An opportunity has come through our network for a Principal Security Researcher at a leading technology and security organization. This is a contract position for a seasoned expert to join the Security Research Department. You will play a crucial role in supporting advanced security initiatives and vulnerability discovery, focusing on complex and innovative environments. The ideal candidate is a proactive, analytical thinker with a passion for collaboration and a deep, proven expertise in the field. This is a fully remote role, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while engaging in cutting-edge research.

This position is for a senior leader in the security space. Your primary focus will be on Linux-based, open-source Network Operating Systems (NOS) deployed in networking hardware. You will be responsible for leading security research efforts, identifying and evaluating vulnerabilities in intricate environments, from applications to the core OS components. You will not only find vulnerabilities but also develop innovative security tools and techniques to test and improve system security. Collaboration is key—you will work directly with penetration testing teams to drive impactful security enhancements for cloud-based clients. A unique aspect of this role is the opportunity to contribute to security research blogs and technical publications, sharing your insights and findings with the broader community.

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills

Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Security Research Leadership: Lead research efforts on open-source Linux-based Network Operating Systems.
• Vulnerability Discovery: Identify and evaluate vulnerabilities in complex environments, including applications and underlying OS components.
• Tool Development: Develop new security tools and techniques to improve system security.
• Collaboration: Work with penetration testing teams to drive impactful security enhancements.
• Publication: Contribute to security research blogs and technical publications.

The ideal candidate must have a minimum of over 15 years of experience in security research, vulnerability discovery, and security initiatives. This is a role for an established expert.

Essential skills and qualifications include:

• Fuzzing Tools: Proficiency with fuzzing tools such as AFL++, libFuzzer, Honggfuzz, and Sulley.
• Programming Languages: Strong skills in Python and PowerShell, with a working knowledge of C/C++ and Bash.
• Platforms & Architectures: Experience with Linux, SONiC, ARM, x86 architectures, Proxmox, and pfSense platforms.
• Testing & Techniques: Expertise in penetration testing, application fuzzing, and container escape techniques.

What This Opportunity Offers

This contract role offers the chance to work on truly cutting-edge security research in a dynamic environment. You will be at the forefront of vulnerability discovery, engaging with innovative security tools and methodologies. The work is collaborative, focused on making a tangible impact on security for a range of clients. You will have the opportunity to build your professional brand by contributing to high-profile publications and blogs. The position is fully remote with flexible arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.

Upon completion of a waiting period, consultants are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, a 401(k) with a match, and weekly pay. If you are a seasoned security professional looking to take on a leadership role in a challenging and rewarding field, this opportunity could be a perfect fit.