# Systems Engineer, Network Protocols & Distributed Systems

**Company:** [Cloudflare](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/cloudflare)
**Location:** Austin, TX, Lisbon, Portugal, London, United Kingdom
**Role:** Backend Engineering
**Salary:** €54k – €75k/yr
**Skills:** Rust, C, Http, Tls, Nginx, Proxy Systems, Distributed Systems, Systems Programming, Open Source, Network Protocols
**Posted:** 2026-09-09

> Build and operate Internet-scale HTTP and TLS infrastructure, migrate services to a Rust-based proxy, and improve protocol performance. The role requires systems programming experience, strong reliability and security practices, and interest in open-source standards.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Build and operate systems that terminate HTTP and TLS at Internet scale.
- Migrate core infrastructure from NGINX to a next-generation Rust-based proxy.
- Measure and improve protocol performance across real-world traffic.
- Contribute to open source and industry standards.

## Requirements
- Solid systems programming experience with Rust, C, or similar languages.
- Ability to work effectively in complex technical domains and learn new concepts.
- Commitment to building reliable, secure, and performant software.
- Motivation to deliver technical, operational, and Internet-wide impact.

## Compensation and Benefits
- Portugal-based hires: estimated annual salary of €54,000–€75,000.
- Equity plan eligibility, including RSUs.
- Employee stock participation plan and ESPP.
- Flexible work hours and paid time off.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Flexible spending and commuter spending accounts.
- Fertility and family-forming benefits.
- Mental health support and employee assistance program.
- Global travel medical insurance.
- Disability and life insurance.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan.
- Leave programs, including parental, pregnancy health, medical, and bereavement leave.

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**Canonical:** https://hotfix.jobs/jobs/19f9e6a4-33f0-4534-9be2-be9b1cbd40b3