Staff Software Engineer, Networking Software Systems

Qualcomm • Santa Clara, CA

3d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Staff Software Engineer to lead the development of next-generation Networking and Wireless solutions. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of hands-on experience in embedded software and networking, with a proven track record of architecting high-performance data path solutions and driving technical innovation.

Requirements

• Core Technical Skills: Expert proficiency in C and C++ programming. Deep understanding of Linux Kernel internals (memory management, interrupt handling, locking mechanisms) and embedded system constraints.
• Networking Domain: Comprehensive mastery of TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, switching, routing, and tunneling protocols. Hands-on experience with HW/SW data path offloading techniques and Ethernet driver development.
• Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to debug complex system-level issues involving race conditions, memory leaks, and performance bottlenecks in a multi-core environment.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex architectural concepts to stakeholders and lead technical discussions.
• Team Player: Ability to lead technical initiatives in a fast-paced environment and work effectively as part of a high-caliber international/multi-site team.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• 2+ years of work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.

Responsibilities

• Networking Architecture & Design: Architect, design, and lead the implementation of complex packet processing systems. Define strategies for HW and SW datapath acceleration to ensure wire-speed performance and low latency.
• Linux Kernel Networking: Deep dive into Linux kernel networking subsystems. Develop and optimize kernel modules, Ethernet drivers, and PHY drivers. Customize and enhance the Linux networking stack (Netfilter, bridging, routing, QoS) for high-throughput embedded systems.
• Advanced Protocol Engineering: Design and implement robust support for various network tunneling protocols (e.g., GRE, L2TP, IPsec, VxLAN, MAP-T/E, CAPWAP). Ensure interoperability and performance across diverse network topologies.
• System Integration & Interfaces: Architect efficient user space to kernel space communication interfaces (e.g. Netlink, ioctl, sysfs) and integrate complex networking features such as Open vSwitch (OVS) or eBPF/XDP into the networking ecosystem.
• Technical Leadership: Serve as a technical lead for the team. Drive architectural decisions, conduct code reviews, and define best practices for software development and testing.
• Collaboration: Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including HW architects, System Test, and customer support, to define requirements and commercialize networking features for global carrier and enterprise customers.
• Mentorship: Mentor Senior and Junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, continuous learning, and innovation.

Benefits

• We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level