Software Engineer
Cisco
Posted 15 Nov 2026, 06:53 ET
This job at a glance
- Who can apply
- New grads, no experience needed · Bachelor's degree
- Must know
- NetworkingSystem designMachine learningTroubleshootingAgilePython
- Nice to have
- Linux
- Work
- On-site in Milpitas
- Pay
- Not stated by the employer.
- Skill demand
- Troubleshooting38%System design15%Machine learning13%Networking11%of 149 similar entry-level jobs posted in the US this week
- Listed
- Nov 15, 2026 · still open
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Company: Cisco
About the Role
Join the Cisco 8000 Layer 3 Forwarding team, part of Cisco’s Distributed Systems Engineering (DSE) organization. Develop IOS XR software that powers packet forwarding on Cisco Silicon One networking ASICs. Build scalable, high-performance routing platforms for service providers and hyperscale networks, supporting cloud infrastructure and AI/ML workloads. Work at the intersection of routing software and networking hardware, collaborating with control plane, ASIC, and SDK engineering teams. Contribute across the full development lifecycle, from design and implementation to validation and production troubleshooting.
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the development and enhancement of Cisco IOS XR software.
- Innovate and improve software solutions for AI/ML, hyperscalers, and service providers.
- Take ownership of tasks and features, acquiring new skills quickly.
- Address innovative challenges and resolve complex technical problems.
- Collaborate with engineers to deliver new functionalities and enhancements.
- Utilize tools like Microsoft Copilot and Cisco's internal AI/ML solutions to drive development efficiency.
- Develop new features or design fully automated tests.
- Investigate and troubleshoot issues to ensure reliable and effective solutions.
- Utilize test tools to maintain high-quality standards.
- Gain hands-on experience with network technologies such as Programmability and Routing Infrastructure.
- Build expertise in cutting-edge network technology.
- Enhance customer experience by delivering robust, high-quality software solutions.
- Ensure continuous improvement and innovation of Cisco IOS XR software.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Experience in all phases of SW development cycle with exposure to agile development methodologies.
- Programming experience in C, C++, or Python.
- Development experience with Network routing protocols.
- Experience using AI tools to improve engineering productivity.
Qualifications
- Bachelors + 5 years of related experience OR Masters + 3 years of related experience OR PhD +0 years of related experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with Linux and modern software tools like GDB, VTune, Valgrind, Perf.
- Deep understanding of L2/L3 to L7 technologies like OSPF, ISIS, BGP, BFD, MPLS.
- Familiarity with VMs and virtualization technologies.
- Automation experience with Python, Tcl, REST, Jenkins.