Software Engineer: C/C++/Python & Layer 2 (L2), Layer 3 (L3), VXLAN | 5 to 9yrs| Bangalore

Cisco Systems, Inc; Bengaluru; On-site; INR 1,500,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc. in Bengaluru seeks a Software Engineer to design and develop advanced networking features focused on ultra-low latency forwarding and AI-enabled workflows. You will work on Linux-based embedded software for high-performance network devices and contribute across the software stack.

The role emphasizes hands-on development, problem solving, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable solutions in the data center AI infrastructure space.

Qualifications

• Masters or Bachelors in ECE/CS with 4+ years in networking software development.
• Strong hands-on experience delivering large-scale embedded system control and data plane technologies.
• Experience with L2/L3, VXLAN, PTP, and ULL networking concepts.
• Proficient in Python and ability to develop scalable software.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test C/C++ on Linux for high-performance network devices.
• Embedded software development with strong troubleshooting skills.
• Develop and optimize port complex control plane, Layer2/Layer3, and PTP software for Silicon One platforms.
• Champion AI/ML integration into platform workflows to boost efficiency and reduce delivery barriers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of software modules.

Skills

C/C++ development

Embedded software

Linux proficiency

Networking tech (L2/L3, VXLAN)

Python

AI/ML integration

Education

Masters/Bachelor in ECE/CS

Tools

Linux

Job description

Meet the Team:

The Cisco Data Center Networking (DCN) Engineering group leads innovation in building products that power the world’s largest networks. As the networking industry evolves and modernize to meet the needs of the modern Artificial Intelligence and Edge Computing workloads our team is uniquely positioned to drive this transformation.

We work closely with large Hyperscale and Enterprise customers to meet their AI/ML networks solutions by building Cisco’s next generation Silicon One Asics based Nexus 9000 series Network platforms with innovative NX-OS based software solutions.

Joining our team means working on transformative ideas that are shaping the future of Data center AI infrastructure. You’ll collaborate with industry leaders, contribute to innovative advancements in Data Center networking solutions, and drive revolutionary progress in the field. We value our customers and thrive on teamwork.
Come prepared to grow, be inspired, and make a difference. Together, we are redefining what’s possible in the world of AI datacenter infrastructure routers and switches.

Your Impact:

As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking features with emphasis in the Ultra-Low Latency(ULL)forwarding layer 1-3 services and HPT solutions. With the foundational capabilities of our next‑generation platforms already established, this role offers a true ground‑floor opportunity to drive the next phase of product growth. You will help shape our convergence strategy in the Hyperscaler data center space and deliver high‑impact features powering Web, Cloud, Data Center networking solutions.

• Design, implement, and test C, C++, with Linux based operating systems to develop highly scalable software systems on high‑performance network devices.
• Hands‑on embedded software development with excellent trouble shooting skills
• Build, optimize, and enhance the Port complex control plane, Layer2, Layer3 and PTP software’s leverage the capabilities of Cisco’s advanced Silicon One networking hardware/ASICs.
• Champion AI/ML integration into the platform workflow, utilizing your demonstrated hands‑on experience to design solutions that boost efficiency and remove delivery barriers
• Collaborate closely with cross functional team lead engineers to ensure seamless development and integration of software modules to deliver high‑quality solutions.
• Proactively identifies and participates in the resolution of sophisticated problems that impact the direction of the business.
• Develops and delivers innovative approaches that benefit customers and/or clients.
• Contributes to the development of annual organizational objectives/priorities.
• Builds and maintains long‑term relationships with key stakeholders to ensure products and services reflect the needs and direction of the business.

Minimum Qualifications

• Masters/Bachelors ECE/CS with 4+ years of related experience in networking software development
• Strong understanding and Hands‑on development experience delivering large‑scale embedded system control and data plane technologies, including L2/L3 networking and VXLAN‑based EVPN fabrics using C/C++ as development language on a Linux based OS on networking switches and routers. Candidates must demonstrate deep technical fluency—beyond to provide architectural oversight and design guidance
• Experience with Layer 2 (L2), Layer 3 (L3), VXLAN, PTP and ULL networking technologies, protocols, and data‑plane behaviors.
• Experience inPythonwith the ability to develop scalable, maintainable, and production‑ready software solutions.
• AI Proficiency:Demonstrated hands‑on experience building and integrating AI/ML solutions into software workflows, including a clear understanding of the associated risks

Preferred Qualifications

• Communication & Influence: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to synthesize complex technical updates.
• Experience with Nexus 9000 series networking platform is a 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.