Embedded Systems Engineer: Low-Level Networking

Cisco Systems, Inc; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision insurance

401(k) plan with matching

Paid parental leave

Disability coverage

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc is seeking engineers with a strong foundation in low-level programming, embedded Linux, and networking. You’ll work on operating systems, firmware, and networking stacks to deliver secure, high-performance solutions for Cisco’s core products.

Collaboration with hardware and software teams is essential, with hands-on development and automation emphasized. The role emphasizes rigorous OS fundamentals, scripting, and CI/CD practices in a security-conscious, global engineering

Qualifications

• Meet one of the following (completed within the past 3 years or expected to be completed within the next 12 months).
• Qualifying education and work experience should be in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Proficiency in C programming and experience working in embedded Linux environments, including a solid understanding of operating system fundamentals.
• Working knowledge of core networking principles, routing protocols, and general network architecture concepts.
• Hands‑on experience developing automation scripts (e.g., Python or Bash), utilizing CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions), and applying DevSecOps practices within software workflows.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain critical software and tools that ensure hardware compatibility, network performance, and security for Cisco’s core products like operating systems, firmware, and networking stacks.
• Contribute to the development and integration of operating system components in embedded environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable networking solutions.
• Prototype, test, and optimize hardware-software interfaces and security features.

Skills

C programming

Embedded Linux

Networking principles

Automation scripting

CI/CD pipelines

DevSecOps practices

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science / Software Engineering / Computer Engineering or related field

Education/workforce program (Associate’s, Apprenticeship, Boot camp, Certification) with 1 year experience

High school diploma with 2 years of work experience

Tools

Jenkins

GitHub Actions

Job description

Cisco Systems, Inc is seeking engineers with a strong foundation in low-level programming, embedded Linux, and networking. You’ll work on operating systems, firmware, and networking stacks to deliver secure, high-performance solutions for Cisco’s core products.

Collaboration with hardware and software teams is essential, with hands-on development and automation emphasized. The role emphasizes rigorous OS fundamentals, scripting, and CI/CD practices in a security-conscious, global engineering