Sr. Principal Software Engineer (Prisma SASE)

Palo Alto Networks, Inc.; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 277,000; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto Networks, Inc. is seeking a Sr. Principal Software Engineer to lead the development of groundbreaking SASE technologies. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams to innovate and deliver impactful security solutions.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in system software development, especially with data path and control plane architectures. A strong proficiency in C programming and a deep understanding of networking principles are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience, or 10+ years with MS degree in system software development.
• Extensive experience with data path components on networking devices.
• Proficiency in programming, especially in C.

Responsibilities

• Drive core implementation and design of networking components.
• Lead full product release cycles from design to deployment.
• Collaborate to solve critical customer problems.

Skills

C programming

System design

Troubleshooting complex systems

Packet forwarding mechanisms

Cloud networking technologies

Education

BS in Computer Science or related field

MS in related field

Job description

Job Summary

As a Sr. Principal Software Engineer in the Engineering team, you will join a world-class group developing ground-breaking SASE technologies. You will serve as a technical lead, designing and developing systems to solve complex problems in networking data path software. This role requires working with cross‑functional teams to drive innovation and deliver impactful results in the SASE domain.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical lead to drive core implementation and design of networking data path components with high autonomy.
• Lead full product release cycles, spanning from initial feature design to final version release and deployment.
• Collaborate within a fast‑paced team to solve critical customer problems and deliver high‑impact security solutions.
• Contribute to all phases of the product development cycle, including definition, architecture, implementation, and testing.
• Proactively identify opportunities for product improvement and innovate new features based on customer feedback.
• Design and develop high-performance data plane and control plane architectures for networking devices.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• BS degree in Computer Science or related field with 12+ years of experience, or MS degree with 10+ years of experience in system software development.
• Extensive experience developing data path components and working with data plane/control plane architectures on networking devices.
• Proficiency in C programming and experience with packet forwarding mechanisms using DPDK.
• Strong background in system design and architecture of networking products involving switching, routing, and security.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Linux system programming, including sockets, shared memory, and multi-threaded programming.
• Knowledge of Layer 3/Layer 4 network protocols (TCP/IP, ARP, ICMP, UDP) and the Linux networking stack.
• Proficiency in additional languages such as Python or Go, and experience with cloud networking technologies.
• Experience with cloud networking technologies is desired.
• Strong passion for troubleshooting and debugging complex systems with excellent problem‑solving techniques.

Compensation

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 is expected to be the annual range listed below. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus.

$170,000.00 - $277,000.00 per year

EEO Statement

We are 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.

Accommodations

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 [e-mail]

Additional Information

Is role eligible for Immigration Sponsorship?: Yes