principal Software Engineer tech_leadership · Posted May 11, 2026
$170,000 – $210,000
USD per year

About this role

Fortinet is hiring a principal-level Software Engineer based in Sunnyvale, CA. The posting calls out experience with Security, Python, C, VMware. Compensation is listed at $170,000–$210,000 per year.

Role
Software Engineer
Function
software engineering
Level
principal
Track
Tech leadership
Employment
Full-time
Location
Sunnyvale, CA
Department
Embedded SW/Firmware Engineering
Posted
May 11, 2026

More roles at Fortinet

Technical Account Manager
Madrid, Spain · mid
Networking Security
Sr. Software Dev QA Engineer
Sunnyvale, CA · senior
Python Bash Docker
Technical Writer
London, United Kingdom · mid
Git Agile Security
Senior Threat Intelligence Research Engineer
Frankfurt, Germany · senior
SQL Kubernetes Docker
Manager Channel Team - CZ
Praha, Czech Republic · manager
Networking
All Fortinet jobs →

Job description

from Fortinet careers

Join Fortinet, a cybersecurity pioneer with over two decades of excellence, as we continue to shape the future of cybersecurity and redefine the intersection of networking and security. At Fortinet, our mission is to safeguard people, devices, and data everywhere. We are currently seeking a Principal Software Developer Engineer for our FortiSwitch team.

As a Principal Software Developer Engineer, you will:

  • Develop and maintain software components on current and future products
  • Take responsibility for developing networking-related features for the FortiSwitch Virtual Machine (FSW-VM) product line and the Marvell CPSS SDK work for both VM and hardware.
  • Be hands on in bug fixing in current products
  • Implement software features of high quality and on schedule
  • Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Work closely with hardware teams for features which directly translate to hardware platforms

We Are Looking For:

  • A minimum of 12 years of experience in Networking related software development
  • B.S. in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering; M.S. preferred
  • Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential
  • Strong knowledge of Linux kernel programming, including system calls and custom device drivers
  • Experience with Marvell switching ASICs and SDKs in Ethernet switches/routers.
  • Experience in developing applications running in a Virtualization environment (KVM & VMware)
  • Experience with multi process/thread programming environment
  • Experience in implementing L2/L3 features such as STP, RSTP, RIP, OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, LACP, LLDP, QOS, Private VLAN, LAG
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP networking, firewalls, switching and routing              
  • Familiarity with system installations, configurations, and troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of general QA procedures and methodologies as well as software development fundamentals
  • Knowledge of scripting languages: Shell and Python a plus
  • Experience with firewalls and embedded systems is a plus
  • Knowledge of Linux kernel and driver development is plus

 

  • US citizenship is required.

 

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $170,000 - $210,000. Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time as well as a comprehensive leave program. Wage ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, and job level. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location. All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program, Bonus eligibility is reviewed at time of hire and annually at the Company’s discretion.

 About Our Team: 

Join our team, known for its collaborative ethos, working seamlessly with global customers, internal engineering teams and product development groups. Our team culture emphasizes continuous learning, innovation, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. We embrace Fortinet’s core values of openness, teamwork and innovation, fostering an environment where team members support each other, share knowledge. Our inclusive and dynamic team thrives on collaboration and is driven by the shared goal of maintaining Fortinet’s high standards of excellence in cybersecurity solutions 

Why Join Us: 

We encourage candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply. We offer a supportive work environment and a competitive Total Rewards package to support you with your overall health and financial well-being. Embark on a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding career journey with Fortinet. Join us in bringing solutions that make a meaningful and lasting impact to our 660,000+ customers around the globe

All software engineering jobs software engineering in Sunnyvale, CA Jobs in Sunnyvale, CA software engineering salaries software engineering career path
All Fortinet Jobs Browse software engineering roles principal positions