*** Required US Top Secret clearance with ability to upgrade to TS/SCI SAP
The Opportunity
StaffRight Associates is recruiting for an industry-leading defense technology partner to identify a Senior Vulnerability Researcher to spearhead cutting-edge security evaluation initiatives. In this mission-critical role, you will perform deep-dive binary analysis, identify undisclosed zero-day flaws, and engineer proof-of-concept exploits across diverse system landscapes.
Operating as a pivotal technical subject matter expert, you will spearhead high-impact research initiatives that safeguard critical technological infrastructures. StaffRight Associates is managing all candidate discovery and screening for this exclusive, full-time opportunity located on-site in St. Petersburg, FL (preferred), Melbourne, FL, or San Antonio, TX.
What You’ll Do
Spearhead comprehensive security assessments and vulnerability discovery efforts spanning OS kernels, firmware architectures, hypervisors, real-time embedded environments, and enterprise software suites.
Architect and execute end-to-end research programs, transforming preliminary attack hypotheses into verified technical discoveries.
Deconstruct compiled binaries across X86, X64, ARM, and PowerPC hardware frameworks using advanced reverse engineering and dynamic memory inspection.
Engineer sophisticated exploitation mechanisms while bypassing modern defensive controls including ASLR, DEP/NX, and CFI.
Investigate proprietary, undocumented system behaviors to expand internal automation capabilities and threat analysis frameworks.
Partner with elite security engineering teams to elevate technical standards and accelerate research breakthroughs.
Translate complex technical exploit vectors into actionable intelligence for both executive leadership and operational teams.
Guide junior research staff through continuous mentorship, technical tool development, and knowledge dissemination.
What You Bring
6+ Years of dedicated experience conducting high-level zero-day analysis or exploit development.
Active Top Secret Clearance with immediate eligibility for TS/SCI and Special Access Programs.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related STEM discipline.
Advanced Proficiency in Reverse Engineering, Vulnerability Discovery, Exploit Development, Kernel Security Analysis, and Assembly Language Optimization.
Demonstrated Mastery in low-level development using C/C++ and Python.
Hands-on Expertise with specialized research platforms including IDA Pro, Ghidra, Fuzzing Frameworks, Symbolic Execution Tools, and Malware Deobfuscation.
Proven Knowledge evaluating target platforms such as Embedded Systems, Hypervisors, Linux, Windows, MacOS, RTOS, and Networking Protocols.
Background supporting offensive cyber operations, national security efforts, or defense research initiatives.
Recognized Achievements within the research community, such as published CVEs, conference lectures, white papers, or Capture The Flag awards.
ship (mandatory; no visa sponsorship provided).
Compensation & Total Rewards
Annual Base Pay: $156,000 – $234,000 (commensurate with expertise).
Work Arrangement: Full-Time, On-Site position.
Relocation Package: Financial relocation assistance provided for qualifying hires.
Joining StaffRight Associates
When you partner with StaffRight Associates in your search for your next role, you’re doing more than pursuing a job, you’re aligning yourself with a team of experts committed to placing top-tier talent in truly impactful positions. We take pride in fostering professional growth and connecting forward-thinking individuals with organizations that value innovation and excellence. We look forward to showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with our clients and opens the door to meaningful opportunities.
Never miss an opportunity! Create an alert based on the job you applied for.