Senior Principal Software Engineer – Network Security, PanOS

Palo Alto Networks

Innovative software engineer designing and developing security features for next-generation firewalls at Palo Alto Networks. Collaborating with teams throughout the software development cycle to solve real-world security problems.

Posted 7/18/2026full-timeSanta Clara • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $170,000 - $277,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates extensive experience in software engineering with a focus on C and C++ programming on Unix-based platforms, alongside a strong understanding of networking concepts and security protocols. Proven ability to lead technical teams, mentor new members, and implement process improvements for performance and scalability.

Highest-signal resume keywords

C ProgrammingC++ ProgrammingUnix-Based PlatformsNetworking ConceptsSecurity Protocols

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Software Development MethodologiesVersion Control SystemsAgile PracticesPerformance OptimizationScalability

Soft Skills

MentoringCoachingCommunication

Tools & Technologies

TLSWeb ProxiesAI Agents

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s DegreeMaster’s DegreePh.D. in Computer Science

Industry Keywords

Layer 7 IdentityInspectionPerformance Bottlenecks

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

FirewallsTCP/IPUnix

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Innovate, design, and develop new security features in our next-generation firewalls, focusing on Layer 7 identity and inspection.
Develop functional specifications, assess task requirements and scheduling, and assist in development, debugging, and support.
Suggest and implement improvements to the development process.
Clearly communicate goals and desired outcomes to internal project teams.
Interview, mentor, and coach new team members.
Identify performance bottlenecks and continuously implement improvements.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Computer Science or related technical field, or equivalent practical/military experience
12+ years of professional software engineering experience, including significant time in senior technical leadership roles
Strong proficiency in C and C++ programming languages on Unix-based platforms
Solid understanding of software development methodologies, version control systems, and agile practices.
In-depth knowledge of networking concepts, including TCP/IP, and familiarity with security protocols such as TLS and L4-L7 protocols.
Experience working with TLS and Web proxies
Experience in developing and optimizing software for performance, scalability, and security
Excellent understanding of various AI agents and ability to use them as a co-pilot.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Employee benefits may include stock options and bonuses.