Blockchain Vulnerability Researcher

Qualifications

• Have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or another field relevant to the duties as described above
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience
• Knowledge and interest in blockchain, smart contracts, and crypto currency
• Skilled with software debuggers and static analysis tools such as Ghidra
• Proficient with one or more programming languages
• Understand Unix/Linux operating systems
• Love solving puzzles and have experience persevering through technical challenges
• Hold an active TS/SCI clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+Polygraph clearance

Requirements

• Previously held dynamic technical leadership roles and have demonstrated mentoring experience
• Experience with smart contract debugging and vulnerability detection to ensure code security before deployment
• Experience writing Solidity smart contracts and deploying to Ethereum and other EVM-compatible blockchains
• Expertise in agentic AI
• Knowledge of advanced vulnerability discovery tools

Skills

• Reverse engineer mission-relevant systems and develop innovative exploits
• Work with government sponsors and operators to build mission-aligned capabilities
• Explore novel techniques for automating reverse engineering and exploit development
• Propose groundbreaking ideas for internal and external funding opportunities
• Mentor early-career teammates in the art and science of reverse engineering
• Share knowledge by clearly articulating ideas through papers and presentations to team members, APL management, and government decision makers

About the Role

We are seeking a reverse engineer with a passion for applying innovative approaches to automate vulnerability analysis and a creative researcher who loves to imagine new solutions to complex problems. Our team specializes in software and hardware reverse engineering, vulnerability research, and developing proof-of-concept offensive cyber capabilities.

Benefits

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) offers a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. APL also provides a healthy work/life balance and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work and continue to grow.

Pay

Minimum Rate $100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate $245,000 Annually

Schedule

Not specified