Cyber Research Engineer

Leidos

23h

About The Position

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Cyber Research Engineer in our Intel Sector. Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO), Mission Software, Analytical Methods and Modeling, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Cryptographic Key Management. At Leidos, we offer competitive benefits, including Paid Time Off, 11 paid Holidays, 401K with a 6% company match and immediate vesting, Flexible Schedules, Discounted Stock Purchase Plans, Technical Upskilling, Education and Training Support, Parental Paid Leave, and much more. Join us and make a difference in National Security! We are seeking a highly skilled Cyber Research Engineer with deep expertise in Offensive Cyber Operations (OCO), vulnerability research, exploit development, and reverse engineering. This role is ideal for a researcher who thrives in low‑level systems work, understands non‑traditional and hardened environments, and can design and develop advanced cyber capabilities that support mission‑aligned OCO objectives. The ideal candidate brings a blend of software engineering rigor, offensive security creativity, and hands-on experience supporting mission needs.

Requirements

BS degree and 8+ years of technical experience in the areas of cybersecurity, software engineering, or related fields.
Vulnerability research and exploit development
Reverse engineering (Ghidra, GDB/Pwndbg, x64dbg)
Linux kernel programming and OS internals
Strong proficiency in C/C++, Python, and Assembly (x86/64).
Experience developing capabilities for Linux, Android, and custom OS environments.
Familiarity with offensive tooling, network protocols, and post‑exploitation techniques.
Current and active TS/SCI clearance to be considered.

Nice To Haves

Experience designing implants or C2 frameworks for denied, degraded, or hardened environments.
Prior support to DoD or IC OCO missions.
Knowledge of embedded systems, RTOS, or custom kernel environments.
Graduate‑level research in kernel security, rootkits, or offensive systems.

Responsibilities

Conduct deep vulnerability research, reverse engineering, and exploit development across hardened, proprietary, and non‑traditional systems.
Design and implement low‑level offensive capabilities while analyzing binaries and OS internals to uncover mission‑relevant attack surfaces.