Embedded Systems Reverse Engineer
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Embedded Systems Reverse Engineer
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Not-for-profit UARC delivering national security research
Are you enticed about uncovering the inner workings of today’s most advanced technologies, including distributed surveillance systems and teams of uncrewed platforms?
Are you ready to make critical contributions to national security operations that require a rare combination of technical mastery and mission focus?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
The Cyber-Physical Systems Development Group is seeking an Embedded Systems Reverse Engineer to develop advanced capabilities that address some of the toughest challenges facing the defense and intelligence communities. Our group develops capabilities to analyze and exploit technologies that sense, communicate, and operate in the real world, such as cameras, drones, networking gear, mobile devices, and wearables. As these technologies become more pervasive and interconnected, the data and signals they generate offer new sources of intelligence, while their software and communications introduce vulnerabilities that can be exploited to degrade or deny their operation. We turn these opportunities into practical capabilities that expand U.S. operators' awareness, access, and freedom of action.
As an Embedded Systems Reverse Engineering you will...
Analyze the hardware, firmware, and software of embedded systems to understand designs, functions, and vulnerabilities.
Develop solutions that enhance, moderate, or otherwise modify the behavior of target platforms.
Research and apply AI technologies to accelerate all stages of cyber capability development.
Document and communicate knowledge and delivered capabilities to teammates, leaders, and sponsors.
Identifying emerging technologies, engage with sponsors, and propose new ideas that address evolving operational challenges.
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you possess...
You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you possess...
A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
5+ years of professional experience that includes offensive cyber capability development.
Demonstrated experience with the hardware and software architectures of IoT devices, uncrewed systems, or other edge computing devices.
Experience applying AI/ML, including agentic AI, to automate vulnerability discovery, reverse engineering, software engineering, or other complex technical workflows.
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 of perspectives 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 https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
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 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 [email protected].
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Not-for-profit UARC delivering national security research
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is a not-for-profit university-affiliated research center that provides solutions to complex national security and scientific challenges through technical expertise, prototyping, research and development, and analysis. It uses engineering, simulations, and studies to design prototypes and deliver analyses that support government and partner organizations. Unlike many commercial firms, APL operates as a non-profit affiliated with Johns Hopkins and focuses on mission-oriented research rather than selling finished products. Its goal is to provide practical, thoroughly tested solutions to public-sector customers by performing research, developing prototypes, and offering expert analysis.
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