Principal Engineer Software, Tools & Platforms (Cortex)

Palo Alto Networks, Inc.; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 147,000 - 237,500; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto Networks, Inc. is seeking a Principal Software Engineer who is passionate about building innovative tools and platforms. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in software engineering, focusing on developing scalable high-quality software solutions.

This role involves architecting infrastructure solutions, leading development efforts, and providing in-depth code reviews. Candidates should hold a graduate degree in Computer Science or related fields and have proficiency in Python and distributed systems. Compensation ranges from $147,000 to $237,500 annually.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree or equivalent practical experience in the field of Computer Science or Electrical Engineering.
• Proficiency with software development in one or more programming languages (Python preferred).
• Proficiency in developing large-scale infrastructure and distributed systems.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement resilient infrastructure solutions.
• Write product or system development code.
• Lead design and development of complex product and system features.
• Initiate and lead technical design reviews.
• Maintain/build resilient infrastructure focused on performance.
• Provide expert-level code reviews.
• Spearhead the creation and improvement of technical documentation.
• Provide advanced operational support.

Skills

Software development in Python

Distributed systems

Micro-services architecture

Cloud technologies

Infrastructure development

Education

Graduate degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering

Job description

Job Summary

We seek a Principal Software Engineer who is first and foremost a software craftsman with a passion for building innovative tools and platforms. The ideal candidate will possess a deep-rooted background in software engineering and a strong understanding of the needs and challenges of R&D and DevOps teams. This role is for a true developer at heart, someone who excels at building high-quality, maintainable, and scalable software. If you have a passion for creating tools that enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and support the operational needs of a growing infrastructure, you’re the candidate we’re looking for.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement resilient infrastructure solutions, with a strong focus on performance, security, and sound system design principles.
• Write product or system development code.
• Lead the design and development of complex product and system features.
• Initiate and lead technical design reviews with peers and stakeholders, driving decisions on best design practices and architectural patterns.
• Maintain/build resilient infrastructure focused on performance, security, and sound system design practices.
• Provide expert-level code reviews, offering in-depth feedback on best practices, including style, accuracy, testability, efficiency, and overall code quality.
• Spearhead the creation and improvement of technical documentation, establishing standards and best practices.
• Provide advanced operational support and lead troubleshooting efforts for tools and applications maintained by the Cortex DevOps Tooling team.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree or equivalent practical experience in the field of Computer Science or Electrical Engineering or equivalent military experience.
• Proficiency with software development in one or more programming languages (Python preferred).
• Proficiency in developing large-scale infrastructure, distributed systems or networks, or experience with Compute technologies, storage, or hardware architecture.
• Proficiency with any major Cloud Provider(s).
• Experience with developing, deploying, and/or maintaining micro‑services architecture with Kubernetes.
• Proficiency in code and system health, diagnosis and resolution, and software test engineering.

Compensation

$147,000.00 - $237,500.00/yr

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.