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Palo Alto Networks is seeking an exceptional Senior Principal Engineer to lead and shape our SD-WAN Datapath testing. In this critical role, you will drive the quality and reliability of our next-generation SD-WAN solutions by designing and implementing advanced test automation, leveraging AI/ML technologies, and establishing best practices for datapath validation at scale.
Job Responsibility:
Test Strategy & Architecture: Define and execute comprehensive testing strategies for SD-WAN datapath features including packet forwarding, QoS, traffic shaping, tunneling protocols, and performance optimization
AI-Driven Testing: Design and implement AI/ML-based testing solutions for intelligent test case generation, anomaly detection, predictive failure analysis, and automated root cause identification
Automation Framework Development: Build and maintain robust, scalable test automation frameworks using modern programming languages (Python) and industry-standard tools
Performance & Scale Testing: Develop methodologies to validate datapath performance, throughput, latency, and scalability across diverse network topologies and conditions
Technical Leadership: Mentor engineering teams, conduct design reviews, and establish quality engineering standards across the organization
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with development, product management, and DevOps teams to ensure quality is integrated throughout the SDLC
CI/CD Integration: Integrate automated test suites into CI/CD pipelines for continuous validation and rapid feedback
Innovation: Research and evaluate emerging technologies in network testing, AI/ML applications, and test optimization techniques
Requirements:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering
15+ years of relevant industry experience
Deep understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, IPsec, GRE, VXLAN), routing, switching, and network security concepts
8+ years of experience in test automation with strong programming skills in Python
Hands-on experience applying AI/ML techniques to testing challenges - test optimization, intelligent analytics, pattern recognition, or predictive modeling
Experience with test frameworks (pytest), traffic generators ( Ixia, Spirent, IPerf), and network simulation tools
Ability to design distributed, scalable test architectures for complex network environments
Exceptional analytical and debugging skills with proven ability to troubleshoot complex network and software issues
Track record of leading technical initiatives and influencing engineering culture
Nice to have:
SD-WAN Experience: Hands-on experience with SD-WAN technologies, architectures, and vendors (Prisma SD-WAN, Cisco Viptela, VMware VeloCloud, etc.)
Cloud Platforms: Experience testing applications in AWS, Azure, GCP, or multi-cloud environments
Network Performance Analysis: Experience with tools like Wireshark, tcpdump, iperf, and network telemetry platforms