Software Engineering Technical Leader – C/C++, Linux & Networking (L2/L3)

Meet the Team Welcome to the Data Center Business Unit at Cisco! We are passionate about shaping the future of networking by driving innovation across cutting-edge Ethernet Switching technologies. Our team is at the forefront of developing next-generation Ethernet Switching products that address the dynamic needs of modern network infrastructures, including AI, cloud computing, and enterprise environments. As part of our group, you will gain hands-on experience with core Ethernet technologies and have opportunities to design solutions for both public and private cloud infrastructures. Your Impact As a member of our team, you will: Dive deep into the complex and mission-critical infrastructure behind Cisco’s world-class, multi-layered Nexus switches. Engage in cross-functional collaboration, working alongside experts from innovation, marketing, hardware, and testing to deliver outstanding products. Be involved in every phase of software development lifecycle—from ideation and market research to product delivery. Collaborate and innovate with Distinguished and Principal Engineers, with a focus on scale, performance, and reliability. Design and develop system software for industry-leading Ethernet switch products. Build robust SDKs for next-generation, feature-rich network ASICs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Hardware, ASIC, Marketing, and Testing, to bring innovative products to market. Interact closely with experienced engineers and thought leaders to create solutions that set new standards for performance and reliability. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, with typically 10+ years of relevant experience. Strong proficiency in C/C++ and experience with network programming and protocols. Solid understanding of key networking technologies such as L2/L3, VXLAN, MPLS, ACL, and QoS. Eagerness to work collaboratively and contribute to building sophisticated Ethernet Switching solutions. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated understanding of operating systems and distributed systems. Hands-on experience in switch or router software development. Prior experience developing SDKs for custom or merchant ASICs is a strong plus Why Cisco? At Cisco, we’re revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era – and beyond. We’ve been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds. These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint. Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions. Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you’ll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless. We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale. Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere. We are Cisco, and our power starts with you. Cisconians power the future. We make impact as a team, innovating fast and fearlessly to create meaningful solutions on a large scale. The depth and breadth of our technology doesn't just benefit our customers – it also means limitless opportunities for us to experiment and learn. We understand the power each of our unique backgrounds bring when we work together. Because of that, we have a global network of thinkers, doers, experts, and curious creators who help one another do their life’s best work.