Cisco

Software Engineering Technical Leader

Cisco$186K — $267K *
Information Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field + 8 years of experience, or Master's + 6 years, or PhD + 3 years; equivalent related work experience also accepted.
  • 5+ years of experience in software engineering with modern programming languages (Python, Go, C++, or Java).
  • 4+ years in enterprise/datacenter networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, EVPN, VXLAN) and network simulation platforms (Cisco Modeling Labs, EVE-NG, GNS3).
  • 3+ years with cloud-native infrastructure, distributed systems architecture, and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
  • 3+ years integrating and automating network controllers and SDN platforms using REST APIs/SDKs.

Responsibilities

  • Architect secure, high-fidelity network topologies and establish data contracts for AI training data.
  • Lead automation and integration of Cisco controllers across various environments (on-premises, cloud).
  • Design, build, and test high-performance distributed software with engineering standards in mind.
  • Apply zero-trust principles and threat modeling to secure platforms and data pipelines.
  • Implement telemetry for simulation performance and drive root-cause analyses for improvements.
  • Mentor peers and communicate engineering roadmap and technical trade-offs.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model with flexibility to work remotely and in-office.
  • Opportunities for mentorship and professional growth through peer design reviews.
  • Access to cutting-edge technologies and resources in AI and networking.
  • Collaboration across diverse engineering teams and disciplines.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 10/04/2026
This is a hybrid role based out of Cisco's Seattle or San Jose office.

Your Impact

As a Lead Software Engineer , you will build secure, cloud-native networking and simulation platforms that power Cisco's domain-specific LLMs. Partnering across AI research, security, product, and infrastructure engineering, you will architect simulation topologies, automate controller ecosystems, and translate cutting-edge AI and networking concepts into robust, production-grade capabilities.

  • Architect high-fidelity, secure network topologies using Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) and establish data contracts and validation pipelines to ensure provenance and integrity for AI training and evaluation data.
  • Lead the secure automation and integration of Cisco controllers (Nexus Dashboard, Catalyst Center, Intersight, Cisco HyperFabric) across on-premises, hybrid, and cloud-native environments.
  • Design, build, and test high-performance distributed software, setting engineering standards for network programmability, cloud architecture, and simulation-driven workflows.
  • Apply zero-trust principles, threat modeling, RBAC/IAM, and secrets management to secure controller integrations, simulation platforms, and data pipelines.
  • Implement telemetry and monitoring for simulation performance and cloud infrastructure, driving postmortems and root-cause analyses into preventive platform controls.
  • Mentor peers through design reviews and knowledge sharing, shape the engineering roadmap, and communicate technical trade-offs to cross-functional stakeholders.


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field + 8 years of related experience, OR Master's degree in STEM + 6 years of related experience, OR PhD in STEM + 3 years of related experience (or equivalent related work experience).
  • 5+ years of professional software engineering experience designing, developing, and testing production-grade software using modern programming languages (e.g., Python, Go, C++, or Java).
  • 4+ years of professional experience in enterprise/datacenter networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, BGP, EVPN, VXLAN) and network simulation/modeling platforms (e.g., Cisco Modeling Labs [CML], EVE-NG, or GNS3).
  • 3+ years of experience with cloud-native infrastructure, distributed systems architecture, and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
  • 3+ years of experience integrating and automating network controllers, SDN platforms, or infrastructure management systems via REST APIs/SDKs (e.g., Nexus Dashboard, Catalyst Center, Intersight).
  • 2+ years of experience implementing secure software development lifecycle (SSDLC) practices, including threat modeling, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), and secrets management.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Proven experience developing, securing, and validating high-fidelity simulation models within Cisco Modeling Labs (CML).
  • Demonstrated expertise managing and automating Cisco controller environments, including Nexus Dashboard, Catalyst Center, Intersight, Secure Firewall Management Center, and Cisco HyperFabric.
  • Strong understanding of data-contract design, schema evolution, data provenance, and automated validation methodologies for large-scale modeling, AI training, and evaluation environments.
  • Experience designing and operating cloud-native systems using containers, Kubernetes, infrastructure as code, CI/CD pipelines, APIs, distributed data services, and modern observability platforms.
  • Practical knowledge of application and infrastructure security, including secure software supply chains, vulnerability management, identity and access management, threat modeling, encryption, secrets management, and security automation.
  • Demonstrated record of technical innovation through rapid prototyping, applied research, invention disclosures, patents, open-source contributions, technical publications, or the successful incubation of new capabilities.

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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