2027 - Associate Cyber Software Engineer - Cincinnati OH
The Associate Cyber Software Engineer at Confidential Client in Cincinnati, OH, develops advanced software solutions to address national security threats, focusing on kernel development, reverse engineering, and vulnerability research in network and communication systems. This role requires strong programming skills in C/C++ and assembly, familiarity with debugging tools, and the ability to work on cutting-edge cyber technologies supporting U.S. government and Department of Defense missions. The position offers exposure to diverse technical disciplines and emphasizes innovation in cybersecurity within a mission-critical environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position overview
Confidential Client is seeking an Associate Cyber Software Engineer to join a mission-driven team in Saint Bernard, OH. This role contributes to the design, development, and analysis of low-level and networked software used to address national security challenges. Candidates will work across reverse engineering, kernel- and network-level programming, and vulnerability research in a collaborative, learning-focused environment.
What You’ll Do
- Participate in reverse engineering, vulnerability analysis, and defensive/offensive cyber tool development.
- Design and implement software in C/C++ for kernel-mode and user-space environments.
- Develop and debug networked systems and protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP, SSL).
- Use system-analysis and debugging tools (Wireshark, IDA Pro, WinDBG, JTAG, etc.) to investigate issues and validate fixes.
- Work with embedded systems, virtual machines, and multi-OS environments as required.
- Collaborate within an Agile SDLC, contribute to code reviews, and use source control (git, Mercurial).
- Support occasional travel (~10%) and participate in secure-development practices.
Required (Basic) Qualifications
Note: This requisition may be filled at two levels. Applicants must meet ALL items listed for their targeted level.
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Associate (Engineer Level 1)
- B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cyber Security, or similar STEM degree (or imminent graduation).
- U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
- Demonstrated programming experience in C/C++.
- Familiarity with debugging or system analysis tools (Wireshark, IDA Pro, OllyDebug, WinDBG, JTAG debuggers).
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Engineer (Associate Level 2)
- M.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cyber Security, or similar STEM degree (or imminent graduation).
- U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
- Demonstrated programming experience in C/C++.
- Familiarity with debugging or system analysis tools (Wireshark, IDA Pro, OllyDebug, WinDBG, JTAG debuggers).
Preferred Qualifications
- Active Top Secret clearance.
- Advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
- Experience with kernel-mode, embedded, or low-level networking development.
- Familiarity with assembly languages (x86, x64, MIPS, PPC, ARM).
- Experience with virtual machines, OS internals, and return-oriented programming (ROP) concepts.
- Ability to develop and implement shellcode and understand common vulnerability classes (format strings, heap overflows).
- Experience with SDLC, Agile methodology, automated build pipelines (Jenkins, Go), and source control workflows.
- Experience developing software for multiple operating systems.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range — Level 1: $76,200 — $114,400 per year.
- Salary Range — Level 2: $91,800 — $137,600 per year.
- Compensation shown is a guideline; final offers consider experience, education, and market factors.
- Benefits may include health insurance, life/disability coverage, retirement savings plan, paid time off, and eligibility for discretionary/annual bonuses. Specific benefit details are determined by the hiring organization.
Location, Clearance & Other Requirements
- Work location: Saint Bernard, OH (on-site expected as required by program).
- U.S. Citizenship required for positions requiring government clearance.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance is required.
- Travel: approximately 10% (as needed).
- Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
Notes on Hiring Process
- This role supports technical training and early-career development; mentorship and professional learning are emphasized.
- Confidential Client and Careertakes are committed to a fair hiring process and reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Please request accommodations through the Careertakes platform.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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