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Principal Software Engineers in Test Automation (Prisma Access)

Company Description

Our Mission

At Palo Alto Networks® everything starts and ends with our mission:

Being the cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting our digital way of life.
Our vision is a world where each day is safer and more secure than the one before. We are a company built on the foundation of challenging and disrupting the way things are done, and we’re looking for innovators who are as committed to shaping the future of cybersecurity as we are.

Who We Are

We take our mission of protecting the digital way of life seriously. We are relentless in protecting our customers and we believe that the unique ideas of every member of our team contributes to our collective success. Our values were crowdsourced by employees and are brought to life through each of us everyday - from disruptive innovation and collaboration, to execution. From showing up for each other with integrity to creating an environment where we all feel included.

As a member of our team, you will be shaping the future of cybersecurity. We work fast, value ongoing learning, and we respect each employee as a unique individual. Knowing we all have different needs, our development and personal wellbeing programs are designed to give you choice in how you are supported. This includes our FLEXBenefits wellbeing spending account with over 1,000 eligible items selected by employees, our mental and financial health resources, and our personalized learning opportunities - just to name a few!

At Palo Alto Networks, we believe in the power of collaboration and value in-person interactions. This is why our employees generally work full time from our office with flexibility offered where needed. This setup fosters casual conversations, problem-solving, and trusted relationships. Our goal is to create an environment where we all win with precision.

Job Description

Your Career

As a Principal Software Engineer in test on our Prisma Access Cloud Service team, you will design, develop and deliver next-generation technologies. You will build, automate, and run performance testing scenarios for our products in virtualized elements.

We are looking for highly technical individuals driven in their desire to get hands-on experience with a wide variety of networking technologies. You'll work closely with our development and product management teams, testing and presenting the results to identify new approaches. 

You will participate in design discussions and help make a difference in developing the future direction of our software.

You will drive the efficiency and reliability of our products by testing them thoroughly to understand potential risks, bugs, or issues, providing an exemplary product experience for our end users. You strive for the best in everything you do—meaning you won’t rest until the products you work on are of the highest quality. You love hunting for problems within code, seeking issues to correct, and enjoy the challenge of a code-based scavenger hunt that includes testing, providing feedback, and identifying alternative suggestions for our product’s environment.

Prisma Access™ extends the protection of our next-generation security platform. Prisma Access Cloud Service operationalizes the deployment by leveraging a cloud-based security infrastructure operated by Palo Alto Networks. It uses cutting-edge public and private cloud technologies extending the next generation security protection to all cloud services, customers on-premise remote networks and mobile users.

Your Impact

  • Design, develop and execute test automation to test software features on our next-generation security platform as part of our Prisma Access Cloud Service
  • Become inventive in testing approaches by building tools and automation scripts  
  • Suggest and implement improvements to the test process
  • File bugs and work with Development to fix issues seen
  • Mix in your creative skills with a focused testing approach to produce the best quality products in cybersecurity  
  • Be involved in a rigorous approach to testing for specifications, assist the team with testing methods or tools for new testing
  • You will also have the chance to work on different public cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) to automate cloud orchestration, visualization and alerting mecha

Qualifications

Your Experience

  • Be proficient in one or more scripting/programming languages including Python or Go
  • Experience with IPSec, BGP, L3 VPNs, SD-WAN, DHCP, TCP, UDP
  • Networking - Expert level Experience with REST API driven Automation using Python or Go
  • Experience with Cloud Technologies such Aws/Azure/GCP 
  • Experience with DB clusters (MySQL,BQ, Redis,,Zookeeper,Neo
  • Experience with Linux or Esxi Virtualization or Docker/Kubernetes is a plus
  • 10+ years experience
  • M.S./B.S. degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering or equivalent military experience required

Additional Information

The Team 

Our engineering team is at the core of our products – connected directly to the mission of preventing cyberattacks. We are constantly innovating – challenging the way we, and the industry, think about cybersecurity. Our engineers don’t shy away from building products to solve problems no one has pursued before. We define the industry, instead of waiting for directions. We need individuals who feel comfortable in ambiguity, excited by the prospect of a challenge, and empowered by the unknown risks facing our everyday lives that are only enabled by a secure digital environment. 

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/commissioned roles) is expected to be between $147000/yr - $225500/yr. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here

Our Commitment

We’re problem solvers that 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  [email protected].

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.

Average salary estimate

$186250 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$147000K
$225500K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Principal Software Engineers in Test Automation (Prisma Access), Palo Alto Networks

Join Palo Alto Networks as a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation for our Prisma Access Cloud Service team in sunny Santa Clara, CA! In this role, you'll immerse yourself in designing and developing cutting-edge technologies that help protect our digital way of life. You'll be responsible for building, automating, and executing performance testing scenarios on our next-generation security platform. Your technical expertise in scripting languages like Python or Go will be invaluable as you collaborate closely with our development and product management teams to identify new approaches and deliver high-quality products. If you're driven by a passion for finding bugs, leveraging your networking knowledge, and ensuring exceptional product experiences, this position is perfect for you! We encourage innovation and allow you to put your creative problem-solving skills to work, suggesting improvements to our testing processes along the way. Picture yourself testing software features, automating tests, and diving into the ever-evolving world of cloud technologies like AWS or Azure, all while being part of an unstoppable team dedicated to redefining cybersecurity. At Palo Alto Networks, we recognize the importance of collaboration, and our work environment supports flexible arrangements that promote relationship-building. If you're looking for a chance to make a real difference while enjoying a career that respects your individuality and supports your growth, we'd love to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Principal Software Engineers in Test Automation (Prisma Access) Role at Palo Alto Networks
What are the key responsibilities of a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks?

