Windows Vulnerability Research Engineer: Exploit & RE

Nightwing; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The role requires deep expertise in C, C++, and Python, plus hands-on vulnerability research and reverse engineering experience.

The candidate should hold a Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance and have a proven track record working with Windows operating systems and exploit development.

Qualifications

• Experience with Windows vulnerability research, reverse engineering, and exploit development.
• Strong programming skills in C, C++, and Python with debugging experience.
• Proven ability to work with Windows architectures, safety, and security mechanisms.

Responsibilities

• Conduct Windows vulnerability research, reverse engineering, and exploit development.
• Develop, test, and debug software components in C, C++, and Python.
• Analyze Windows internals and security mechanisms to support mission-critical systems.
• Collaborate with teams on advanced research and exploitation efforts.

Skills

C programming

C++ programming

Python

Vulnerability research

Reverse engineering

Exploit development

Windows OS knowledge

Job description

Onsite Customer

Sterling, VA

Full time

JR101270

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.

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in low-level programming, vulnerability research, and exploit development, along with a strong background in secure software analysis.

Required Qualifications

In addition to meeting all baseline technical requirements for contractor technical personnel, the candidate must possess, at a minimum , the following:

Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance

At least three (3) years of professional experience in each of the following:

Developing, testing, and debugging software in C

Developing, testing, and debugging software in C++

Developing, testing, and debugging software in Python

Demonstrated hands-on experience in:

Vulnerability Research (VR)

Reverse Engineering (RE)

Exploit development and exploitation

Proven expertise working with Windows operating systems , including internal architectures, debugging, and security mechanisms

Preferred Skills (Optional – if you want to add them later)

Experience with Windows kernel internals

Familiarity with common reverse engineering tools and debuggers

Understanding of modern exploit mitigations and bypass techniques

Experience supporting mission-critical or government systems

Please Note: This position is contingent upon award

Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) 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.

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.

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.