Software Engineer III
Proofpoint is hiring a Software Engineer III. Level rates it ; you can apply on Level.
Level's read on this job
- Little AI ●○○○ is how Level rates this software engineer role: aI is not part of the work.
- Tools and skills the posting cites include AI agents, cybersecurity and threat detection.
- Level files it as a senior role.
- Level lists 117 other open roles at Proofpoint.
AI in this role
Software Engineer III to build and deploy large-scale threat detection services for cybersecurity offerings.
About Us:
Proofpoint is a global leader in human- and agent-centric cybersecurity. We protect how people, data, and AI agents connect across email, cloud, and collaboration tools. Over 80 of the Fortune 100, 10,000 large enterprises, and millions of smaller organizations trust Proofpoint to stop threats, prevent data loss, and build resilience across their people and AI workflows. Our mission is simple: safeguard the digital world and empower people to work securely and confidently. Join us in our pursuit to defend data and protect people.
How We Work:
At Proofpoint you’ll be part of a global team that breaks barriers to redefine cybersecurity guided by our BRAVE core values:
Bold in how we dream and innovate
Responsive to feedback, challenges and opportunities
Accountable for results and best in class outcomes
Visionary in future focused problem-solving
Exceptional in execution and impact
The Role
Proofpoint is looking for a Software Engineer II to join our Unified Detection team, working on building and deploying large-scale threat detection services. Our team employs cutting-edge technology to detect, analyze, and produce intelligence on the latest threats from sophisticated cyber threat actors. Our detection services are foundational components leveraged across Proofpoint's cybersecurity product offerings to protect customers from threats delivered through email, social media, and SaaS applications.
We are looking for an engineer who is developing their professional expertise, writes clean and well-tested code, and is eager to grow within a strong engineering culture. You understand the broader technical ecosystem, take ownership of smaller features and components, and collaborate effectively with your teammates to deliver high-quality work.
We are a fast-paced, high-energy team where you will have the opportunity to learn quickly, contribute meaningfully, and grow your skills alongside experienced engineers.
What you'll do
Contribute to moderately complex features and components, ensuring your work integrates seamlessly into the larger detection system.
Write clean, maintainable, and efficient code — leave the codebase better than you found it.
Begin taking ownership of smaller features or components, ensuring quality through thorough testing.
Work with minimal supervision on routine tasks, and proactively seek guidance when facing unfamiliar challenges.
Anticipate potential blockers, communicate risks early, and collaborate with the team to address them within established timelines.
Collaborate well with teammates — listen actively, incorporate feedback, and contribute constructively to reviews and discussions.
Actively participate in code reviews and retrospectives, providing constructive input and implementing feedback with a growth mindset.
What we're looking for
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Information Systems (or equivalent practical experience).
2+ years of experience developing software, with growing proficiency in Python, Go, or Java.
Experience with observability or monitoring tools (Grafana, Kibana, or similar), preferred
Developing understanding of distributed systems, cloud environments (AWS or similar), and containerized workloads (Kubernetes, Docker).
Familiarity with RESTful APIs, secure coding foundations, and automated testing practices.
Curiosity about cybersecurity, malware analysis, or threat detection is a bonus.
Why Proofpoint?
At Proofpoint, we believe that an exceptional career experience includes a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Here are just a few reasons you’ll love working with us:
Competitive compensation
Comprehensive benefits
Career success on your terms
Flexible work environment
Annual wellness and community outreach days
Always on recognition for your contributions
Global collaboration and networking opportunities
Our Culture:
Our culture is rooted in values that inspire belonging, empower purpose and drive success-every day, for everyone.
We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you need accommodation during the application or interview process, please reach out to accessibility@proofpoint.com.
How to Apply
Interested? Submit your application along with any supporting information- we can’t wait to hear from you!
How we rate this
Software Engineer III at Proofpoint rates 10 out of 100 for how much of the daily work is AI. That makes it Little AI (AI Level 1 of 4). The level is about AI in the job, not seniority.
Little AI. AI is not part of the work.
- ●●●● Builds AI80 to 100
- ●●●○ Works on AI60 to 79
- ●●○○ Uses AI40 to 59
- ●○○○ Little AI0 to 39
Levels come from how often the tools, models and workflows of the role are named in the posting itself. Open the description and count.
Prepare for this job
Built from this posting and from similar jobs on Level.
Skills and AI tools this role asks for
Also common in software engineer jobs at this level
Pay
- Typical software engineer job
- $168k
This posting doesn't list pay. Use the typical software engineer figure when pay comes up. See software engineer jobs
Questions you could be asked
- How do you decide when an AI agent can act on its own versus asking for approval first?
- Tell me about a project where cybersecurity was part of your work. What did you do?
- Tell me about a project where threat detection was part of your work. What did you do?
- Tell me about a project where backend development was part of your work. What did you do?
Adapt your resume
- List these exact terms on your resume: AI agents, Cybersecurity, Threat Detection, and Backend Development. An applicant tracking system matches the wording, not the idea.
- Attach one line of real, concrete experience to at least one of them. A tool named with nothing behind it rarely survives a human read.
Want an expert to read your CV for this job?
Free. Send your CV and the role you want next. We reply by email within 2 to 4 business days.
Get new software engineer jobs by email
One email a week with the new software engineer jobs, each rated for how much AI is in the work. No recruiter spam, unsubscribe in one click.
Free. One email a week. Unsubscribe in one click.
Similar roles
Software Engineering roles that involve little AI, at other companies.
What kind of AI work fits you?
Answer 12 practical questions in about three minutes. Get a simple profile, the work it points to, and live roles to explore next.
Find my next step