Principal Software Engineer (L7 Security, IOT/OT)

Palo Alto Networks, Inc.; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 147,000 - 238,000; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto Networks, Inc. is seeking a senior security software engineer for the Layer-7 Security group to design and develop device identity and security features in next-generation firewalls.

You will collaborate with product management, translate user requirements into functional design, and implement robust, scalable software across the full development cycle. The role requires strong C under Linux, experience with multi-threaded high‑performance systems, TCP/IP networking, and a passion for

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science or related field plus 2+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Proficient in C under Linux, with TCP/IP networking experience.
• Experience with multi-threaded, high-performance distributed software design/architecture.
• Willingness to leverage AI to maximize productivity and efficiency.
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in security or networking industry.
• Experience with Redis or NoSQL databases is a plus.
• Go and Python experience are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Innovate, design, develop and improve the Next‑Generation Firewall, focusing on device identity solutions.
• Own and be responsible for critical components in the Next‑Generation Firewall system.
• Deliver features and improvements in high-quality and high-performance components.
• Collaborate with team members and cross-team to architect innovative solutions in networking and security.

Skills

C programming

Linux

Multi-threaded programming

TCP/IP networking

AI for productivity

Security industry experience

Go

Python

Education

BS in Computer Science or related field

MS or PhD preferred

Tools

Redis

NoSQL

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

In the Layer-7 Security Software team, we are responsible for at least one, often two to three headline features in every PANOS release. Our code reaches many product lines in the company, and is the critical part of delivering the highest revenue licenses the company offers.

As a key member of Layer-7 Security group, you will be responsible for designing and developing device identity solutions, and other 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.

Key Responsibilities

• Innovate, design, develop and improve the Next‑Generation Firewall in terms of functionality and performance, working on device identity solutions

• Own and be responsible for critical components in the Next‑Generation Firewall system

• Deliver features and improvements in critical components in high quality and performance

• As an expert on networking and security, work closely with team members and cross‑team to design and architect innovative solutions

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Computer Science, similar technical discipline or equivalent practical experience, plus two or more years of relevant industry experience, Graduate degree (MS or Ph.D.) in Computer Science or similar technical discipline or equivalent military experience is preferred

• Proficient in C programming under Linux development environment

• Experience with multi-threaded programming and large‑scale, distributed, and/or high‑performance software design and architecture

• Experience with TCP/IP networking software development

• Demonstrated willingness and ability to leverage AI to maximize productivity and operational efficiency

• Minimum 7 years professional experience in security or networking industry

• Teammate who brings a can‑do attitude to a dynamic working environment and is comfortable learning new technologies and platforms

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Redis or NoSQL database

• Go, python experience

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.

$147,000.00 - $237,500.00/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?: Yes