Associate Reverse Engineer Researcher

About the role

The SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and process improvement. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve software-intensive systems. Our core purpose is to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities and develop or acquire the right software, defect free, within budget and on time, every time. 
 
The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking an applicant for the role of an Associate Reverse Engineer Researcher for the Threat Analysis directorate. The SEI is a federally funded research and development center at Carnegie Mellon University.  

 What you’ll do 

• Reverse engineer malicious code in support of high-impact customers, design and develop new analysis methods and tools, work to identify and address emerging and complex threats, and effectively participate in the broader security community 
• Perform in-depth reverse engineering of malicious code, document and transition results in reports, presentations, and technical exchanges 
• Design, prototype, and transition new analysis methods and tools 
• Identify and document high-impact, emerging, and complex active security threats 
• Participate in the broader security community through collaboration, papers, and presentations 

Who you are  

• You have strong technical writing experience 
• You recognize and deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive information 
• You are able to handle continual shifting priorities
• You enjoy mentoring and training others as well as sharing knowledge 
• You communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences 
• You have BS in Computer Science or related discipline with three (3) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with one (1) year of experience
• You have a willingness to travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission This includes sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion. Moderate travel (15%) 
• You will be subject to a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of Defense security clearance 

You have experience with or knowledge of 

• Reverse engineering software binaries 
• Using disassemblers and decompilers (e.g. IDA Pro, NSA Ghidra)  
• Using debuggers (e.g. x32dbg, x64dbg, gdb, WinDbg)  
• Using hex editors and binary analysis similar tools 
• Good knowledge of C/C++, low-level programming, and computer architecture      
• Python or Java development 
• Familiarity with common assembly languages (Intel x86, Intel x64, ARM, etc.) 
• Understanding of binary file formats (PE, ELF, Mach-O).  
• Solid understanding of programming languages and operating system concepts 
• Signature development independent of detection technology 
• Developing extensions or scripts for reverse engineering tools 
• Operating system APIs and security models 
• Internet protocols and network analysis tools (e.g. Wireshark, netcat, and others) 
• Cryptographic algorithms 
• Kernel-level debugging 
• Device driver development 
• Mobile device development and reverse engineering 
• VirtualBox or VMWare admin or development  
• Build hardware / hardware emulation environments suitable for developing/validating UEFI and other firmware exploits 
• General understanding and experience in Machine Learning 

Why work here? 

• Join a world-class organization that has significant impact on software 
• Work with cutting edge technologies and experts to solve tough problems for the government and the nation 
• Get 8% monthly contribution for your retirement, without having to contribute yourself 
• Get tuition benefits to CMU and other institutions for you and your dependent children 
• Enjoy a healthy work/life balance with flexible work arrangements and paid parental and military leave 
• Get access to university resources including mindfulness programs, childcare and back-up care benefits, a monthly transit benefit on WMATA, free transportation on the Pittsburgh Regional Transit System 
• Enjoy annual professional development opportunities; attend conferences and training or obtain a certification and get reimbursed for membership in professional societies 
• Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more 

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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