Software Engineer - Data Path Networking

Cisco Systems; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading technology company as a Software Engineer, where you'll work on developing enterprise-grade switches crucial for large-scale networks. With a collaborative and inclusive environment, you'll develop innovative solutions while mentoring junior engineers. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in software engineering, particularly in C/C++, as well as a solid understanding of networking protocols.

Benefits

Dedicated paid time off to volunteer—80 hours each year.

Opportunities for learning and professional development.

Supportive and inclusive community through employee resource organizations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree + 5 years related experience, or Master's + 3 years, or PhD + 1 year.
• Experience with network security protocols preferred.
• Hands-on experience with ASIC data plane features.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate products for global enterprises.
• Architect, design, and mentor junior engineers.
• Collaborate in cross-functional teams within an agile environment.

Skills

Writing software in C/C++

Knowledge of TCP/IP fundamentals

Experience with real-time OS

Network synchronization knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering

Master’s degree

PhD in technical equivalent

Tools

Linux

Unix

Job description

The application window is expected to close on: June 30, 2025

Meet the Team

Join Cisco's team of seasoned engineers working on Switching technology, the preferred choice for mission-critical networks in large enterprises. Collaborate with a vibrant technical community to develop some of the world’s most widely deployed Enterprise Switches.

Your Impact

As a Software Engineer, you will have the opportunity to:

• Develop and integrate products used by leading global enterprises.
• Architect, design, and develop evolving enterprise switches.
• Mentor junior colleagues and contribute to their growth.
• Work with cross-functional teams in an inclusive and agile environment.
• Engage with cutting-edge technologies and platforms.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree+ 5 years of related experience, or Masters + 3 years, or PhD + 1 year experience in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or technical equivalent.
• Experience in writing software in C/C++
• Experience with real-time OS (e.g., VxWorks, Cisco IOS, Linux).
• Knowledge of TCP/IP fundamentals, multicast protocols, and network synchronization.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of network security protocols (IEEE 802.1x, IPSec, etc.).
• Experience with QoS, Netflow, and Openflow, L3 protocols
• Understanding of bridging and routing fundamentals.
• Hands-on experience with ASIC data plane features.
• Familiarity with Unix/Linux development tools and Linux virtualization.

#WeAreCisco

#WeAreCisco where every individual brings their unique skills and perspectives together to pursue our purpose of powering an inclusive future for all.

Our passion is connection—we celebrate our employees’ diverse set of backgrounds and focus on unlocking potential. Cisconians often experience one company, many careers where learning and development are encouraged and supported at every stage. Our technology, tools, and culture pioneered hybrid work trends, allowing all to not only give their best, but be their best.

We understand our outstanding opportunity to bring communities together and at the heart of that is our people. One-third of Cisconians collaborate in our 30 employee resource organizations, called Inclusive Communities, to connect, foster belonging, learn to be informed allies, and make a difference. Dedicated paid time off to volunteer—80 hours each year—allows us to give back to causes we are passionate about, and nearly 86% do!

Our purpose, driven by our people, is what makes us the worldwide leader in technology that powers the internet. Helping our customers reimagine their applications, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals is what we do best. We ensure that every step we take is a step towards a more inclusive future for all. Take your next step and be you, with us!