Staff Software Development Engineer

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain distributed Java applications and services deployed across multi-node clusters.
• Architect systems for horizontal scalability, high availability, and fault tolerance.
• Lead design and implementation efforts involving data partitioning, replication, consensus algorithms, and leader election.
• Develop and maintain core software components across current and next-generation networking products; proactively own bug fixing and system reliability.
• Profile, optimize, and tune JVM-based applications for performance and resource efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with DevOps and QA teams to ensure high-quality software delivery in CI/CD environments.
• Participate in code reviews, technical design discussions, and performance diagnostics.
• Continuously evaluate and adopt new technologies and frameworks to enhance distributed system capabilities.
• Provide mentorship and technical leadership to mid-level and senior engineers.

Requirements

• 8+ years of hands-on software engineering experience with a strong foundation in computer science (algorithms, concurrency, distributed computing).
• Deep expertise in Java, including multithreading, network programming, object-oriented design, and JVM internals.
• Proven experience in building and scaling clustered Java applications in production environments.
• Solid understanding of distributed systems principles (CAP theorem, consistency models, data replication, fault tolerance).
• Proficiency with gRPC, Protocol Buffers, and/or reactive programming models.
• Strong knowledge of Linux internals: kernel, system libraries, shell scripting, and system utilities.
• Deep understanding of Layer 2/3 networking protocols and related technologies (Firewall, VLAN, SSL/TLS, IPSec, TCP/IP).
• Strong experience in code profiling, debugging, and performance optimization.
• Experience with relational or column-oriented databases, schema design, and query performance tuning.
• Hands-on experience with Redis, including its use for caching, data partitioning, pub/sub messaging, and persistence in distributed environments.
• Familiarity with DevOps principles and Continuous Delivery best practices.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, agile development environment.

Nice to Have

• M.S. in Computer Science or related field (preferred).

Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science or related field (required).
• M.S. is preferred.

Benefits & Perks

• US base salary range of $179,500-$219,300.
• Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• 11 paid holidays, vacation time, sick time, and a comprehensive leave program.
• Participation in the Fortinet equity program.
• Bonus eligibility at hire and annually at the company's discretion.
• Supportive work environment and Total Rewards package.