Senior Vulnerability Researcher (Cloud & Containers)

CACI International Inc.; Florham Park (NJ); On-site; USD 113,000 - 238,000; Full time

Job summary

CACI International Inc. is seeking a Senior Vulnerability Researcher (Cloud & Containers) to lead security research on cloud-native architectures and container runtimes.

You will hunt for vulnerabilities in Kubernetes-based systems and contribute to national cybersecurity efforts with automated and manual analysis. The role requires deep expertise in Linux kernel internals, OCI runtimes, and memory analysis, with hands-on tooling in Python and disassembly/decompilation workflows.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional experience in vulnerability research, software exploitation, or low-level engineering.
• Proven track record of finding vulnerabilities in distributed systems, virtualization layers, or container runtimes.
• Experience with Kubernetes security architecture and service mesh implementations (Istio, Linkerd).
• Strong Python for scripting and automation; background in cloud provider security (AWS, Azure, or GCP).

Responsibilities

• Investigate edge-case behaviors in containerized environments and low-level system initialization logic to reveal hidden attack surfaces.
• Conduct deep-dive research into OCI runtimes (runc, crun) and Linux kernel primitives (namespaces, cgroups, eBPF) to identify breakout and privilege escalation paths.
• Develop custom tools and scripts (primarily in Python3) to automate research workflows, protocol decoding, and memory analysis.
• Document findings clearly and translate technical complexity into actionable reports for security and engineering teams.

Job description

Job Title: Senior Vulnerability Researcher (Cloud & Containers)Job Category: EngineeringTime Type: Full timeMinimum Clearance Required to Start: NoneEmployee Type: RegularPercentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%Type of Travel: Continental US* * *The Opportunity:We are seeking a Senior Vulnerability Researcher with deep expertise in cloud-native architecture, container runtimes, and advanced binary analysis/reverse engineering. This role is ideal for a low-level expert who thrives on technical ambiguity and enjoys hunting for vulnerabilities within the "DNA of the cloud." You will use automated reasoning and manual deep-dives to uncover escapes and logic flaws in Kubernetes infrastructure, playing a key role in evaluating the security of critical distributed systems and contributing directly to national cybersecurity efforts.Responsibilities:Investigate edge-case behaviors in containerized environments and low-level system initialization logic to reveal hidden attack surfaces.Conduct deep-dive research into OCI runtimes (runc, crun) and Linux kernel primitives (namespaces, cgroups, eBPF) to identify breakout and privilege escalation paths.Develop custom tools and scripts (primarily in Python3) to automate research workflows, protocol decoding, and memory analysis.Perform static and dynamic analysis on compiled binaries (Go, Rust, C++) using IDA Pro, Ghidra, or Binary Ninja to map undocumented logic and potential security issues.Build and maintain custom fuzzing harnesses (e.g., AFL++, libFuzzer) to stress-test gRPC interfaces, service mesh components, and microservices.Utilize concolic execution tools (e.g., Angr, Manticore) to automate the discovery of complex execution paths and bypass security checks.Document findings clearly and translate technical complexity into actionable reports for security and engineering teams.Qualifications:Required:7+ years of professional experience in vulnerability research, software exploitation, or low-level engineering.Proven track record of finding vulnerabilities in distributed systems, virtualization layers, or container runtimes.Experience with Kubernetes security architecture and service mesh implementations (Istio, Linkerd).Detailed understanding of Linux kernel internals, specifically namespaces, cgroups, and the container execution model.Strong command of Python for scripting and automation of research tasks.Background in cloud provider security (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and underlying hypervisor technology.Must be a US Citizen and able to obtain/maintain a security clearanceDesired:An active TS SCI clearance is highly desired.Expert-level proficiency in software development (Python, Go, Rust, and C/C++).Hands-on experience with disassembly and decompilation tools (e.g., IDA Pro, Ghidra, Binary Ninja) and debugging tools (GDB).Deep understanding of x86/ARM assembly and memory corruption primitives.Familiarity with hardware-assisted isolation technologies and TEEs (Trusted Execution Environments).Experience with automated bug-hunting techniques, including fuzzing and symbolic/concolic execution.Ability to build scalable security tooling and infrastructure to support analysis workflows in a team setting.-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:$113,200 - $237,800CACI 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.