Cisco

Software Engineering Technical Leader - Networking

Cisco$186K — $267K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in CS/EE or related field; Master's degree preferred
  • 8+ years of software development experience
  • 5+ years in a formal management or team lead role
  • 8+ years in C, C++, or Python programming
  • 5+ years working with L2/L3 networking protocols like BGP, OSPF, and MPLS
  • Experience with debugging tools like GDB or PDB
  • Proficiency in algorithms and data structures for software optimization

Responsibilities

  • Influence the design of next-gen ASIC products with a focus on software solutions
  • Develop scalable control and data plane software to meet AI/ML networking needs
  • Manage the full software development process, from requirements to implementation
  • Collaborate with architecture, hardware, and software teams on application design
  • Utilize C++, Python, and specialized network languages to create efficient software
  • Foster a mentorship culture through technical guidance and code reviews
  • Deliver clean, user-friendly APIs for robust application interfaces

Benefits

  • Collaborative team environment prioritizing ownership and mentorship
  • Opportunities for technical impact in future ASIC designs
  • Involvement in cutting-edge AI/ML and networking infrastructure projects
  • Engagement in a culture emphasizing rigorous technical standards
  • Exposure to cross-functional collaboration with top engineers in the field
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 06/30/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Your Impact

The Silicon One Customer Engineering team serves as the technical bridge between Cisco's high-performance silicon and real-world network deployments. By translating complex customer requirements into optimized software for the Silicon One NPU, the team directly influences the scalability and efficiency of modern AI/ML and internet infrastructure. This role is central to the product lifecycle, as engineers collaborate with architecture and hardware teams to ensure that software features align with the evolving demands of high-density, low-latency systems.

The team is a high-caliber group of software engineers and technical leads who prioritize ownership, mentorship, and technical rigor. The environment is collaborative and focused on solving complex challenges in control and data plane development using C++ and Python. What makes this team unique is the opportunity to influence the design of future ASIC generations while maintaining full ownership of the software development process, from initial requirements to final implementation.
  • Direct Impact: Influence the development of next-generation ASIC products by bridging the gap between hardware architecture and software programming models.
  • Technical Scope: Develop and maintain scalable control and data plane software for the Silicon One NPU, specifically addressing AI/ML and high-density networking demands.
  • Full Lifecycle Ownership: Manage the software development process from initial customer requirement gathering and feature scoping through to final implementation and delivery.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with internal architecture, hardware, and software teams to design innovative applications and software customizations.
  • Skill Application: Utilize modern C++, Python, and specialized network processing languages to build high-performance, low-latency software layers.
  • Mentorship Culture: Engage in a team environment that emphasizes technical guidance, code reviews, and the development of clean, user-friendly APIs.


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in CS/EE or a related technical field with 8+ years of software development experience, OR a Master's degree with 6+ years of related experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in a formal people management or team lead role for software engineering teams.
  • 8+ years of professional experience developing software using C, C++, or Python.
  • 5+ years professional experience implementing L2/L3 networking protocols, specifically BGP, OSPF, and MPLS.
  • Experience identifying and resolving software defects using debugging tools including GDB or PDB.
  • Experience applying algorithms and data structures to develop and optimize software in a production environment.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with SONiC, SAI or another Network OS.
  • Experience with NPU/ASIC software architecture, design, and development, including the application of SDKs in networking systems.
  • Prior work with large-scale software systems and distributed computing.
  • Experience leading projects that involve complex system integration and customization.
  • Experience in working with hardware teams, quality assurance, and customer support to deliver end-to-end solutions.

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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