Software Engineer

The Network Engineering group at Cisco is seeking a Software Engineer to help redefine how networking problems are solved. You will develop innovative software for next-generation networking platforms and create AI-powered systems that can reason about, troubleshoot, and resolve complex infrastructure challenges.

In this role, you will:

• Design, develop, and test software for high-impact networking platforms and distributed systems
• Collaborate with system architects and engineering teams to design scalable solutions that meet product requirements
• Build systems and applications using modern development practices and open-source technologies
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of complex software projects with an automation-first mindset
• Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize distributed systems to improve performance and reliability
• Support production environments and participate in resolving real-world operational challenges
• Work closely with geographically distributed engineering teams in a collaborative environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree + 7 years of related experience, or Master's + 4 years of related experience, or PhD + 1 year of related experience, or equivalent related work experience.
• Programming experience in C/C++ & Python required.
• Experience with Linux Kernel driver development required.
• Experience working with Linux systems, networking fundamentals, operating system concepts, and container-based applications.
• Experience using modern AI-assisted development tools such as Cursor, Codex, Claude Code, or Devin.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Sonic OS.
• Professional experience in Linux Systems/Linux Kernel Security.
• Understanding of concepts of Trusted Platform Modules, Secure Boot, HW Root of Trust.
• Understanding of networking fundamentals including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, routing protocols, and switching.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Cisco certifications such as CCNA or CCNP.

The starting salary range for this position is $167,700.00 to $245,200.00 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.