Cisco

Software Engineering Technical Leader

Cisco • $186K — $267K *
Technical Services
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 8 years of experience, or Master's with 6 years, or PhD with 3 years in a related field.
  • 5+ years of programming experience in C/C++.
  • 3+ years using Python for automated test suite development.
  • 3+ years of experience with Linux operating systems.
  • Familiarity with debugging tools (GDB, PDB) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

  • Build and deliver data plane and control plane software.
  • Develop 'forwarding' and 'services' data plane feature sets.
  • Code in C++ and Python for clean, maintainable software.
  • Engage in design and testing of data-center features for Cisco 8000 Platform.
  • Participate in agile team collaboration during feature definition and development.

Benefits

  • Opportunities to work on large-scale distributed systems.
  • Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in AI/ML.
  • Flexible work environment and agile development cadence.
  • Collaboration with open-source communities.
  • Professional growth through engaging projects and responsibilities.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/26/2026
Meet the Team:

The Cisco Distributed System Engineering (DSE) group owns the development of products that power the world's largest networks, driving the industry's transformation to support the growing demands of AI/ML workloads and increasing internet usage. By using open-source technologies and advancing Systems and Silicon Architecture, the team builds large-scale distributed systems, collaborates with open-source communities, and delivers end-to-end product development and production support in a fast-paced environment.

Your Impact:

As a Networking Engineer, you'll join an agile team engaged in the design, development and testing data-center features set in Cisco 8000 Platform using SONiC network operating system. In this role you'll have chance to define, develop and learn about many feature sets such as L2/L3 forwarding, ACLs, QoS, Mirroring, etc.
  • Building and delivering data plane and control plane software
  • Developing 'forwarding' and 'services' data plane feature sets
  • Coding in C++ and Python to produce clean, maintainable code


Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelors + 8 years of related experience, or Masters + 6 years of related experience, or PhD + 3 years of related experience.
  • 5+ years of programming experience in C/C++
  • 3+ years of experience using Python to build automated test suites for kernel module validation, including experience with frameworks like Pytest
  • 3+ years of experience with Linux


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of Linux Kernel
  • Knowledge of Open Standard Networking Systems and APIs: SONiC, SAI, etc.
  • Knowledge of Networking protocols such as TCP/IP, BGP, VxLAN, EVPN, ACLs
  • Experience using debugging tools such as GDB, PDB
  • Understanding of tools such as GIT, Jira, Jenkins and CI/CD pipeline tools


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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