Computer Engineer
Date: Feb 17, 2026
Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US, 37830
Company: Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Requisition Id 15974
Overview:
We are seeking a Computer Engineer with a focus on Hardware Vulnerability Research who will support the Cyber Resilience and Intelligence Division in the National Security Science Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
- Support national security agendas as they relate to the identification and mitigation of software vulnerabilities used in defense, energy, and critical infrastructure assets.
- Research, develop and improve tools and techniques used to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in critical systems.
- Maintain awareness and understanding of cyber security research and events.
- Contribute material to reports generated for project sponsors.
- Assist in the development of research proposals related to vulnerability science.
- Promote ORNL/partners cyber security research and development capabilities as they apply to the national security community.
- Present material and provide advice to technical audiences, leadership and sponsors on cyber security issues, research, and programs.
- Identify and articulate ORNL capabilities and customer requirements to internal and external technical audiences, leadership, and sponsors.
- Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
Basic Qualifications:
- BS in computer engineering, computer science or related field and a fundamental understanding of cyber security principles, tools, and operational applications with at least 8 years of relevant experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Software development and characterization: Python security automation; working knowledge of Assembly, C/C++, and Java.
- Binary literacy with static/dynamic analysis; reverse engineering familiarity (Ghidra, IDA) and fuzzing principles.
- Source code and disassembly auditing for vulnerability and malware triage.
- ICS/SCADA systems familiarity, focusing on OT associated data systems.
- Hardware data extraction from embedded devices.
- Hardware and system level failure analysis.
- System level RF analysis and characterization; familiarity with RF emanations, signal analysis concepts.
- Network/web tooling.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work in teams and work independently to achieve performance deadlines.
Special Requirements:
- Q clearance with SCI: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. In addition, due the SCI, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing.
- Visa Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
About ORNL:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.
Nearest Major Market: Knoxville