Job Description

Are you passionate about reverse engineering low-level hardware or software and the challenge of understanding these systems, often without the benefit of schematics and source code?

If so, we want you to join our group of offensive cyber experts. We work in a dynamic, mission driven environment that has real world impact. We are looking for self-starters who will develop groundbreaking cyber capabilities and exploitation techniques to deter and defeat our Nation's adversaries. Our success is measured through our sponsors’ ability to use our capabilities and expertise to protect our Nation’s electronic systems and to defeat those of our adversaries. Our culture is filled with opportunities to collaborate, and we celebrate diversity of thought.

As a member of our elite team, you will...

• Reverse engineer firmware and software extracted from target adversary systems
• Work in teams to modify existing device firmware & software to perform additional effects or to communicate in alternative ways
• Propose groundbreaking ideas for internal and external funding opportunities
• Circulate knowledge by clearly articulating ideas through papers and presentations to team members, senior management, and government decision makers

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a Bachelor's in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or other related degree or equivalent experience
• Understand operating system fundamentals & internals, exploitation techniques, and mitigations
• Have 3+years of experience analyzing assembly language (x86/x64, Arm, PowerPC, MIPS, or others) using interactive disassemblers or decompilers (Hex-Rays, Ghidra, Binary Ninja, etc.)
• Have some development experience in low-level languages such as assembly or C/C++
• Have experience using software or hardware debuggers to debug complex problems
• Are an outstanding communicator in both written and verbal forms
• Are able to acquire a Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a TS/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have a Master's or PHD in computer science, electrical engineering, computer science, or applied computer science
• Have 5 + years of experience reverse engineering or developing offensive cyber capabilities
• Enjoy crafting and prototyping hardware
• Have a depth of experience reverse engineering code from a variety of processor architectures
• Understand wire-level protocols and radio frequency communications
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

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