Demo

Principal Embedded Software Developer

Fortinet
Sunnyvale, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 4/25/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/24/2026

Join Fortinet, a cybersecurity pioneer with over two decades of excellence, as we continue to shape the future of cybersecurity and redefine the intersection of networking and security. At Fortinet, our mission is to safeguard people, devices, and data everywhere. We are currently seeking a Principal Embedded Software Developer for our FortiSwitch Team

As a Principal Embedded Software Developer, you will:

  • Develop and maintain software components on current and future products.
  • Be responsible for the development of the networking-related features of the FortiSwitch product line.
  • Mentor 1-2 junior developers in feature development
  • Take a hands on in bug fixing current products.
  • Implement software features of high quality and on schedule.
  • Communicate effectively, both verbal and written.

We Are Looking For:

  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in Networking, particularly in switching, related embedded software development.
  • B.S. in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering; M.S. preferred.
  • Experience in implementing L2/L3 features such as STP, DHCP, LACP, LLDP, MC-LAG, Private VLAN, L2/L3 Multicast, EVPN, RIP, OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, TRILL 803.1X, Port Extension, Switch Stacking, Open vSwitch.
  • In-depth knowledge of TCP/IP networking, switching and routing.
  • Understanding of workings of Broadcom/Marvell/RealTek switching ASICs in an Ethernet switch/router.
  • Strong C/C experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential.
  • Experience with ARM, PPC and x86 architectures in a multi process/thread programming environment
  • Familiarity with system installations, configurations, and troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of scripting languages: Shell, Ruby, Python a plus.
  • Understanding of general QA procedures and methodologies as well as software development fundamentals.
  • Experience with firewalls is a plus
  • Experience with Linux kernel and driver development is plus.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $170,000 - $210,000. 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 labor 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 time of hire and annually at the Company's discretion.

About Our Team:

Join our team, known for its collaborative ethos, working seamlessly with global customers, internal engineering teams and product development groups. Our team culture emphasizes continuous learning, innovation, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. We embrace Fortinet's core values of openness, teamwork and innovation, fostering an environment where team members support each other, share knowledge. Our inclusive and dynamic team thrives on collaboration and is driven by the shared goal of maintaining Fortinet's high standards of excellence in cybersecurity solutions

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 660,000 customers around the globe


EEOC / AAPAccommodation: If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact Fortinet, Inc at (408) 235-7700 of accommodations@fortinet.com for assistance.EEO: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.

 

Salary.com Estimation for Principal Embedded Software Developer in Sunnyvale, CA
$172,465 to $203,891
If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets

What is the career path for a Principal Embedded Software Developer?

Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs on the Principal Embedded Software Developer career path by checking the boxes next to the positions that interest you.
Income Estimation: 
$90,609 - $105,383
Income Estimation: 
$117,524 - $131,245
Income Estimation: 
$162,729 - $194,659
Income Estimation: 
$173,217 - $199,061

Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs with skills like those required for the Principal Embedded Software Developer.

Click the checkbox next to the jobs that you are interested in.

  • Bug/Defect Analysis Skill

    • Income Estimation: $90,707 - $120,959
    • Income Estimation: $94,044 - $125,068
  • Debugging Skill

    • Income Estimation: $90,707 - $120,959
    • Income Estimation: $94,625 - $127,578
Employees: Get a Salary Increase
View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

Job openings at Fortinet

  • Fortinet New Orleans, LA
  • Job Description We are seeking a Sales Engineer to partner with a Named Account Manager in a defined territory. This role is designed for a technically str... more
  • 1 Day Ago

  • Fortinet Trenton, NJ
  • The Emerging MSSP Channel Account Manager will build and promote the Company's position as the worldwide leader in Unified Threat Management, specifically ... more
  • 1 Day Ago

  • Fortinet Boston, MA
  • We are seeking a Sales Engineer to partner with a Named Account Manager in a defined territory. This role is designed for a technically strong but strategi... more
  • 1 Day Ago

  • Fortinet Sunnyvale, CA
  • Fortinet is seeking a Principal Software Development QA Engineer to join our team. This role is integral to our R&D team, ensuring the productivity, reliab... more
  • 1 Day Ago


Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Principal Embedded Software Developer jobs in the Sunnyvale, CA area that may be a better fit.

  • Candidate Experience site Sunnyvale, CA
  • Job Responsibilities: Develop and maintain software components on current and future networking related products. Hands on in bug fixing current products. ... more
  • 3 Days Ago

  • Cisco Milpitas, CA
  • The application window is expected to close on: 05/20/2026 Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applic... more
  • 28 Days Ago

AI Assistant is available now!

Feel free to start your new journey!