Senior Sales Engineer - Data Security

About the role

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 and the Team At Proofpoint, the members of our Sales Engineering team are highly valued business partners that play a critical role in our sales process every single day. As a Senior Sales Engineer in the fast-growing Data Security Group (DSG) you will be one of the most important members of the Proofpoint sales team. You will become a trusted advisor to both the Specialist Account Manager you are paired with, as well as our current and future customers. As a subject matter expert focused on Data Security and Insider Risk, you will help to deliver People-Centric solutions. Candidates for this role should be located in California. Your day-to-day The Senior Sales Engineer is the Technical Lead for the Proofpoint Pre-Sales process, including: Drive high levels of customer satisfaction Collaborate with the ATG Sales Specialists & Account Teams to develop and execute targeted account penetration strategies Build trust and rapport with customers and prospects in person, and be their main technical point of contact throughout the process Work closely with customers/prospects for technical discovery, as well as planning, execution and wrap up of Proof-of-Concept (POC) and Production Evaluations You will design and champion complex People-Centric Security solutions encompassing the Data Security portfolio, including a full Data Loss Prevention suite (email, endpoint, cloud and web), Insider Risk and Data Security Posture Management You may, occasionally, be called upon to assist in professional services deployments, technical training and to present at or attend industry seminars and/or trade shows Work collaboratively with other groups, including Professional Services, Support, Engineering, and Product Management, to ensure the effective operation of the team, achieve technical win, and ensure ongoing customer satisfaction Provide valuable customer insight and real-world experiences to Product Management, Marketing, and Product Development (Engineering) teams to help keep our solutions the best in the industry Develop and deliver training presentations to peers, account managers, and other teams within Proofpoint Contribute across all corporate communication channels, write and help upkeep internal documentation and training Help develop solutions to common challenges and establish processes within the team, broader group, and across the sales engineering organization Job Requirements: Minimum 5+ years of proven track record and experience selling solutions as a Sales Engineer and/or related areas; ideally in the Data Security and Insider Risk areas Good understanding of the Cybersecurity market landscape and competition, ideally in the Data Security and Insider Risk areas Expertise in one or more core security solutions and technologies, such as Enterprise DLP, CASB, Insider Threat Management, Endpoint Security, Isolation, and DSPM Must have a good understanding of the sales process and the roles and responsibilities of a sales engineer Strong technical presentation and communication skills, both verbal and written Ability to see and present "the Big Picture," uncover business challenges, and architect a solution to solve customer business issues Must be able to thrive in a fast-paced, high energy environment Ability to work independently, adapt quickly, and maintain a positive attitude Bachelor's or advanced degree in a relevant field, or equivalent experience CISSP or similar industry certification preferred Travel Required in this role 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 enco