Jobs Companies Nightwing Linux Reverse Engineer / Vulnerability Researcher

About this Linux Reverse Engineer / Vulnerability Researcher role at Nightwing

Nightwing · Onsite · Sterling, VA

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 Linux Reverse Engineer / Vulnerability Researcher (VRER) to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts against native Linux applications. The ideal candidate will have deep technical expertise in low-level software analysis, vulnerability discovery, and exploit development across multiple architectures.

All technical personnel must meet baseline technical requirements and demonstrate strong analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills in complex Linux environments.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform reverse engineering of native Linux applications to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses

  • Develop, test, and debug software components and proof-of-concept exploits

  • Conduct vulnerability research and exploitation activities targeting Linux binaries

  • Analyze compiled code and system behavior across multiple architectures

  • Collaborate with cross-functional technical teams to support research and operational objectives

  • Produce clear technical documentation and reports detailing findings and methodologies

Required Qualifications

  • Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance

  • Minimum of three (3) years of hands-on experience developing, testing, and debugging software in:

    • C

    • C++

    • Python

  • Demonstrated experience with:

    • Reverse Engineering (RE)

    • Vulnerability Research (VR)

    • Exploitation of native Linux applications

  • Strong understanding of Linux internals, system calls, memory management, and debugging tools

  • Experience analyzing compiled binaries and low-level system behavior

Desired / Preferred Qualifications

  • Exploitation and reverse engineering experience on ARM and MIPS architectures

  • Familiarity with common exploitation techniques (e.g., memory corruption, privilege escalation)

  • Experience with tools such as GDB, IDA Pro, Ghidra, radare2, or similar

  • Knowledge of secure coding practices and vulnerability mitigation techniques

Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract 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.

 

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How this Researcher salary compares

This role pays $187,500/yrabove the typical range for Researcher roles.

$58,482 median $110,142 $241,152

Typical range $74,500–$175,000/yr, from 1,154 comparable Researcher listings on JobsRadar (pay annualized to USD). See Researcher salary insights →

About Nightwing

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 d

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