As a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks, your primary responsibilities will include designing, developing, and executing automated tests for our Prisma Access Cloud Service. You will focus on ensuring the quality and performance of our software features, collaborating with development teams to identify risks and bugs, and implementing improvements to the test process, all while leveraging your expertise in networking and cloud technologies.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks?

To qualify for the Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation role at Palo Alto Networks, candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on test automation. Proficiency in scripting languages like Python or Go is essential, alongside a strong understanding of networking concepts and cloud technologies such as AWS, Azure, or GCP. A degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent military experience, is also required.

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How does the testing approach differ for a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks?

The testing approach for a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks is innovative and highly collaborative. You'll drive efficiency by relying on automation tools and scripts to test features on the Prisma Access Cloud Service. This role encourages creative problem-solving and continuous improvement, allowing you to experiment with new testing methods and technologies to enhance product quality in cybersecurity.

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What kind of projects will a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation work on?

A Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks will work on projects related to the Prisma Access Cloud Service, focusing on building automated testing frameworks for security solutions that extend protection for users across cloud services and on-premise environments. You will also have opportunities to explore various cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, and Azure, enhancing your knowledge of automation in different settings.

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What is the company culture like for a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation at Palo Alto Networks?

The company culture at Palo Alto Networks is collaborative and dynamic, placing a strong emphasis on innovation and employee well-being. Our Principal Software Engineers in Test Automation are valued for their unique contributions, and we foster an inclusive environment where diverse teams work together to tackle challenges in cybersecurity. We encourage continuous learning and provide flexible work arrangements to support personal and professional growth.

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Common Interview Questions for Principal Software Engineers in Test Automation (Prisma Access)
Can you explain your experience with automation frameworks as a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation?

When discussing your experience with automation frameworks, focus on specific frameworks you've worked with, such as Selenium, Appium, or custom-built solutions. Provide examples of projects where you integrated these frameworks into the development process to improve testing efficiency and quality. Highlight any innovations you've contributed to these frameworks, showcasing your problem-solving skills.

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What strategies do you use for performance testing in security platforms?

In performance testing for security platforms, it's crucial to simulate real-world traffic and identify bottlenecks. Talk about specific tools you have used, such as JMeter or LoadRunner, and explain how you set up testing scenarios. Mention your approach to analyzing the results and your strategies for addressing any performance issues discovered during testing.

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How do you ensure the reliability of your automated tests?

To ensure the reliability of automated tests, emphasize the importance of creating comprehensive scripts with good coverage. Discuss how you regularly maintain and update test scripts to align with new features, as well as your use of continuous integration tools like Jenkins or CircleCI. Offer examples of how you've resolved flaky tests and enhanced the overall testing strategy.

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How would you handle a situation where a critical bug is found just before a product release?

Approach this question by outlining your immediate steps. Explain how you would assess the severity of the bug, possibly isolating its causes before communicating with the development team and management. Highlight the importance of prioritizing a timely fix while balancing communication with stakeholders to set realistic expectations about the release timeline.

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What is your process for collaborating with development teams on testing requirements?

Describe your collaborative approach when working with development teams on testing requirements. Talk about how you facilitate discussions during the development lifecycle, employing techniques such as building test cases early on and participating in design discussions. Emphasize the significance of fostering open communication channels to ensure comprehensive input from all parties involved.

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Can you provide an example of a challenging bug you encountered and how you resolved it?

When sharing an example of a challenging bug, provide context and specifics about the problem. Outline the steps you took to diagnose the issue, the tools or methods used, and the ultimate resolution process. Highlight what you learned from the experience and how it contributed to improving your team's testing practices moving forward.

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What experience do you have with cloud technologies relevant to this role?

Discuss your hands-on experience with cloud technologies, including any specific platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP. Mention projects where you've leveraged cloud resources for testing and development as well as how you've automated tasks or processes within those environments. This showcases your ability to adapt to rapid technological advancements.

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How do you stay updated on the latest trends in cybersecurity and testing automation?

Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning by discussing sources like blogs, webinars, and conferences that keep you informed about cybersecurity and testing automation trends. Mention your participation in relevant workshops or online courses and how you apply newfound knowledge to your role as a Principal Software Engineer in Test Automation.

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What coding standards do you follow to maintain quality in your test automation code?

Talk about the coding standards or best practices you adhere to when writing test automation code, such as utilizing clean, modular code with meaningful naming conventions. Mention the importance of code reviews and adhering to industry standards in terms of documentation to facilitate collaboration and maintainability of your testing scripts.

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How do you approach creating a testing strategy for new features?

Outline your structured approach to developing a testing strategy for new features. This should include gathering requirements, identifying test scenarios, defining success criteria, and determining the necessary automation coverage. Discuss how you involve team members during this process to ensure comprehensive test planning and execution.

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Being the cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting our digital way of life.

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DATE POSTED
April 12, 2025

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