Cybersecurity Researcher

Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) is seeking a Computer and Cybersecurity Researcher

We are seeking out an experienced computer and cybersecurity researcher to lead and participate in efforts to secure government and critical infrastructure systems in support of the Department of Energy, other government Departments and Agencies, and industry partners. Our organization is a unique team whose members develop and deploy operational cybersecurity capabilities and conduct cutting-edge research in advanced digital and cybersecurity technologies. Researchers are expected to apply research advances to challenging multi-disciplinary problems important to national security, with an emphasis on creating a strong cyber environment that can withstand multi-domain, highly sophisticated attacks. Current research focus includes vulnerability assessments, countermeasures development and assessment, reverse engineering, malware analysis, intrusion detection, network and host forensics, mobile devices and networks, at-scale virtualization, and enterprise-scale emulation and analysis of cyber events. Team members are expected to conduct innovative research; to lead projects and contribute effectively on research teams; to work with customers to understand needs and propose solutions; and to present results as appropriate in publications, at open conferences and meetings. Access to knowledge and support successful execution of programs in this arena will require a security clearance. Some travel is expected to meet with sponsors and conduct research activities.  

The ideal candidate is an innovative technology professional with a passion for computer engineering and research. If you excel in solving complex technical problems and have a deep understanding of hardware and software integration, we invite you to apply for this role. We offer competitive compensation, a dynamic work environment and ample opportunities for professional growth.

• Plan, conceive, conduct, or manage research and development for SRNL’s customers and sponsors
• Initiate, design, develop, execute, and evaluate new processes, products, or hardware/software systems through basic and applied research
• Use engineering principles to research, design, or develop structures, instruments, machines, experiments, processes, systems, theories, or technologies; to construct or operate the same with full cognizance of their design; or to forecast their behavior
• Undertake development and possible technology transfer of solutions, products, principles, or technology
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system specifications and ensure seamless integration of hardware and software solutions
• Lead and participate in the development and implementation of technology research strategies and roadmaps for mission area growth
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and best practices in computer engineering
• Document technical specifications, system designs and project progress to maintain clear and comprehensive records
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed hardware and software solutions

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in computer science, computer engineering, or a related technical discipline, with an emphasis on Cybersecurity with at least 2 years’ relevant experience; or Master’s degree in these disciplines with at least 3 years' relevant experience
• Expertise in one or more of the following: cyber vulnerability assessment, intrusion detection systems and countermeasures, Operational Technology (OT) network protocols and monitoring, host forensics and memory forensics, malware analysis and triage, computer networks
• Evidence of relevant research expertise in the form of technical publications, presentations, software, and/or knowledge of applications
• Software development competence in at least one programming language; e.g. C/C++, Perl, Python, Ruby, Java or a related language
• Demonstrated success in conducting multi-disciplinary research projects
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• For ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy (DOE)-granted Q-level and SCI security clearance, a U.S. Citizenship is required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to team effectively in a collaborative research environment
• Demonstrated ability to independently bring definition to difficult ill-defined problems to develop workable technical approaches
• Software engineering proficiency, particularly with respect to best practices and team development of high-quality code
• Experience with system level development, kernel programming, and binary reverse engineering
• Experience with any behavioral models (MITRE ATT&CK, Lockheed Martin “Cyber Kill Chain”, etc..) for advanced persistent threats (APT)
• Experience with Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and signature development
• Hands-on network/packet level examination using tools such as tcpdump or wireshark and network intrusion detection (Snort, Suricata, Zeek, etc.) tools
• Experience applying machine learning techniques to network packet capture (PCAP) data 
• Strong understanding of inter-domain networking including BGP, layer-2 networking protocols such as OSPF, ARP, DHCP, and TCP/IP networks in general.
• Working knowledge of TCP/IP, HTTP, SSL, DNS, FTP, SSH, and other common Internet protocols as well as common client scripting languages such as Javascript and VBscript.
• Experience searching/parsing log files with command line utilities
• Working knowledge of multiple operating systems (Windows, UNIX/BSD, Linux, OS X, etc.)
• Background in solving practical problems in science and engineering that involve encounters with real-world data
• Demonstrated ability to build external partnerships with academia, consortia, and industry
• Recognized expertise (e.g., publications, patents, awards) in one or more areas of computer science/engineering
• Familiarity with DOE national lab system   
• Active Security Clearance

"We put science to work!" 

Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) is a multi-program laboratory applying state of the art science and practical, high-value, cost-effective solutions to complex technical problems to protect the nation. Located at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Savannah River Site (SRS) in Aiken SC, the laboratory develops and deploys innovative technologies to address some of the nation’s environmental, energy, and national security challenges.

Battelle Savannah River Alliance (BSRA) is constantly assessing trends to provide the best possible benefits to our workforce. We also negotiate cost effective premiums that will meet the needs of our evolving workforce. 

Some of the *Benefits offered to employees include:

*Benefits vary based upon employment status

• Highly competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision options including HSA options with company provided seed
• Short- & Long-Term Disability (company paid)
• Life Insurance Non-Contributary 1X salary (company paid)
• AD&D Non-contributary 1x salary (company paid)
• Savings & Investment plan:
• Qualified Non-Elective Company Contribution of 5% each pay period with immediate vesting
• Company match 50 cents/dollar up to 8% (3 yrs. vesting in company match)
• Contributory Life Insurance up to 5x Salary with $1M Cap
• Contributory AD&D (employee, spouse and children)
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Plan
• SRNL offers a competitive relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. 

For more information about our benefits, working here, and living here, visit the “About” tab at www.srnl.doe.gov.

BSRA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. BSRA is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. Please email us at SRNLRecruiting@srnl.doe.gov with any questions regarding the hiring process or to request an accommodation.