Cisco

Senior Software Engineer

Cisco$165K — $241K *
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree and 7+ years or Master's degree and 4+ years or PhD and 1+ year in CS, EE, or related field.
  • Proficiency in C/C++/Python and strong grasp of data structures and algorithms.
  • Experience in embedded systems development and Linux OS programming.
  • Familiarity with platform infrastructure and optics software development.

Responsibilities

  • Develop software adhering to Cisco's Design Thinking Principles.
  • Implement CMIS/SFF compliant management frameworks for pluggable optics.
  • Contribute to datapath and control-plane integration software for NPUs and ASICs.
  • Create and integrate Linux-based embedded software with distributed network operating systems.
  • Build infrastructure for telemetry, diagnostics, fault management, and automation in Python.
  • Lead development of medium-scope features from conception to completion.
  • Mentor team members through code reviews and technical guidance.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model requiring at least 3 days in-office per week.
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge networking and AI infrastructure projects.
  • Access to cross-functional collaboration for product innovation.
  • Possibility for career growth through mentorship and knowledge sharing.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 06/29/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

***We are looking for candidates local to Milpitas as this is a hybrid role requiring at least 3 days in the office each week***

Meet the Team

Develop software consistent with Cisco 'Design Thinking Principles' with a focus on simplification and customer experience at its core, using secure coding practices following software development best practices. Partners with cross-functional teams to create the right solution for our customers. Creates technical design documentation for the team as well as contributing to user documentation for end users. Debugs and addresses software issues during development and in production systems to support customers. Brings new ideas for product innovation and helps improve software development processes.

You will join our next-generation networking and AI infrastructure team, contributing to the design and development of scalable software systems for high-speed networking platforms, coherent optical transceivers, PHY devices, and next-generation NPU-based systems. You will work at the intersection of optics and its standards, silicon photonics, ASIC/NPU datapath, Linux embedded software and distributed network operating systems.

Your Impact
  • Experienced professional using best practices and knowledge of internal or external business issues to improve products or services. Works independently with minimal guidance
  • Implement CMIS / SFF compliant management frameworks for pluggable optics
  • Develop datapath and control-plane integration software for NPUs and ASICs, and contribute to software for co-packaged optics, silicon photonics, coherent DSP-based optics, and 800G / 1.6T systems
  • Develop Linux-based embedded software and integrate optics / PHY functionality with distributed network operating systems
  • Build telemetry, diagnostics, and fault-management infrastructure, develop automation and validation infrastructure in Python
  • Lead medium-scope features from technical design through completion
  • Contribute to a defined software engineering roadmap, identify and recommend improvements to the software development lifecycle and agile engineering best practices
  • Write functional clean code and unit tests with no guidance. Maintain and enhance solutions by fixing complicated errors, raising risks, and escalating issues where necessary
  • Shares knowledge across teams, both informally and formally (e.g., ad-hoc basis, internal presentations, blogs, newsletters)
  • Coordinates across teams to estimate times and complete projects according to specification and user requirements
  • Tracks milestones, progress and provides ongoing updates and remediation plans to cross-functional partners
  • Mentors and assists other team members through code reviews, documentation and technical guidance


Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree and 7+ years, Master's degree and 4+ years, or PhD and 1+ years of experience with a degree in CS, EE, or related field
  • Experience in C/C++/Python, Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Experience with embedded systems development and Linux OS programming experience
  • Experience with Platform Infrastructure and Optics software Development


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience of coherent optics (ZR/ZR+), PHY / SerDes, FEC, ASIC / NPU, and DSP-based systems
  • Familiarity with CMIS and / or SFF standards
  • Experience with IOS-XR, SONiC, FBOSS, or similar NOS platforms
  • Experience with AI networking infrastructure
  • Knowledge of optical line systems and coherent transport technologies


About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
Learn more about Cisco
Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
NASDAQ

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