Security Software Engineer

About the role

Tailscale is seeking a security-focused software engineer to join our product security team. You will contribute to enhancing the safety and privacy of our platform by developing new features and addressing vulnerabilities. This role requires strong analytical skills, the ability to work effectively with technical colleagues, and comfort with asynchronous communication.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Enhance Tailscale's security and privacy by designing and implementing new features and fixes across the codebase.
• Evaluate Tailscale features for security weaknesses, propose solutions, and guide their implementation.
• Support engineering decisions through threat modeling and security analysis.
• Dedicate at least half of your work time to software development.

Requirements

• Experience writing software in at least one programming language, such as Go.
• Experience developing for at least one application platform, including iOS, Android, web, Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• Previous experience in a security-focused technical role, such as application security, penetration testing, threat modeling, user experience security, or incident response.
• Strong understanding of common web application vulnerabilities (e.g., OWASP Top 10), client-side security, and API security issues.
• Ability to work with engineering teams to promote secure coding practices and provide guidance.
• Familiarity with cryptographic principles and common networking protocols.

Nice to have

• Experience with user experience design or research related to security.

Skills & tools

• Go (preferred)
• iOS, Android, Web, Windows, macOS, Linux
• OWASP Top 10
• Threat modeling
• Cryptography
• Networking protocols

Practical notes

• Salary range: $163,000 - $226,000 USD
• Tailscale offers equity and comprehensive benefits.
• The company is remote-first.
• Professional development budget of $1500 USD annually.
• Home office setup support including a company laptop and internet reimbursement.
• Paid parental leave.
• Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates.
• AI-assisted tools are used in the hiring process, but all hiring decisions are made by people.
• Official Tailscale communications will come from @tailscale.com, @greenhouse.io, or @interviews.modernloop.io email addresses.