Malware Analyst Salary in 2024

Salary details

The average Malware Analyst salary lies between USD 104,000 and USD 179,000 globally. It represents the overall compensation/gross salary amount for the working year (before deductions like social security, taxes and other contributions), not including equity/stock options or similar benefits.

All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Dec. 22, 2024

Salary trend

Top 20 Job Tags for Malware Analyst roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Malware Analyst job listings are Malware, Reverse engineering and Vulnerabilities. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Malware | 46 jobs Reverse engineering | 37 jobs Vulnerabilities | 23 jobs C | 21 jobs Linux | 21 jobs Clearance | 21 jobs GREM | 20 jobs Incident response | 19 jobs Windows | 19 jobs TS/SCI | 18 jobs Python | 17 jobs Forensics | 15 jobs GCFA | 13 jobs Java | 13 jobs Exploit | 13 jobs Cyber defense | 12 jobs DoD | 12 jobs Privacy | 12 jobs CISSP | 11 jobs Threat intelligence | 10 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Malware Analyst roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Malware Analyst job listings are Career development, Flex hours and Medical leave. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 25 jobs Flex hours | 15 jobs Medical leave | 11 jobs Health care | 10 jobs Team events | 10 jobs Flex vacation | 7 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 6 jobs Startup environment | 5 jobs Competitive pay | 5 jobs 401(k) matching | 4 jobs Equity / stock options | 3 jobs Insurance | 3 jobs Salary bonus | 3 jobs Parental leave | 2 jobs Wellness | 2 jobs

Salary Composition for a Malware Analyst

The salary composition for a Malware Analyst can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary is divided into a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or benefits. In regions with a high cost of living, like the San Francisco Bay Area or New York City, the base salary might be higher to compensate for living expenses. In contrast, regions with a lower cost of living might offer a lower base salary but could compensate with more substantial bonuses or benefits.

In industries like finance or tech, where cybersecurity is critical, companies might offer higher bonuses or stock options to attract top talent. Larger companies often have more structured compensation packages, including comprehensive benefits and bonuses tied to company performance. Smaller companies or startups might offer equity or stock options as part of the compensation package to make up for a potentially lower base salary.

Steps to Increase Salary from a Malware Analyst Position

To increase your salary from a Malware Analyst position, consider the following strategies:

• Specialize Further: Developing expertise in a niche area of malware analysis, such as reverse engineering or threat intelligence, can make you more valuable.
• Pursue Advanced Certifications: Obtaining advanced certifications can demonstrate your commitment and expertise, potentially leading to higher-paying roles.
• Seek Leadership Roles: Transitioning into a leadership or managerial role can significantly increase your earning potential.
• Expand Your Skill Set: Learning complementary skills, such as programming or network security, can make you more versatile and open up higher-paying opportunities.
• Network and Build Industry Connections: Engaging with professional networks can lead to opportunities in higher-paying companies or roles.

Educational Requirements for a Malware Analyst

Most Malware Analyst positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for more advanced positions. Relevant coursework in areas like computer programming, network security, and data analysis is often beneficial.

Helpful Certifications for a Malware Analyst

Certifications can play a crucial role in advancing your career as a Malware Analyst. Some of the most recognized and helpful certifications include:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

These certifications demonstrate a high level of expertise and commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate for higher-level positions.

Experience Required for a Malware Analyst

Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 2-5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. Experience in roles such as a Security Analyst, Network Administrator, or Software Developer can be beneficial. Hands-on experience with malware analysis tools, reverse engineering, and threat detection is often required. Internships or entry-level positions in cybersecurity can also provide valuable experience.

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