Cisco

Software Engineering Technical Leader- Forwarding (L2/L3)

Cisco$183K — $263K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's in a STEM field with 8+ years of experience in software development
  • Experience in C/C++ programming in a Linux environment
  • Familiarity with network programming and protocols like BGP or OSPF
  • Knowledge of L2, L3, ACL, QoS, or Telemetry

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop system software for Data Center products using Silicon One-based ASICs
  • Create features for AI/ML applications and deployments
  • Develop SDK for next-gen feature-rich network ASICs
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams for market-ready products
  • Innovate alongside experienced engineers, focusing on scale, performance, and reliability

Benefits

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with Cisco matching contribution
  • Paid parental leave
  • Short and long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible vacation time off program
  • Paid time off for employee's birthday and wellness days
  • Optional paid days for volunteering
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 06/05/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

This is a hybrid role, located in San Jose, CA and requires being in the office 3 days a week.

Your Impact

In this role, you will spearhead the development of advanced Ethernet Switching solutions, directly contributing to the improvement of modern network infrastructures. Your work will focus on designing and implementing system software that boosts the performance, scalability, and reliability of Cisco's Nexus switches. By engaging with cross-functional teams, you will facilitate seamless product integration and ensure successful market delivery. Your expertise will empower businesses to achieve digital excellence and transform their operations, ultimately shaping the future of networking technology.
  • Design and develop system software for Data Center products based on Silicon One based ASICs.
  • Develop features targeted for AI/ML use cases and deployments.
  • Develop SDK for next-generation feature-rich network ASIC.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to take developed products to market.
  • Innovate through close collaboration with distinguished engineers, focusing on scale, performance, and reliability.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's in a STEM field with 8+ years of experience in software development
  • Experience in C/C++ programming in Linux environment
  • Experience with network programming and protocols, such as BGP or OSPF, and knowledge of L2, L3, ACL, QoS, or Telemetry

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in SDK development for network ASICs
  • Experience switch/router software development
  • Experience with operating systems and distributed systems
  • Experience using Linux in Networking Environment
  • Experience with Python scripting


Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada:

The starting salary range posted for this position is $183,800.00 to $263,600.00 and reflects the projected salary range for new hires in this position in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including incentive compensation*, equity, or benefits.

Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location, market conditions, job-related skillset, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, and/or training. The full salary range for certain locations is listed below. For locations not listed below, the recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees are offered benefits, subject to Cisco's plan eligibility rules, which include medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability coverage, and basic life insurance. Please see the Cisco careers site to discover more benefits and perks. Employees may be eligible to receive grants of Cisco restricted stock units, which vest following continued employment with Cisco for defined periods of time.

U.S. employees are eligible for paid time away as described below, subject to Cisco's policies:
  • 10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees
  • 1 paid day off for employee's birthday, paid year-end holiday shutdown, and 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco
  • Non-exempt employees** receive 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees
  • Exempt employees participate in Cisco's flexible vacation time off program, which has no defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use (subject to availability and some business limitations)
  • 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next
  • Additional paid time away may be requested to deal with critical or emergency issues for family members
  • Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer


For non-sales roles, employees are also eligible to earn annual bonuses subject to Cisco's policies.

Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components, subject to the applicable Cisco plan. For quota-based incentive pay, Cisco typically pays as follows:
  • .75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;
  • 1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;
  • 1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%; and
  • Once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.


For non-quota-based sales performance elements such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may pay 0% up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.

The applicable full salary ranges for this position, by specific state, are listed below:

New York City Metro Area:
$183,800.00 - $303,100.00

Non-Metro New York state & Washington state:
$163,600.00 - $269,800.00

* For quota-based sales roles on Cisco's sales plan, the ranges provided in this posting include base pay and sales target incentive compensation combined.

** Employees in Illinois, whether exempt or non-exempt, will participate in a unique time off program to meet local requirements.

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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Cisco

More Telecommunications & Hardware Jobs

Find similar Software Engineering Technical Leader- Forwarding (L2/L3) jobs: