Reverse Engineer Salary in 2024

Salary details

The average Reverse Engineer salary lies between USD 100,000 and USD 185,000 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: Nov. 24, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for Reverse Engineer roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Reverse Engineer job listings are Reverse engineering, C and Clearance. 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:

Reverse engineering | 208 jobs C | 152 jobs Clearance | 132 jobs Ghidra | 128 jobs Computer Science | 128 jobs Python | 123 jobs Malware | 102 jobs IDA Pro | 98 jobs TS/SCI | 88 jobs Security Clearance | 84 jobs Vulnerabilities | 75 jobs Linux | 75 jobs Windows | 73 jobs Polygraph | 68 jobs Binary Ninja | 61 jobs Exploit | 48 jobs Exploits | 45 jobs GREM | 44 jobs Top Secret | 43 jobs CISSP | 41 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Reverse Engineer roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Reverse Engineer job listings are Career development, Health care 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 | 102 jobs Health care | 94 jobs Medical leave | 65 jobs Parental leave | 48 jobs Insurance | 48 jobs Flex hours | 41 jobs Flex vacation | 39 jobs 401(k) matching | 36 jobs Salary bonus | 35 jobs Equity / stock options | 31 jobs Team events | 30 jobs Competitive pay | 19 jobs Wellness | 18 jobs Startup environment | 12 jobs Relocation support | 11 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 9 jobs Conferences | 6 jobs Fertility benefits | 6 jobs Gear | 4 jobs Transparency | 4 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary composition for a Reverse Engineer in InfoSec/Cyber Security typically includes a fixed base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or profit-sharing. The fixed base salary often constitutes the majority of the total compensation package, ranging from 70% to 85%. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company and industry, often ranging from 10% to 20% of the total compensation. Additional remuneration, such as stock options, is more common in tech companies and startups, potentially making up 5% to 10% of the total package.

Regional differences also play a significant role. For instance, positions in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City may offer higher base salaries and more lucrative stock options compared to other regions. Similarly, larger companies may offer more comprehensive bonus structures and additional benefits compared to smaller firms.

Increasing Salary

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

• Specialization: Develop expertise in niche areas of reverse engineering, such as malware analysis or firmware reverse engineering, which are in high demand.
• Advanced Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications that are recognized in the industry, which can demonstrate your commitment and expertise.
• Leadership Roles: Transition into leadership or managerial roles within the cybersecurity domain, which often come with higher pay.
• Networking: Engage with professional networks and communities to learn about higher-paying opportunities and industry trends.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in cybersecurity to remain competitive and valuable to employers.

Educational Requirements

Most positions for Reverse Engineers in InfoSec/Cyber Security require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree, especially for more advanced roles. A strong foundation in computer programming, systems architecture, and network security is essential. Additionally, coursework or experience in cryptography, operating systems, and software development can be highly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications

Several certifications can enhance your qualifications as a Reverse Engineer:

• GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM): Focuses on malware analysis and reverse engineering skills.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Provides a broad understanding of cybersecurity principles.
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Demonstrates practical penetration testing skills.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Covers various hacking techniques and tools.
• SANS Institute Courses: Offers specialized courses in reverse engineering and malware analysis.

Experience Requirements

Typically, employers look for candidates with at least 3 to 5 years of experience in cybersecurity or a related field. Experience in software development, network security, or systems administration can be advantageous. Practical experience with reverse engineering tools and techniques, such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, or OllyDbg, is often required. Demonstrated experience in analyzing and mitigating security threats is also highly valued.

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