Software Development Engineer
- Location
- Sunnyvale, CA, US
- Pay
- $123,000 – $151,000 a year
- Level
- Mid level
- Experience
- 3+ years
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Job function
- Software/Internet/AI
Posted Nov 6, 2026Last confirmed open Nov 7, 2026
About this role
Job Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and maintain networking software for current and future network and security products.
- Implement and enhance network protocols and features, including routing, switching, network services, and secure connectivity.
- Investigate and resolve network connectivity, interoperability, performance, and stability issues.
- Analyze packet flows and optimize network processing for reliability and efficiency.
- Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and QA teams to integrate features and validate functionality across different network environments.
- Participate in software design, code reviews, testing, and technical documentation.
- Support troubleshooting and resolution of customer-reported network issues.
Deliver high-quality software on schedule and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
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Job Requirements:
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in networking-related software development.
- Strong C/C++ programming experience in a Unix/Linux environment is essential.
- Solid understanding of TCP/IP networking, Ethernet, IPv4/IPv6, switching, and routing.
- Hands-on experience implementing or maintaining network protocols and features, such as VLAN, DHCP, DNS, NAT, multicast, routing protocols, or VPN.
- Strong understanding of packet forwarding, routing tables, network interfaces, and protocol state machines.
- Experience with Linux network programming, including sockets, inter-process communication, and event-driven or multithreaded applications.
- Strong troubleshooting skills using packet captures, protocol analysis, system logs, and debugging tools such as Wireshark, tcpdump, and GDB.
- Familiarity with network configuration and testing in environments involving routers, switches, firewalls, and end devices.
- Knowledge of secure coding practices, software testing, and network protocol interoperability testing.
- Experience with Git, code reviews, and maintaining production software.
- Knowledge of network security technologies, including IPsec, TLS, authentication, and access control, is a plus.
- Experience with Linux kernel networking, network drivers, hardware acceleration, or embedded networking platforms is a plus.
Knowledge of Shell or Python scripting for network testing and automation is a plus.
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Educational Requirements:
B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience; M.S. preferred.
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The US base salary range for this full-time position is $123,000-$151,000. 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 labour 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 the time of hire and annually at the Company’s discretion.
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 890,000+ customers around the globe.
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