Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy, and consent to receive emails from Rise
Jobs / Job page
Systems Engineering Manager image - Rise Careers
Job details

Systems Engineering Manager

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!

Job Description

Your Career

The Manager, Systems Engineering, Commercial is the technical leader for a team of 11 Systems Engineers distributed nationally. You will guide and develop your team to become comprehensive architects with multi-discipline skill sets, fostering cross-training in SOC, Cloud, Networking, and NetSec. You will drive a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, ensuring your team members become true platform experts across the full Palo Alto Networks portfolio. 

You will work closely with the District Sales Managers, Regional Vice Presidents and, along with your team, build relationships with customers with the goal of helping them detect and prevent advanced cyberattacks and breaches. Your mentorship will help the team translate technical expertise into business value discussions, equipping them to engage CIOs, CTOs, and CISOs with cost-benefit analyses that drive strategic decisions. You will also nurture talent within your team and provide valuable feedback to the product management team on new feature requests and product improvements based on insights gained from customer interactions.

Your Impact

  • Recruit and hire top-tier Systems Engineers into the territory, fostering a team with diverse technical skills across SOC, Cloud, Networking, and NetSec
  • Provide training, mentoring, and career development support to ensure team members evolve into multi-discipline architects across the Palo Alto Networks platform
  • Support the team in complex evaluations, problem-solving, and challenging customer environments
  • Lead and coach team members on successful technical validation efforts, ensuring technical wins in assigned opportunities
  • Define and monitor individual development plans for each team member, fostering growth into portfolio architects
  • Drive cross-training initiatives across SOC, Cloud, Networking, and NetSec to develop well-rounded security experts
  • Ensure the team can articulate business value through proposals, cost-benefit analysis, and business consulting
  • Work closely with Professional Services, Customer Success, and Specialist teams to ensure overall customer implementation and adoption of solutions
  • Provide technical leadership in customer interactions, sharing security trends and standard methodologies to enhance the selling process
  • Drive Palo Alto Networks platform adoption within customer accounts by aligning technical solutions with business imperatives
  • Act as an escalation point for pre-sales and post-sales teams for any technical issues
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers to establish reference accounts and assist in defining expansion strategies
  • Present to customers as an expert at all levels, from technical practitioners to CIOs, CTOs, and CISOs, driving business discussions centered around value versus cost
  • Develop deep competitive knowledge and coach the team on effectively positioning Palo Alto Networks solutions against competitors
  • Ensure the team is adept at architecting large, complex environments and guiding customers in designing end-to-end security solutions
  • Collaborate with Product Management, Technical Marketing, and R&D to provide feedback from customer engagements and influence product development
  • Travel up to 30-50% nationally to support team development and customer engagements

Qualifications

Your Experience

  • Experience leading pre-sales Systems Engineering teams with a focus on technical mentorship and career development
  • Strong technical background as a Senior System Engineer/Specialist with experience across multiple security domains
  • Expertise in architecting comprehensive security solutions, spanning Network Security, SASE, SaaS, CNAPP, and SOC transformation technologies
  • Deep understanding of competitive landscape and ability to differentiate Palo Alto Networks offerings
  • Proven ability to translate technical solutions into business value, guiding customers through cost-benefit analysis discussions
  • Strong business acumen and near-term potential to grow team into a C-level advisors 
  • Experience with proposals, business value consulting, and cost-benefit analysis
  • Exceptional communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills
  • Ability to develop strategic technical plans in collaboration with Sales leadership
  • Passion for fostering cross-functional collaboration and continuous technical learning within a team

Additional Information

The Team

Our Systems Engineering team members work hand-in-hand with large organizations worldwide to keep their digital environments protected. We educate, inspire, and empower our potential clients in their journey to security.

You are empowered with unmatched systems and tools and a team built on joint success. You won’t find someone at Palo Alto Networks that isn’t committed to your success – with everyone pitching in to assist when it comes to solutions selling, learning, and development. Our Systems Engineering community is driven by the mission to be our customers’ cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting their digital way of life.

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/com-missioned roles) is expected to be between $224000/YR - $308000/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

$266000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$224000K
$308000K

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 Systems Engineering Manager, Palo Alto Networks

Join Palo Alto Networks as a Systems Engineering Manager and be at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation! Based in Dallas, TX, you will lead a talented team of 11 Systems Engineers across various specializations, including SOC, Cloud, and Networking. Your role is to mentor and guide your team in developing their skills, creating a collaborative environment where they can thrive. You'll play a critical part in helping organizations detect and prevent advanced cyberattacks, all while fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including CIOs and CISOs. Your expertise will help translate complex technical solutions into business value discussions, equipping your team to engage effectively with clients at all levels. This position requires a blend of technical capability and business acumen, as you'll also be involved in developing strategic plans and driving adoption of Palo Alto Networks' offerings. As a leader, you will ensure that your engineers are well-rounded specialists, capable of addressing intricate security landscapes. You'll have the freedom to travel nationally, fostering team development and driving customer engagement. At Palo Alto Networks, we believe in investing in our people, so expect opportunities for ongoing learning and personal growth. Join us in shaping a safer digital future and making an impact in the cybersecurity world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Systems Engineering Manager Role at Palo Alto Networks
What are the key responsibilities of a Systems Engineering Manager at Palo Alto Networks?

