Aerospace Vulnerability Researcher - DoD TS Cleared

*** Required US Top Secret clearance with ability to upgrade to TS/SCI SAP

The Opportunity

StaffRight Associates is recruiting for an industry-leading defense technology partner to identify a Senior Vulnerability Researcher to spearhead cutting-edge security evaluation initiatives. In this mission-critical role, you will perform deep-dive binary analysis, identify undisclosed zero-day flaws, and engineer proof-of-concept exploits across diverse system landscapes.

Operating as a pivotal technical subject matter expert, you will spearhead high-impact research initiatives that safeguard critical technological infrastructures. StaffRight Associates is managing all candidate discovery and screening for this exclusive, full-time opportunity located on-site in St. Petersburg, FL (preferred), Melbourne, FL, or San Antonio, TX.

What You’ll Do

• Spearhead comprehensive security assessments and vulnerability discovery efforts spanning OS kernels, firmware architectures, hypervisors, real-time embedded environments, and enterprise software suites.

• Architect and execute end-to-end research programs, transforming preliminary attack hypotheses into verified technical discoveries.

• Deconstruct compiled binaries across X86, X64, ARM, and PowerPC hardware frameworks using advanced reverse engineering and dynamic memory inspection.

• Engineer sophisticated exploitation mechanisms while bypassing modern defensive controls including ASLR, DEP/NX, and CFI.

• Investigate proprietary, undocumented system behaviors to expand internal automation capabilities and threat analysis frameworks.

• Partner with elite security engineering teams to elevate technical standards and accelerate research breakthroughs.

• Translate complex technical exploit vectors into actionable intelligence for both executive leadership and operational teams.

• Guide junior research staff through continuous mentorship, technical tool development, and knowledge dissemination.

What You Bring

• 6+ Years of dedicated experience conducting high-level zero-day analysis or exploit development.

• Active Top Secret Clearance with immediate eligibility for TS/SCI and Special Access Programs.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related STEM discipline.

• Advanced Proficiency in Reverse Engineering, Vulnerability Discovery, Exploit Development, Kernel Security Analysis, and Assembly Language Optimization.

• Demonstrated Mastery in low-level development using C/C++ and Python.

• Hands-on Expertise with specialized research platforms including IDA Pro, Ghidra, Fuzzing Frameworks, Symbolic Execution Tools, and Malware Deobfuscation.

• Proven Knowledge evaluating target platforms such as Embedded Systems, Hypervisors, Linux, Windows, MacOS, RTOS, and Networking Protocols.

• Background supporting offensive cyber operations, national security efforts, or defense research initiatives.

• Recognized Achievements within the research community, such as published CVEs, conference lectures, white papers, or Capture The Flag awards.

• ship (mandatory; no visa sponsorship provided).

Compensation & Total Rewards

• Annual Base Pay: $156,000 – $234,000 (commensurate with expertise).

• Work Arrangement: Full-Time, On-Site position.

• Relocation Package: Financial relocation assistance provided for qualifying hires.

Joining StaffRight Associates

When you partner with StaffRight Associates in your search for your next role, you’re doing more than pursuing a job, you’re aligning yourself with a team of experts committed to placing top-tier talent in truly impactful positions. We take pride in fostering professional growth and connecting forward-thinking individuals with organizations that value innovation and excellence. We look forward to showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with our clients and opens the door to meaningful opportunities.