Senior Channel Sales Engineer (Distribution & Public Sector)

About UsProofpoint 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 WorkAt Proofpoint you’ll be part of a global team that breaks barriers to redefine cybersecurity guided by our BRAVE core valuesBold in how we dream and innovateResponsive to feedback, challenges and opportunitiesAccountable for results and best in class outcomesVisionary in future focused problem-solvingExceptional in execution and impactChannel Sales Engineer – Distribution & Public SectorThe RoleProofpoint is looking for a Channel Sales Engineer to lead and scale our impact across distribution partners and the public sector ecosystem in the U.S.This role is centered on enabling large-scale distribution models and supporting partners that serve federal, state, local government, and education (SLED) customers. You will operate as a technical leader across a layered partner landscape—working with distributors, resellers, and public sector specialists to expand Proofpoint’s reach and effectiveness.You’ll help define how Proofpoint is positioned, sold, and delivered into the public sector through distribution. From shaping partner strategy to influencing complex, compliance-driven opportunities, your work will directly impact growth in one of our most critical markets.If you enjoy building partner capability at scale, navigating public sector environments, and driving technical success through indirect channels, this role is for you.Location U.S. (remote)Travel Required for partner and customer engagementWhat You’ll DoOwn the technical relationship with key distributors and public sector-focused channel partners Drive technical engagement across federal, state, local, and education opportunities Support and influence complex deals involving public sector requirements, compliance, and procurement frameworks Enable distributors to scale Proofpoint by training and supporting their downstream reseller ecosystem Build and execute a technical enablement strategy tailored to public sector use cases Partner with resellers to confidently position, demo, and deliver Proofpoint solutions in regulated environments Act as a trusted advisor to distribution leadership, partner engineers, and public sector sales teams Lead architecture discussions and guide solution design aligned with government security standards and frameworks Support proof-of-concept engagements and evaluations within public sector constraints Help partners develop repeatable offerings and services for government and education customers Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Channel, Customer Success, and Threat Research to align on public sector strategy Navigate competitive positioning within public sector buying cycles and contract vehicles Drive a high standard of partner and customer experience across a multi-tier distribution model What You Bring7+ years in Sales Engineering or technical pre-sales, ideally in cybersecurity Strong experience working with distribution partners and/or public sector customers (federal or SLED) Understanding of public sector procurement, compliance frameworks, and sales cycles Experience supporting or enabling multi-tier channel ecosystems (distributor → reseller → customer) Background in email security, data protection, or related security technologies Familiarity with government security requirements and frameworks (e.g., FedRAMP, NIST, CJIS, etc.) Solid understanding of messaging systems (Exchange, SMTP) Familiarity with directory services and integrations (LDAP, Active Directory) Working knowledge of networking fundamentals and protocols Strong communication skills—comfortable engaging both technical practitioners and executive stakeholders Ability to operate independently and drive outcomes in a complex, matrixed environment A builder mindset with a focus on scaling impact through partners 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 usCompetitive compensationComprehensive benefitsCareer success on your termsFlexible work environmentAnnual wellness and community outreach daysAlways on recognition for your contributionsGlobal collaboration and networking opportunitiesOur 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 ApplyInterested? Submit your application along with any supporting information- we can’t wait to hear from you!