Principal Software Engineer

Palo Alto Networks; California (MO); On-site; USD 156,000 - 253,000; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto Networks is seeking an engineer to design and develop security features for next‑generation firewalls. You will collaborate with product management on user requirements, translate them into robust software, and work with QA and field support throughout the development lifecycle.

The role emphasizes C/C++ (and Go) development, performance optimization, and secure software design. Strong problem‑solving and communication skills are essential to contribute from architecture through

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience.
• Strong proficiency in C and C++ programming languages.
• In-depth knowledge of networking concepts (TCP/IP).
• Familiarity with TLS and L4-L7 protocols is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop security features for next-generation firewalls.
• Collaborate with product management on user requirements and translate them into robust software.
• Interact with QA and field support throughout the development lifecycle.
• Identify performance bottlenecks and drive process improvements.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Go programming

Networking basics

Problem solving

Education

B.S. degree in Computer Science

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! We believe collaboration thrives in person. That’s why most of our teams work from the office full time, with flexibility when it’s needed. This model supports real‑time problem‑solving, stronger relationships, and the kind of precision that drives great outcomes.

Job Summary

As a key member of Layer-7 Security group, you will be responsible for designing and developing security features on the next‑generation firewalls. You will work with product management on user requirements, apply your knowledge to functional design, utilize your programming skills for efficient and robust implementation, and interact with quality assurance and field support teams throughout the entire software development cycle.

Your Career

We’re seeking innovators - engineers who seek to design new products, designing state‑of‑the‑art products that do not exist today. These engineers love to code with a drive to build global products and bring new ideas to develop security disciplines to solve real‑world problems. We are looking for leaders who take ownership of their areas of focus and who are driven to pursue problems at every level. Collaboration is at the heart of our culture and we need engineers who can communicate at a high level and work well with multi‑functional teams towards achieving a common goal.

Your Impact

Innovate, design, and develop new security features in our next‑generation firewalls in the Layer7 identity and inspection areas. Develop functional specifications, assess task requirements and scheduling, and assist in development, debug 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.

Your Experience

B.S. degree in Computer Science, similar technical discipline or equivalent practical experience, graduate degree (MS or Ph.D.) in Computer Science or similar technical discipline is preferred or equivalent military experience Strong proficiency in C and C++ programming languages. In‑depth knowledge of networking concepts, including TCP/IP, and familiarity with security protocols such as TLS and L4-L7 protocols is a plus. Experience in developing and optimizing software for performance, scalability, and security. Solid understanding of software development methodologies, version control systems, and agile practices. Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Verbal and written communication skills to work with multi‑functional groups - a good team player who brings a can‑do attitude to a dynamic working environment Flair for coding in C/C++/GO.

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. $156,400.00 - $253,000.00/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.

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