Research and Development (R&D) Specialist

ShorePoint•Herndon, VA

10d•Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a Research and Development (R&D) Specialist with deep expertise in software and systems engineering and cybersecurity-focused R&D supporting a federal environment. In this role, you will develop new cyber capabilities by researching emerging technologies, designing and prototyping secure solutions and evaluating vulnerabilities across cyberspace systems. The R&D Specialist will lead technical research, tool development and vulnerability-driven capability enhancements while producing clear technical documentation and stakeholder-ready briefings. This is a unique opportunity to shape the growth, development and culture of an exciting and fast-growing company in the cybersecurity market.

Requirements

Expert knowledge of computer architecture, operating system structures (process management, directory internals) and middleware (Enterprise Service Bus, message queuing) to identify vulnerabilities in complex system designs.
Deep proficiency in hacking methodologies, penetration testing and software reverse engineering, with the ability to identify forensic footprints and analyze software communications for security gaps.
Technical mastery of networking protocols, XML schemas and application firewall functions (including REST/JSON processing, SSL security and data anonymization for PCI/PII).
Knowledge of cybersecurity laws and standards specifically for critical infrastructure, mobile communications architecture and the vulnerabilities inherent in hardware designed without security considerations.
Skill in applying the systems engineering process, secure coding techniques and mathematical or statistical models to develop and integrate technologies across legacy and modern platforms.
7+ years of relevant cyber security experience.
Proven ability to analyze complex requirements and translate them into clear, actionable tasks and processes through critical thinking.
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen and eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance, in compliance with federal contract requirements.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering or a related field.
Industry recognized certifications.

Responsibilities

Conduct software and systems engineering research to develop new cybersecurity capabilities and ensure security is integrated throughout the design and development lifecycle.
Research current and emerging technologies to understand system/network capabilities and identify vulnerability and opportunity areas aligned to mission needs.
Review and validate data mining and data warehousing programs, processes and requirements to support capability development.
Collaborate with stakeholders to identify requirements and develop or recommend appropriate technical solutions and standards.
Design, develop and troubleshoot prototypes and early-stage tools/technologies, resolving issues throughout design, development and pre-launch phases.
Identify functional and security-related features that enable new capability development to exploit or mitigate vulnerabilities.
Evaluate network infrastructure and systems to identify vulnerabilities and systemic security issues based on vulnerability and configuration data.
Develop or enhance reverse engineering tools and techniques to support vulnerability discovery and capability improvement.
Develop data management capabilities (for example, cloud-based centralized cryptographic key management) to support distributed and mobile workforce needs.
Produce technical documentation and present briefings to communicate findings, designs, risks and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders