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Development

Windows Developer – Kernel & Reverse Engineering

On Site at Arlington, VA or Herndon, VAFull-time$160,000 - $225,000 per yearPosted October 1, 2026

Overview

Talon Defense is seeking a highly skilled Windows Developer with expertise in kernel-level development and reverse engineering to join our advanced technology team in Arlington or Herndon, VA. This role is critical for designing, developing, and analyzing low-level Windows components to support national security and cyber defense missions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and implement software components in the Windows kernel space
  • Perform reverse engineering of binaries to identify functionality, vulnerabilities, or behaviors
  • Collaborate with cybersecurity analysts, researchers, and fellow engineers to develop cutting-edge tools and capabilities
  • Analyze undocumented OS behaviors and contribute to low-level system integration
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code following security best practices

Required Qualifications

  • Strong experience in Windows kernel development (e.g., drivers, low-level APIs, internals)
  • Solid reverse engineering skills using tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, and WinDbg
  • Proficiency in C/C++ and experience with debugging and performance tuning
  • Deep understanding of Windows OS internals and system architecture
  • Active Top Secret clearance or higher (no exceptions)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with malware analysis, exploit development, or vulnerability research
  • Familiarity with secure coding practices and hardened system development
  • Background working in national security, defense, or intelligence domains

Compensation

$160,000 - $225,000 per year

Medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; paid time off and federal holidays; life insurance; professional development and certification reimbursement.

Annual performance bonus; employee referral bonuses.

Salary offered will depend on numerous qualifying factors such as clearance, degree and the years and depth of applicable experience.

Security Clearance

Candidates must hold an active Top Secret clearance or higher (no exceptions).

Talon Defense, Inc. provides equal opportunities to qualified employees and prospective employees without regard to age, race, color, religion, pregnancy, sex, national origin, veteran status, uniformed status, physical or mental disability, or other protected characteristics.

Interested in this role?

Send us your resume and a brief introduction. We'd love to hear from you.

Apply Now

Questions about this position? Contact us at careers@talondefense.com