Software Engineer - Forwarding Technologies and Programming NPUs

Cisco Systems • Milpitas, CA

118d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Cisco Distributed System Engineering (DSE) group is at the forefront of developing products that power the largest networks in the world. The networking industry is going through a massive transformation to build the next generation infrastructure to meet the needs of AI/ML workloads and continuously increasing internet users and applications. We are uniquely positioned to capture that market transition. This team builds products by harnessing the potential of open-source technologies while pushing the boundaries on Systems and Silicon Architecture. We are looking for developers and leaders who are passionate about tackling complex technology, building large scale distributed systems and comfortable working with open-source communities and technologies. You will be part of a fast-paced work environment and responsible for end-to-end product development and production support.

Requirements

• Bachelors +7 years of related experience OR Masters +4 years of related experience.
• Experience in designing, implementing, or optimizing software solutions for Layer 3 forwarding, including routing protocols, packet forwarding and related network functionalities.
• C and/or C++ and Python experience on Linux.
• Debugging experience with GDB or similar tools.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with Linux and modern software tools and techniques for development/debugging and validated software design and development skills.
• Service provider, data center technologies and architectures.
• Deep understanding of networking protocols and different L2/L3 to L7 technologies.
• VMs and virtualization technologies.
• Automation experience with Python, Tcl, REST, Jenkins.
• SDLC and AGILE development methodologies experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, automate, and execute new hardware or features across complex Network Architectures using C/C++ language.
• Define and qualify end to end / solution architectures, engage in debugging complex network problems and define solutions.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of Cisco IOS XR software.
• Play a vital role in the innovation and improvement of software solutions for AI/ML, hyperscalers, and service providers.
• Take ownership of tasks and features with the ability to quickly acquire new skills.
• Address innovative challenges and resolve complex technical problems.
• Work closely with fellow engineers to deliver new functionalities and enhancements to customers.
• Collaborate with tools like Microsoft Copilot and Cisco's internal AI/ML solutions to drive development efficiency.
• Develop new features for the software or design fully automated tests.
• Investigate and troubleshoot issues to ensure reliable and effective solutions.
• Utilize test tools to maintain high-quality standards and ensure the software meets rigorous benchmarks.
• Gain hands-on experience with various areas of network technologies, such as Programmability and Routing Infrastructure.
• Enhance the experience and satisfaction of customers by delivering robust, high-quality software solutions.

Benefits

• Quality medical, dental and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution.
• Short and long-term disability coverage.
• Basic life insurance.
• Numerous wellbeing offerings.
• Up to twelve paid holidays per calendar year.
• Flexible Vacation Time Off policy for exempt new hires.
• Sick Time Off policy with 80 hours provided on hire date.
• Paid time away to deal with critical or emergency issues.
• Additional paid time to volunteer and give back to the community.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees