Malware Analyst Salary in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average Malware Analyst salary lies between USD 104,000 and USD 179,000 in the United States. 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.

Region represents the primary country of residence of an employee during the year (or residence for tax purposes). All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Dec. 15, 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 in the United States typically includes a base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or profit-sharing. The base salary is the fixed component and usually constitutes the majority of the total compensation package. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company's success and the individual's performance, often ranging from 10% to 20% of the base salary. Additional remuneration might include stock options, especially in tech companies or startups, and can be a significant part of the compensation in larger firms or those in high-growth sectors.

Regional differences also play a role; for instance, salaries in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City tend to be higher due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. Industry-wise, financial services and tech companies often offer higher compensation packages compared to other sectors. Company size can also influence salary composition, with larger companies typically offering more comprehensive benefits and bonuses.

Steps to Increase Salary from a Malware Analyst Position

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

• Specialization: Develop expertise in a niche area of malware analysis, such as reverse engineering or threat intelligence, which can make you more valuable to employers.
• Advanced Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) to enhance your credentials.
• Leadership Roles: Aim for leadership or managerial roles within your team, which often come with higher pay.
• Cross-Disciplinary Skills: Acquire skills in related areas such as network security, incident response, or cybersecurity strategy to broaden your scope and appeal.
• Networking and Professional Development: Engage in networking opportunities and professional development to stay updated on industry trends and increase your visibility in the field.

Educational Requirements for a Malware Analyst

Most Malware Analyst positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for more advanced roles. Coursework in programming, network security, and operating systems is particularly beneficial. Additionally, practical experience gained through internships or lab work can be crucial in developing the necessary skills for this role.

Helpful Certifications for a Malware Analyst

Certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications as a Malware Analyst. Some of the most beneficial certifications include:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on understanding and countering hacking techniques.
• GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM): Specializes in reverse engineering and analyzing malware.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Offers a broad understanding of cybersecurity principles.
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Emphasizes practical penetration testing skills.

These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and provide a competitive edge in the job market.

Experience Required for a Malware Analyst

Typically, employers look for candidates with 2-5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field for a Malware Analyst position. Experience in roles such as security analyst, network administrator, or software developer can be advantageous. Hands-on experience with malware analysis tools, reverse engineering, and threat detection is often required. Additionally, familiarity with programming languages like Python, C++, or Java can be beneficial.

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