Software Engineering Technical Leader- Networking

The application window is expected to close on: 08/23/2026 Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received . Technical Leader - BGP Routing Protocols Meet the Team As a core part of the Distributed Systems Engineering group, we design, build, and optimize the routing software that powers the world’s most critical data center, service provider and enterprise networks. Our team delivers platform-independent routing software that runs across the Cisco 8000, ASR 9000, and 5500 series of routers, as well as virtual platforms. We architect and develop cutting edge solutions for hyperscale/neo cloud customers and service providers, addressing emerging demands in critical technologies including segment routing, SRv6, EVPN, VxLAN etc. that are the building blocks for modern AI infrastructure. We are a global, collaborative force with a presence in San Jose, India, Ottawa, and Europe, united by a passion for high-performance, scalable and multithreaded systems.

As a Tech Lead, you will be the bridge between complex architectural vision and high-quality software delivery. •    Architect and deliver innovative and scalable BGP/routing solutions for complex customer requirements and internal initiatives, tailored to meet the extreme demands of modern web-scale infrastructure. •    Lead discussions with customers, account teams and product management to understand complex customer deployments and use-cases and define engineering requirements. •    Champion the integration of AI-driven coding tools to accelerate development cycles and enhance software quality. •    Collaborate across adjacent software teams to define robust programming interfaces. •    Review design and code, setting the standard for quality excellence. Contribute to troubleshooting and bug fixes across the stack. •    Contribute to and develop new networking standards, in collaboration with peers in Cisco and vendors and partners.   Minimum Qualifications • Bachelor’s + 8 years, Master’s + 6 years, or PhD + 3 years of related experience in software engineering. • System Architecture and software development experience in the networking domain. • Strong proficiency in C/C++/Go with a focus on systems programming   Preferred Qualifications •  Knowledge of Routing Technologies, BGP, OSPF, ISIS, MPLS protocols •  Understanding of concepts of segment routing, SRv6, traffic engineering and  datacenter technologies like VxLAN. •  Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting/debugging skills. •  Experience in manageability frameworks such as YANG/SNMP/XML. •  Familiarity with Unix/Linux. Experience using RTOS (ex: QNX, VxWorks) •  Practical experience in or deep familiarity with AI-assisted coding  tools (e.g. Cursor, GitHub Copilot, Claude Code). 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.  Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada: The starting salary range posted for this position is $186,900.00 to $267,700.00 and reflects the projected salary range for new hires in this position in