The Systems Engineering Manager at Palo Alto Networks plays a vital role in leading a team of Systems Engineers. This involves mentoring team members, guiding them through technical challenges, and fostering multi-disciplinary skill sets across SOC, Cloud, Networking, and NetSec. Additionally, they work closely with sales leadership to develop strategic plans that align technical solutions with customer business imperatives, and they mentor the team in translating technical discussions into business value, which is crucial for engaging high-level stakeholders.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are needed for a Systems Engineering Manager position at Palo Alto Networks?

Candidates for the Systems Engineering Manager role at Palo Alto Networks should have a strong background in leading pre-sales engineering teams, with an emphasis on technical mentorship. An extensive technical background as a Senior Systems Engineer or Specialist is required, particularly across multiple security domains. Understanding how to architect comprehensive security solutions and the ability to conduct cost-benefit analyses are also key qualifications for this important position.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does the Systems Engineering Manager at Palo Alto Networks contribute to team development?

The Systems Engineering Manager at Palo Alto Networks is responsible for recruiting top talent and facilitating career development for team members. This includes providing ongoing training, supporting individual development plans, and driving cross-training initiatives across various technical areas. By nurturing an environment of continuous learning and professional growth, the manager ensures the team evolves into well-rounded security architects.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What kind of technical skills are essential for a Systems Engineering Manager at Palo Alto Networks?

Essential technical skills for the Systems Engineering Manager include expertise in Network Security, SASE, SaaS, and various cybersecurity transformation technologies. A deep understanding of the competitive landscape and the ability to position Palo Alto Networks solutions effectively against competitors are crucial for driving customer engagement and ensuring successful technical validation efforts during pre-sales.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What benefits does Palo Alto Networks offer for Systems Engineering Managers?

Palo Alto Networks offers an attractive compensation package for Systems Engineering Managers, which includes a competitive base salary, potential bonuses, and stock units. The company also provides extensive employee benefits, including a flexible wellbeing spending account, mental and financial health resources, and personalized learning opportunities. All of this is part of Palo Alto Networks' commitment to support the individual needs of their employees.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Systems Engineering Manager
Can you describe your experience with leading technical teams in a pre-sales environment?

When discussing your experience, emphasize specific examples where you've successfully led teams in pre-sales situations. Highlight your mentoring approach, how you fostered collaboration, and ensured team members were equipped to address complex customer needs. It's also crucial to convey your understanding of bridging technical solutions with business value.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you use for mentoring and developing your team members?

In your response, outline your mentoring methods, such as conducting regular one-on-one meetings, setting clear developmental goals, and providing constructive feedback. Discuss the importance of fostering an environment that encourages continuous learning and cross-training to develop well-rounded specialists.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach building relationships with key customers?

Explain your strategies for establishing strong relationships with key customers, such as understanding their business challenges, providing tailored solutions, and maintaining open lines of communication. Discuss the value of acting as a trusted advisor, guiding them through complex technical discussions.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your method for addressing technical challenges during customer interactions?

Discuss a structured problem-solving approach where you assess customer challenges, engage your team for collective input, and deliver expert guidance. Highlight the importance of being agile and responsive to technical issues, while also ensuring customers feel supported through the resolution process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you share an example of how you translated technical solutions into business value for clients?

Provide a specific instance where you successfully conveyed the business value of a technical solution to a client. Highlight how you conducted a cost-benefit analysis, addressed stakeholder concerns, and illustrated the alignment between their needs and your proposed solutions.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay updated on cybersecurity trends and competitive offerings?

Detail your approach to staying informed, such as attending industry conferences, participating in webinars, and regularly reading cybersecurity publications. Also, mention the value of networking with other professionals in the field to gain different perspectives and insights.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What do you consider the most critical skills for a Systems Engineering Manager?

Discuss key skills such as strong technical knowledge, effective leadership, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of how to align technology with business strategy. Explain how these skills support team development and customer engagement.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you handle a situation where team members disagree on a technical approach?

Describe your conflict resolution strategies, emphasizing collaboration and open dialogue. Explain the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and the best solution is derived through collective input and evidence-based discussions.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role does cross-training play in your leadership style as a Systems Engineering Manager?

Discuss the advantages of cross-training, such as developing a versatile team that can tackle a variety of challenges, reducing single points of failure, and enhancing collaboration. Provide examples of how you have implemented cross-training initiatives in past roles.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you define success in your role as a Systems Engineering Manager?

