Principal Security Researcher

As a Principal Security Researcher at Zscaler, your primary responsibilities will include overseeing the full lifecycle of the PKI environment, managing certificate operations like issuance and renewal, ensuring compliance with security policies and cryptographic standards, and developing automation solutions for certificate management. You'll collaborate with various teams to integrate cryptographic best practices into systems and products, making your role crucial for maintaining security integrity.

To qualify for the Principal Security Researcher role at Zscaler, you should have a minimum of 8 years of experience in managing PKI operations or cryptographic security. A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field is highly preferred. Additionally, proficiency in concepts related to Public Key Infrastructure and scripting languages like Python or Bash for automation will set you apart as an ideal candidate.

Zscaler is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in roles such as the Principal Security Researcher. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to a culture where everyone feels represented and valued. Our team thrives on the varied perspectives that come from diverse experiences, leading to innovative solutions and a vibrant work environment.

A Principal Security Researcher at Zscaler should possess thorough knowledge of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) concepts, cryptographic protocols such as TLS/SSL, RSA, and ECC. Experience managing Certificate Authorities and HSMs is essential, alongside automation scripting skills using languages like Python, Bash, or PowerShell to streamline operations and integrate PKI solutions within modern product lifecycles.

Zscaler stands out as an exceptional workplace for Principal Security Researchers due to its commitment to innovation and collaboration. With a culture that values input from all employees, the chance to work on cutting-edge security solutions, and excellent benefits including comprehensive health plans, parental leave options, and an inclusive environment, Zscaler ensures that every member of the team feels engaged and motivated to contribute.

When answering this question, focus on detailing the specific PKI environments you have managed, the types of certificates you have worked with, and any leadership roles you've taken in overseeing PKI operations. Highlight your compliance with security policies and your technical skills in this area as these will be key factors.

Discuss specific challenges such as ensuring timely renewals, dealing with expirations that could impact service, and your strategic approach to creating automation solutions to mitigate these issues. Provide examples of how you successfully navigated these challenges while maintaining security compliance.

In your response, outline your approach to staying updated with current cryptographic standards and regulations. Mention any tools or processes you implement to regularly audit compliance and the importance of collaboration with other departments to ensure someone’s responsibility for compliance.

Be prepared to provide specific examples of your hands-on experience managing Hardware Security Modules (HSMs), discussing the different models you've worked with and how you implemented them in cryptographic operations, along with detailing their importance in securing sensitive data.

Mention your proficiency in scripting languages, such as Python, Bash, or PowerShell, and provide examples of specific automation tasks you've accomplished. Discuss how automation has improved efficiency in your past roles and provided enhanced security in managing PKI.

Explain the steps you would take to incorporate PKI solutions within Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) frameworks, emphasizing collaboration with DevOps teams and any tools or practices you recommend for seamless integration and management.

Discuss your familiarity with new cryptographic algorithms, particularly post-quantum cryptography. Share your thoughts on their implications for security technology, and how you can apply this knowledge to Zscaler’s systems and products.

Choose a project where you took the lead in implementing cryptographic best practices, detailing the motivations behind the project, challenges faced, and the tangible results that came from your expertise, which should align with Zscaler’s mission of securing the cloud.

Discuss various sources, like reputable cybersecurity publications, online courses, professional networks, and relevant conferences, that help you stay informed about trends and threats. This showcases your commitment to lifelong learning in a fast-evolving field.

Tailor your answer to reflect Zscaler’s mission and values, expressing your passion for cloud security and collaboration. Mention any specific aspects of Zscaler that resonate with you, such as their innovative approach or commitment to diversity and inclusion within the workforce.