Cisco

Software Engineer Technical Leader - Network Data Plane - Hypershield

Cisco$210K — $305K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or higher degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field with extensive experience in software development.
  • Over 10 years of professional software development experience in C/C++ on Linux.
  • Strong knowledge of Layer 2, Layer 3, and various networking protocols for software development.
  • Proven experience in developing or optimizing high-performance packet processing applications using DPDK or similar technologies.
  • Solid background in designing and delivering production-quality systems software.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and optimize high-performance data plane software for Cisco Hypershield Smart Switches.
  • Develop networking software for DPU-based Smart Switch platforms, focusing on scalable packet processing and security features.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex software defects and networking issues, enhancing performance and reliability.
  • Lead technical design discussions and participate in architecture and code reviews within the engineering team.
  • Collaborate with various engineering teams to introduce innovative networking and security capabilities.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology in networking and security at Cisco.
  • Engagement in a hands-on, high-impact technical role.
  • Influence technical direction and mentor other engineers in the organization.
  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams to solve complex engineering challenges.
  • Dynamic work environment focused on innovation and growth.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 08/31/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Your Impact

As a Software Engineer Technical Leader, you'll play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing the data plane software powering Cisco Hypershield Smart Switches. This is a highly technical, hands-on individual contributor role where you'll spend the majority of your time writing production-quality code, solving complex networking problems, and influencing technical direction through engineering leadership.

You'll work across the full software development lifecycle-from technical design and implementation to debugging, performance optimization, code reviews, and customer issue resolution-while partnering closely with software, hardware, and security engineering teams.
In this role, you will:

  • Design, develop, and optimize high-performance data plane software using modern C/C++ on Linux-based systems.


  • Develop networking software for DPU-based Smart Switch platforms, enabling scalable packet processing and advanced security capabilities.


  • Troubleshoot complex software defects, networking issues, and customer-reported problems while improving performance, scalability, and reliability.


  • Lead technical design discussions, participate in architecture and code reviews, and provide technical mentorship across the engineering organization.


  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver innovative networking and security capabilities for Cisco Hypershield Smart Switches.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field and 12+ years of related experience, or Master's degree with 10+ years, or PhD with 7+ years of related experience.


  • 10+ years of professional software development experience using C or C++ in Linux environments.


  • Experience developing networking or data plane software with strong knowledge of Layer 2, Layer 3, and common networking protocols.


  • Experience developing or optimizing high-performance packet processing applications using DPDK, networking stacks, or similar technologies.


  • Experience designing, implementing, debugging, reviewing, and delivering production-quality systems software.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience developing software for Data Processing Units (DPUs), SmartNICs, network processors, or networking appliances.


  • Experience with P4 or other programmable data plane technologies.


  • Experience contributing to networking architecture, systems software design, or large-scale distributed networking solutions.


  • Experience working across cross-functional or geographically distributed engineering teams.


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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