Computer Security Researcher

Computer Security Researcher at Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls, Idaho, United States Job Description Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Cybersecurity Researcher to work with our Cyber Research and Development department. This is a 9x80 schedule located at the Education Research Campus (REC) in Idaho Falls, ID with every other Friday off. Idaho National Laboratory requires Computer Security Researchers to defend the nation's critical infrastructure by developing cutting-edge security techniques and analyzing evolving cyber threats. You will apply advanced scientific and engineering principles to aid in the analysis, design, development, and assessment of secure computer systems and networks. Apply and/or evaluate security protocols, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, cryptography, formal methods, or security models to protect government systems. Utilize vulnerability assessment methodologies to the security policies and mechanisms at customer sites. Identify and develop advanced techniques for attacking, defending, identifying, and recovering from cyber-attacks. Coordinate resources and priorities to attain the desired cyber defense posture. Includes an in-depth knowledge of processors, machine level code, attack techniques, compilers, operating systems, network protocols, cryptographic protocols, and modeling, application of formal logic, and algorithmic analysis and design. You will report to the manager for our Cyber Operations and Incidence Response team. This position will be open for around 90 days, and management will periodically review applications during this time.

Essential Job Functions:

Reverse engineer anomalous/malicious software and hardware. Determine and apply mitigation techniques. Assist in incident response and recommend mitigation strategies. Develop and maintain custom code for network traffic analysis, attack and defense methodologies. Develop technical solutions for information operations, intrusion analysis, malware analysis, and network security. Work with peers and senior engineers to identify security issues. Develop algorithms for detecting and preventing cyber-attacks. Conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments. Write scripts and develop utilities to automate security analysis. Collaborate with customers, develop requirements, and provide documentation. Participate in project teams and develop proposals. Maintain customer relationships and support requests with briefings and papers. Author technical papers and represent the organization.

Required:

Level1: Bachelor's degree in any related field in Data/Computer Science or closely related field. May accept experience in lieu of education commensurate with 8 years of experience in place of degree. Level 2: Bachelor's degree in any related field in Data/Computer Science or closely related field and at least 2 years professional experience, or a master's degree in any related field in Data/Computer Science or closely related field. May accept experience in lieu of education commensurate with 10 years of experience in place of degree. Experience in C programming with an ability to code in assembly, Zero Day exploits, and packet level programming. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.

Job Information:

The pay range for this position is: Level 1 ($79,344 - $162,732) / Level 2 ($95,256 - $195,288). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

TDP:

This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Multi-Level:

This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills. The ideal candidate will possess: Advanced degree. Proficiency in C programming, assembly, Zero Day exploits, and packet level programming.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.: Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Job Posting:

2508626

Posted On:

Mar 04, 2026

Updated On:

Mar 04, 2026