Junior Firmware Engineer – Network Security & Filtering
About The Position
You will work on network security features within our OpenWrt-based firmware, including firewall rules, DNS-based content filtering, and IDS/IPS configuration. This role is designed for junior engineers who want to learn embedded network security in a structured, mentored environment. Your initial focus will be on understanding existing security components, validating behavior through testing, and making incremental improvements—not designing security architecture independently. This role is based in San Jose, California, our primary firmware engineering hub, enabling close collaboration with platform and wireless teams.
Requirements
- B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or related field (0–2 years experience)
- Proficiency in C and basic scripting (Python or shell)
- Understanding of core networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls)
- Familiarity with Linux environments
- Analytical mindset and attention to detail
- Interest in learning secure development practices
- Deep security expertise is not expected at entry. Curiosity, careful thinking, and a willingness to learn are more important than prior security depth.
Nice To Haves
- Exposure to IDS/IPS tools, firewalls, or content filtering
- Coursework or projects related to network security
- Experience analyzing network traffic
- Participation in open-source projects
Responsibilities
- Configure, test, and tune existing IDS/IPS systems under senior guidance
- Assist with DNS filtering and firewall rule improvements
- Write test cases to validate expected security behavior
- Analyze logs and network traffic to understand detections and outcomes
- Contribute to security specifications and documentation with mentorship
- Use AI tools for log analysis and research with careful validation
- Participate in code reviews and security discussions
Benefits
- medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance
- 401(k)
- 11 paid holidays
- vacation time, and sick time
- a comprehensive leave program
- All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program.
- Bonus eligibility is reviewed at the time of hire and annually at the Company’s discretion.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
