candidates. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, security clearance level, geographic location, market conditions, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, eligible employees may participate in Redhorse's comprehensive benefits programs and may be eligible for performance-based or other incentive compensation, where applicable.

Equal Opportunity

Redhorse Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Talent Acquisition at [e-mail]