Software Engineer, Networking

Tailscale; Canada; Remote; CAD 282,000 - 354,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic technology company is seeking a skilled Software Engineer to develop networking software and contribute to product lifecycle management. The ideal candidate has significant networking experience and a strong understanding of networking concepts. This position offers a competitive compensation package and a remote work environment.

Benefits

Flexible work environment

Comprehensive group benefits

Paid time off

Home office setup support

Annual professional development budget

Qualifications

• Significant experience with networking software and diagnosing networking issues.
• Deep understanding of networking concepts, including IP addressing, routing, NAT traversal, and VPN technologies.
• Experience with distributed systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, test, and document core networking software components.
• Develop and optimize product features in networking areas.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve complex networking issues.

Skills

Networking software experience

IP addressing knowledge

Routing concepts

NAT traversal

VPN technologies

SQL databases

Go programming

Written communication skills

Verbal communication skills

Job description

Tailscale is building the new Internet by delivering software that makes it easy to securely interconnect people and their devices, no matter where they are. From hobbyists to multinational corporations, teams of every size use Tailscale each day to protect their networks and share access to internal tools. Founded in 2019 and fully distributed, we’re backed by Accel, CRV, Insight, Heavybit, and Uncork Capital.

Job Description

We’re seeking a skilled and diligent full-time Software Engineer to join our growing team. You will work as part of the engineering team to:

• Develop the Tailscale product, contributing to both open-source client code and related backend services, with an emphasis on networking features and optimizations
• Take ownership of the entire product lifecycle, from writing code to product ideation and strategic decision-making
• Work with UX/UI designers and product managers to shape features that enhance networking capabilities

Because we’re an early-stage and fully remote company, we’re looking for a strongly motivated individual who can help move the product forward. The ability to think on your feet, collaborate with highly technical teams, and comfort working asynchronously are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Work as part of a team of engineers to design, build, test, and document core networking software components
• Develop and optimize product features in areas such as our control plane, relay infrastructure, and networking protocols
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve complex networking issues across different environments
• Exhibit ownership over the running services that comprise Tailscale’s product by building for observability, participating in incident response, and fielding customer support escalations
• Analyze and improve the efficiency, scalability, and stability of networking systems and resources
• Bring a security-first mindset to both design and implementation, ensuring robust and secure networking components

Requirements

• Significant experience with networking software and diagnosing networking issues
• Deep understanding of networking concepts, including IP addressing, routing, NAT traversal, and VPN technologies
• Experience with distributed systems
• Experience with one or more SQL databases
• Experience with Go is a plus
• Ability to give and process constructive feedback, as well as work independently
• Flexibility to adjust to the dynamic nature of a startup
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Compensation and Benefits

Tailscale’s compensation package includes base salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits. The salary range displayed on each job posting represents the target range for a new hire\'s base salary. Individual offers may vary based on experience and skill set. CAN Pay Ranges: $282,740 - $353,760 CAD.

What We Offer

• An inclusive, flexible environment where you can be your authentic self. Flexibility in how and when you work to balance life and work.
• A competitive total compensation package, including base salary, equity incentive plan, and variable commission (for quota-based roles).
• Comprehensive group benefits with no waiting period for you and your family.
• Remote-first company — most teams work fully remotely with optional in-person collaboration noted in job descriptions.
• Opportunities to connect with other Tailscalars IRL through annual company retreats and team off-sites.
• Support for personal and professional development, including $1500 USD annually for professional development and mentorship opportunities.
• Paid time off and a healthy work-life integration.
• Build-your-own home office setup, including a company-owned laptop choice, monthly home internet reimbursement, and workstation customization budget.
• Generous parental leave program from day one, with top-ups for up to 26 weeks.

For safety, legitimate emails from Tailscale\'s talent team will originate from @tailscale.com, @greenhouse.io, or @interviews.modernloop.io email addresses. Learn more about protecting yourself from impersonators at https://tailscale.com/scam-awareness.