What is the salary for this role?

Zscaler has not stated compensation in the listing. Check the original posting or ask during the application process.

Is the Senior Staff Software Development Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane) position remote, hybrid or onsite?

The listing gives Santa Clara, California, USA as the location and does not state a work mode.

What is the application deadline?

Zscaler has not listed a fixed deadline, so apply early in case the opening is filled.

Greenhouse · Posted 8 Oct 2026

full-time

Senior Staff Software Development Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane)

Zscaler · Santa Clara, California, USA

Zscaler operates a global cloud security platform focused on zero trust architecture, protecting enterprise users and applications from cyber threats. As a Senior Staff Software Development Engineer, you will focus on the design and implementation of high-performance datapath features. Your daily responsibilities will involve developing load balancing solutions, firewall rules, and L7 protocol implementations. You will be expected to leverage your deep expertise in C programming, data structures, and networking protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP, and SSL/TLS to build scalable, secure infrastructure. This role requires a candidate who can independently drive complex architectural projects from initial concept through to large-scale deployment within a Linux-based environment. The position is well-suited for a seasoned engineer with over eight years of experience in commercial networking and security applications who possesses a strong aptitude for system optimization and a commitment to high-impact, scalable software engineering. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to solve intricate security challenges while maintaining a focus on performance and reliability across a global distributed network.

c programmingnetworking protocolsdataplaneload balancingl7 protocolscloud securitylinuxsoftware architecturesenior staff engineer

Zscaler (NASDAQ: ZS) accelerates digital transformation so customers can be more agile, efficient, resilient, and secure. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange platform protects thousands of customers from cyberattacks and data loss by securely connecting users, devices, and applications in any location. Distributed across 200+ public data centers globally and thousands of private sites at the edge, the SASE-based Zero Trust Exchange is the world’s largest in-line cloud security platform. We believe the future of work is Human + AI and are building an AI-native enterprise where human potential is amplified by machine intelligence to solve the world’s hardest security challenges. Driven by deep customer obsession, we are committed to the mission, outcome, and to each other. We bring these commitments to life through three core behaviors: ownership and collaboration, trust through outcomes and impact, and a challenge culture with ongoing feedback. Ready to make an impact at the company pioneering security transformation in the AI era? Join us at Zscaler. Role We are looking for a Senior Staff Software Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane) to join our Engineering Team. This is a Hybrid (San Jose, CA 3 days a week in office) role, reporting to the Senior Director, Software Development Engineering. The Senior Staff Software Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane) will design and implement high-performance data path features for load balancing and L7 protocols, directly enhancing the scalability and security of global networking infrastructure. By leveraging deep C programming expertise and autonomous ownership, they will drive complex architectural projects from initial concept to large-scale deployment. What you’ll do (Role Expectations) Design and implement Datapath features related to Load Balancer, Firewall rules and L7 Protocol implementations Apply deep knowledge of C programming, data structures, and algorithms to build high-performance systems Independently drive moderately complex projects from conception to deployment with full ownership Utilize expert knowledge of networking protocols and services including DNS, HTTP, TCP/IP, and SSL/TLS Leverage Unix or Linux operating systems knowledge to optimize networking and security applications Who You Are (Success Profile) You act like an owner. Your passion for the mission fuels your bias for action. You operate with integrity because you genuinely care about the outcome. You adapt to what’s needed, navigating seamlessly between high-level strategy and hands-on execution. You are a high-trust collaborator. You are ambitious for the team, not just yourself. You embrace our challenge culture by giving and receiving ongoing feedback—knowing that candor delivered with clarity and respect is the truest form of teamwork and the fastest way to earn trust. You are customer-obsessed. You build deep empathy for the customer—both internal and external—and anchor your decisions in solving their real-world problems. You champion their needs from start to finish, knowing their success is our success. You operate with urgency. You understand that in a high-growth environment, speed and quality are not mutually exclusive. You have a relentless focus on execution and a bias for action, delivering high-impact results quickly to win for the customer and the team. You think at scale. You connect your day-to-day work to the larger company mission and think globally. You build solutions, processes, and teams that are not just effective today but are built to last and support a high-growth, global organization. What We’re Looking for (Minimum Qualifications) Demonstrated curiosity and active exploration of AI tools, with a proven history of integrating new technologies to enhance daily workflows and augment problem-solving 8+ years of experience building large-scale commercial networking and security applications with proficiency in programming languages C or C++ Strong foundational knowledge in data structures and algorithms Working experience in Linux, Unix, or similar operating systems BS or MS degree in CS/CE or equivalent experience What Will Make You Stand Out (Preferred Qualifications) Exposure to AI-assisted software development tools and workflows, with the ability to apply them to improve engineering productivity and delivery quality Advanced knowledge of networking protocols and services, specifically DNS, HTTP, TCP/IP, and SSL/TLS #LI-KM9 #LI-Hybrid Zscaler’s salary ranges are benchmarked and are determined by role and level. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations and could be higher or lower based on a multitude of factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The base salary range listed for this full-time position excludes commission/ bonus/ equity (if applicable) + benefits. Base Pay Range $157,500 — $225,000 USD At Zscaler, we ar

Role	Senior Staff Software Development Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane)
Company	Zscaler
Location	Santa Clara, California, USA
Type	full-time
Compensation	Not disclosed
Posted	2026-10-08
Deadline	Rolling

Typical process for this type of role

A general guide — the exact steps for this specific listing may vary; check the original posting for details.

1ApplicationSubmit your resume through the apply link.
2ScreeningRecruiter reviews your background against the role.
3AssessmentA technical test, assignment, or coding round, depending on the role.
4Interview(s)One or more rounds with the hiring team.
5OfferOffer letter with compensation and start date.

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