Senior Cybersecurity Research Scientist

Description & Requirements

Maximus is a trusted federal partner supporting mission-critical programs across national security, defense, and public service delivery. Recent contract awards in cybersecurity and operational readiness underscore Maximus' role as a reliable prime for high-impact government missions. Joining Maximus means contributing to meaningful work in fast-paced environments alongside professionals committed to service, accountability, and results.

This position is contingent upon contract award and position availability. Selected candidates will receive a contingent offer of employment, which will become final only upon successful contract award to Maximus, availability of the position, and receipt of authorization to proceed.

This role is onsite, five days a week, and requires a TS/SCI security clearance.

Maximus TCS (Technology and Consulting Services) Internal Job Profile Code: TCS053, T5, Band 8

Job-Specific Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct original research into emerging cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies.
• Reverse engineer malware and analyze vulnerabilities to uncover new attack surfaces.
• Develop and test prototype tools for intrusion detection, threat hunting, and exploit prevention.
• Analyze large-scale datasets to identify indicators of compromise and behavioral anomalies.
• Publish technical findings and present research at classified and public conferences.
• Collaborate with DoD and USAF engineering teams to operationalize research into mission systems.
• Support Zero Trust architecture development and defensive cyber operations initiatives.
  
  

Job-Specific Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years in technology consulting.
• At least 5 years supporting federal government programs.
• Proven experience in cybersecurity research, reverse engineering, and vulnerability analysis.
• Expertise in malware analysis, exploit mitigation, and vulnerability research.
• Proficiency in Python, Bash, PowerShell for automation and tool development.
• Familiarity with big data platforms (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, ELK Stack).
• Knowledge of MITRE ATT&CK, Cyber Kill Chain, and Zero Trust frameworks.
• Experience with cloud-native security research (Kubernetes, containers, serverless).
• Ability to translate research into operational tools and mission capabilities.
• Required Certifications (At least 1 required):
• CompTIA Security
• CISSP, ISSAP, CCSP
• CISM, CISA
• GSLC, GXPN, GDSA
• CEH, CCISO
• GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM)
• Offensive Security Certified Expert (OSCE)
  
  

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience with USAF-specific architecture and compliance standards.
• Application of machine learning to cybersecurity datasets for anomaly detection and threat modeling.
• Experience collaborating with red/blue teams and integrating research into DevSecOps pipelines.
• Strong publication record and ability to present findings to technical and executive audiences.
• Demonstrated innovation and continuous improvement in large-scale R&D environments.
  
  

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Minimum Requirements

TCS053, T5, Band 8

EEO Statement

Maximus is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics.

Pay Transparency

Maximus compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to job location, a candidate's education, training, experience, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value analysis including seniority and merit systems, as well as internal pay alignment. Annual salary is just one component of Maximus's total compensation package. Other rewards may include short- and long-term incentives as well as program-specific awards. Additionally, Maximus provides a variety of benefits to employees, including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays and paid time off. Compensation ranges may differ based on contract value but will be commensurate with job duties and relevant work experience. An applicant's salary history will not be used in determining compensation. Maximus will comply with regulatory minimum wage rates and exempt salary thresholds in all instances.

Accommodations

Maximus provides reasonable accommodations to individuals requiring assistance during any phase of the employment process due to a disability, medical condition, or physical or mental impairment. If you require assistance at any stage of the employment process-including accessing job postings, completing assessments, or participating in interviews,-please contact People Operations at .

Minimum Salary

$ 140,000.00

Maximum Salary

$ 180,000.00