Malware Reverse Engineer Salary in United States during 2023

Salary details

The average Malware Reverse Engineer salary lies between USD 112,000 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 Reverse Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Malware Reverse Engineer job listings are Malware, Reverse engineering and Python. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Malware | 19 jobs Reverse engineering | 19 jobs Python | 14 jobs OllyDbg | 14 jobs Scripting | 12 jobs Computer Science | 12 jobs Clearance | 11 jobs Vulnerabilities | 10 jobs Perl | 10 jobs Ruby | 10 jobs GREM | 10 jobs Ghidra | 10 jobs Linux | 9 jobs Incident response | 8 jobs C | 8 jobs WinDbg | 8 jobs Windows | 7 jobs Top Secret | 7 jobs PowerShell | 7 jobs Exploit | 7 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Malware Reverse Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Malware Reverse Engineer job listings are Health care, Salary bonus and 401(k) matching. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Health care | 14 jobs Salary bonus | 7 jobs 401(k) matching | 6 jobs Team events | 6 jobs Equity / stock options | 3 jobs Career development | 2 jobs Startup environment | 2 jobs Medical leave | 2 jobs Competitive pay | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

In the field of Malware Reverse Engineering within the United States, the salary structure can vary significantly based on factors such as region, industry, and company size. Typically, the salary is composed of a fixed base salary, which forms the bulk of the compensation package. This base salary can range widely depending on the cost of living in the region and the demand for cybersecurity professionals. For instance, positions in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City might offer higher base salaries compared to other regions.

In addition to the base salary, bonuses are a common component of the compensation package. These bonuses can be performance-based, tied to individual or company performance metrics, or they might be annual bonuses that are part of the overall compensation strategy. Some companies, especially larger ones, may also offer stock options or equity as part of the remuneration package, which can be a significant financial incentive.

Increasing Salary

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

• Specialization: Developing expertise in a niche area of malware analysis, such as mobile malware or ransomware, can make you more valuable to employers.
• Advanced Education: Pursuing a master's degree or other advanced certifications can enhance your qualifications and open up higher-paying opportunities.
• Leadership Roles: Transitioning into a leadership or managerial role within cybersecurity can significantly increase your earning potential.
• Consulting: Offering your expertise as a consultant can provide opportunities for higher earnings, especially if you establish a strong reputation in the industry.

Educational Requirements

Most positions for Malware Reverse Engineers 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 roles. A strong foundation in computer programming, operating systems, and network security is essential.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can play a crucial role in advancing your career in malware reverse engineering. Some of the most recognized and beneficial certifications include:

• GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM): This certification demonstrates your ability to reverse-engineer malicious software.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): While broader in scope, this certification is highly respected in the cybersecurity field.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification can be beneficial for understanding the mindset of attackers and the techniques they use.

Required Experience

Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 3-5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. Experience specifically in malware analysis, reverse engineering, or incident response is highly valued. Practical experience with tools such as IDA Pro, OllyDbg, or Ghidra is often required.

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