Share your vision of success, which may include metrics such as team engagement, customer satisfaction, successful project implementations, and providing business value through innovative solutions. Highlight that success is also about fostering growth and creating a positive team culture.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User

Join Palo Alto Networks as a Senior Staff Software Engineer, focusing on macOS development to enhance cybersecurity solutions.

Photo of the Rise User

Join Palo Alto Networks as a Principal Engineer Software to lead the development of scalable cloud-native solutions in cybersecurity.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 5 hours ago

Join ZF as a Reliability Engineer II in Gray Court and help shape the future of mobility while supporting vital maintenance operations.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 10 days ago

Be a pivotal part of INflow Federal's mission as a Senior DevOps Engineer, driving technological advancements for the Department of Defense.

Photo of the Rise User
Swanson Rink Hybrid Denver, Colorado, United States
Posted yesterday

Join Swanson Rink as a Senior Mechanical Engineer and lead the design of innovative mechanical solutions for complex projects.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted yesterday
Customer-Centric
Rapid Growth
Diversity of Opinions
Reward & Recognition
Friends Outside of Work
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Feedback Forward
Work/Life Harmony
Casual Dress Code
Startup Mindset
Collaboration over Competition
Fast-Paced
Growth & Learning
Open Door Policy
Rise from Within
Maternity Leave
Paternity Leave
Flex-Friendly
Family Coverage (Insurance)
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Mental Health Resources
Life insurance
Disability Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
401K Matching
Paid Holidays
Paid Sick Days
Paid Time-Off

Join our team as a Structural Engineer specializing in steel structures, contributing to diverse industrial and commercial projects in Miami.

Photo of the Rise User
Transparent & Candid
Mission Driven
Work/Life Harmony
Customer-Centric
Take Risks
Fast-Paced
Medical Insurance
Maternity Leave
Equity
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Paternity Leave
Company Retreats
Dental Insurance
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
401K Matching
Unlimited Vacation
Vision Insurance
Mental Health Resources
Life insurance
Disability Insurance
Photo of the Rise User
American Express Remote Chicago, Illinois, United States
Posted 9 days ago
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Collaboration over Competition
Growth & Learning
Transparent & Candid
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Mental Health Resources
Life insurance
Disability Insurance
Child Care stipend
Employee Resource Groups
Learning & Development

Join Amex Tech as an Engineer for Tock, leveraging your expertise to shape cutting-edge hospitality technology solutions.

Posted 15 hours ago

Take charge of electrical operations as a Foreman, leading commercial projects with expertise and hands-on leadership in North Carolina.

Photo of the Rise User
Saab Group Remote US, Onondaga County, NY; New York State, East Syracuse, NY
Posted 14 days ago

Join Saab as a Senior Staff Radar Systems Engineer Analyst and be at the forefront of developing advanced radar systems and capabilities.

Photo of the Rise User
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Collaboration over Competition
Mission Driven
Social Impact Driven
Diversity of Opinions
Growth & Learning
Photo of the Rise User
Inclusive & Diverse
Rise from Within
Mission Driven
Diversity of Opinions
Work/Life Harmony
Transparent & Candid
Growth & Learning
Fast-Paced
Collaboration over Competition
Take Risks
Friends Outside of Work
Passion for Exploration
Customer-Centric
Reward & Recognition
Feedback Forward
Rapid Growth
Medical Insurance
Paid Time-Off
Maternity Leave
Mental Health Resources
Equity
Paternity Leave
Fully Distributed
Flex-Friendly
Some Meals Provided
Snacks
Social Gatherings
Pet Friendly
Company Retreats
Dental Insurance
Life insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Photo of the Rise User
Posted last month

Join ABC Legal Services as a Data Entry Specialist where you can work remotely and support our team in the legal document filing process.

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

1287 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 5, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Tallmadge just viewed Manufacturing and Process Engineer at CVRx
Q
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Part-Time Medical Assistant at QualDerm Partners
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Summer 2025 Intern – Finance – Michigan at Stryker
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Remote Customer Service Representative at Conduent
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Customer Support Team Lead (6-month Contract) at Jane App
o
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Marketing and Communications Consultant at osu
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Toledo just viewed Registered Nurse (Part-time) at Calibrate
Photo of the Rise User
19 people applied to Machinist Apprentice at LLNL
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Toledo just viewed Clinical Research Associate II at Alimentiv
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed IT Support Engineer at Level AI
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Dayton just viewed Customer Content Specialist at Cision
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cuyahoga Falls just viewed Senior Corporate Communications Manager at Bumble Inc.
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior Financial Analyst at Workday
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Financial Planning and Analysis Lead at JLL
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior Financial Analyst at American Express
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior Analyst, Operations at American Express
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Strategic Finance Analyst, Corporate at Benchling
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior Analyst, Project Finance at Apex Clean Energy
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior FP&A Analyst, Sales at GitLab
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed FP&A Analyst at Lithic