Reverse Engineer and Offensive Cyber Developer

About the role

We seek experienced reverse engineers and developers who will build inventive cyber capabilities leveraging novel reverse engineering and exploitation techniques. We work in a dynamic, mission-driven environment where our efforts have real-world impact. Collaboration is at the heart of our culture, and we value multidisciplinary perspectives, curiosity, and continuous learning. We encourage our staff to explore new approaches, share knowledge, and deepen their expertise as they take on some of the nation’s toughest challenges.

Responsibilities

• Reverse engineer the software, firmware, and hardware of target systems for potential vulnerabilities
• Work in teams to modify device firmware and software to perform additional effects or to communicate in alternative ways
• Operationalize proof-of-concept code by thoroughly testing, documenting, and integrating with sponsor systems
• Propose promising ideas for internal and external funding opportunities
• Share and enhance knowledge by clearly articulating ideas through papers and presentations to government decision makers, team members, and senior management

Qualifications

• Possess a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or other discipline relevant to the work as described above
• Have at least 2 years of proven experience reverse engineering or developing offensive cyber capabilities
• Understand operating system fundamentals and internals, exploitation techniques, and mitigations
• Have development experience in low-level languages such as assembly or C/C++
• Use software or hardware debuggers to debug complex problems
• Be an outstanding communicator in both written and verbal forms
• Able to acquire a Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a TS/SCI level clearance

Qualifications (above minimum)

• Have a Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
• Have 8+ years of experience reverse engineering or developing offensive cyber capabilities
• Enjoy prototyping hardware and systems with embedded microcontrollers
• Have a solid understanding of radiofrequency (RF) concepts
• Hold an active TS/SCI security clearance

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.