Hardware Engineer (hybrid) - 2011668

Cisco•San Jose, CA

2d•$135,800 - $222,400•Hybrid

About The Position

Cisco Systems is seeking a System Level Test Engineer to validate and ensure the quality of next-generation networking platforms, including switches, routers, and data center systems. In this role, you will drive end-to-end system validation across hardware, firmware, and software stacks, ensuring robust performance, scalability, and reliability under real-world and stress conditions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
4+ years of experience in system validation, networking test, or hardware/software integration
Strong knowledge of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing, switching)
Experience with Linux systems and debugging tools
Programming/scripting experience (Python, C/C++, or similar)
Hands-on experience with system-level debugging and validation

Nice To Haves

Experience with data center networking (leaf-spine, VXLAN, EVPN)
Familiarity with high-speed interfaces (Ethernet 25G/100G/400G, PCIe)
Experience testing network operating systems (NX-OS, IOS-XR, or similar)
Knowledge of traffic generators (Ixia, Spirent) and network test tools
Experience with automation frameworks and large-scale testbeds
Background in ASIC bring-up or platform validation

Responsibilities

Define and execute system-level validation strategies for complex networking platforms
Validate end-to-end functionality across hardware, OS, and networking software stacks
Perform feature, regression, interoperability, and scale testing
Develop automated test frameworks using Python, C/C++, or similar languages
Build scalable validation environments for high-throughput networking systems
Integrate tests into CI/CD pipelines for continuous validation
Design and execute tests for throughput, latency, packet loss, and scale limits
Validate system behavior under high traffic loads and real-world network conditions
Analyze system performance across L2/L3 protocols and data center workloads
Debug complex issues spanning ASICs, firmware, drivers, and network OS
Perform root cause analysis using logs, traces, and lab instrumentation
Collaborate with design and software teams to resolve issues efficiently
Partner with ASIC, hardware design, software, and architecture teams
Influence design decisions by identifying system-level risks early
Work with customers and field teams to reproduce and resolve issues

Benefits

medical, dental and vision insurance
a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution
paid parental leave
short and long-term disability coverage
basic life insurance
10 paid holidays per full calendar year
1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees
1 paid day off for employee’s birthday
paid year-end holiday shutdown
4 paid days off for personal wellness
16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year (non-exempt employees)
flexible vacation time off program (exempt employees)
80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter
up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next
Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer
annual bonuses (for non-sales roles)
performance-based incentive pay (for sales roles)