Principal Consultant, DFIR, Reactive Services (Unit 42)

Palo Alto Networks; United States; Remote; USD 136,000 - 187,000; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto Networks is seeking a seasoned security professional to lead incident response engagements across Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X, guiding clients from scoping through containment and remediation. This remote role emphasizes collaboration with global teams and delivering comprehensive security solutions.

The role requires hands-on forensics using EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, Splunk and related tools, mentoring junior staff, and traveling up to 20% as needed. Remote work setup supported.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 8 years of experience, or Master’s degree with 6 years of experience, or PhD with 3 years of experience in Information Security, Computer Science, Digital Forensics, or a related field.
• Direct experience in incident response or digital forensics consulting.
• Proficiency with host‑based forensics and data breach response methodologies.
• Hands‑on experience with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, SIFT, Splunk, Redline, Volatility, or WireShark.
• Ability to travel as needed to meet business demands, averaging up to 20%.

Responsibilities

• Manage and lead incident response engagements, including scoping work, guiding clients through forensic investigations, and containing security incidents.
• Perform reactive incident response and host-based analysis on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X systems to identify Indicators of Compromise (IOCs).
• Examine firewall, web, database, and other log sources to identify evidence of malicious activity and attack vectors.
• Investigate data breaches using forensic tools like EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, SIFT, and Splunk to determine the source and scope of compromises.
• Provide clients with clear, actionable recommendations for long‑term remediation and security posture improvement.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and deliver comprehensive solutions.
• Act as a mentor for junior team members, sharing expertise in incident response and digital forensics best practices.

Skills

Incident response

Digital forensics

Client engagement

Leadership

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Information Security or related field

Master’s degree in Information Security or related field

PhD in Information Security or related field

Tools

EnCase

FTK

X-Ways

SIFT

Splunk

Redline

Volatility

Wireshark

Job description

Our Mission

At Palo Alto Networks®, we’re united by a shared mission—to protect our digital way of life. We thrive at the intersection of innovation and impact, solving real-world problems with cutting‑edge technology and bold thinking. Here, everyone has a voice, and every idea counts. If you’re ready to do the most meaningful work of your career alongside people who are just as passionate as you are, you’re in the right place.

Who We Are

In order to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, we must trailblaze the path and shape the future of our industry. This is something our employees work at each day and is defined by our values: Disruption, Collaboration, Execution, Integrity, and Inclusion. We weave AI into the fabric of everything we do and use it to augment the impact every individual can have. If you are passionate about solving real-world problems and ideating beside the best and the brightest, we invite you to join us!

This role is remote, but distance is no barrier to impact. Our hybrid teams collaborate across geographies to solve big problems, stay close to our customers, and grow together. You will be part of a culture that values trust, accountability, and shared success where your work truly matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and lead incident response engagements, including scoping work, guiding clients through forensic investigations, and containing security incidents.
• Perform reactive incident response and host-based analysis on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X systems to identify Indicators of Compromise (IOCs).
• Examine firewall, web, database, and other log sources to identify evidence of malicious activity and attack vectors.
• Investigate data breaches using forensic tools like EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, SIFT, and Splunk to determine the source and scope of compromises.
• Provide clients with clear, actionable recommendations for long‑term remediation and security posture improvement.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and deliver comprehensive solutions.
• Act as a mentor for junior team members, sharing expertise in incident response and digital forensics best practices.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 8 years of experience, or Master’s degree with 6 years of experience, or PhD with 3 years of experience in Information Security, Computer Science, Digital Forensics, or a related field.
• Direct experience in incident response or digital forensics consulting.
• Proficiency with host‑based forensics and data breach response methodologies.
• Hands‑on experience with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, SIFT, Splunk, Redline, Volatility, or WireShark.
• Ability to travel as needed to meet business demands, averaging up to 20%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong leadership skills with experience leading complex technical engagements and interfacing directly with clients, from technical administrators to C‑suite executives.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively across internal and external functions.
• Established credibility in the cybersecurity community through public speaking, conference presentations, or publications.
• Excellent executive presence and communication skills.

Compensation Disclosure

The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and work location. For candidates who receive an offer at the posted level, the starting base salary (for non‑sales roles) or base salary + commission target (for sales/com‑missioned roles) is expected to be the annual range listed below. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here.

$136,000.00 - $187,000.00/yr

Our Commitment

We’re trailblazers that dream big, take risks, and challenge cybersecurity’s status quo. It’s simple: we can’t accomplish our mission without diverse teams innovating, together.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at [e-mail].

Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Is role eligible for Immigration Sponsorship? No. Please note that we will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.