Software Engineer Embedded/Network Systems I (Full Time) - United States

About the role

Join our dedicated team members who are engineering the foundation of Cisco’s core technologies globally. You will contribute to the development of next-generation innovations in operating systems, firmware, networking stacks, and security infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain critical software and tools ensuring hardware compatibility, network performance, and security for Cisco’s core products.
• Manage time and streamline processes to deliver high-quality solutions that embed resilience and efficiency into global communications infrastructure.
• Solve complex challenges through innovation and precision, leveraging your skills in low-level programming, networking protocols, and hardware-software integration.

Requirements

• Completion within the past 3 years, or current enrollment with expected completion within 12 months, of a certification or relevant degree program (e.g., Associate’s, Apprenticeship, Boot Camp, or Certification in a specialized program + 1 year of relevant experience, High School Diploma + 2 years of relevant experience).
• Proficiency in C programming and experience with embedded Linux, including a solid understanding of operating system fundamentals.
• Familiarity with network principles & concepts, routing protocols, and general networking concepts.
• Hands-on experience with automation tools and scripting languages (such as Python or Bash), along with knowledge of CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions).
• Understanding of DevSecOps practices and their application in software development workflows.

Preferred Qualifications

• Conceptual understanding or hands-on experience with AI/ML.
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles and security protocols.
• Experience with FPGA development.
• Knowledge of signal and power integrity, and PCB design.

Benefits

At Cisco, you'll find a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• A 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution
• Paid parental leave
• Short and long-term disability coverage
• Basic life insurance

Additionally, U.S. employees may receive:

• Up to 10 paid holidays per full calendar year
• One floating holiday for non-exempt employees
• One paid day off for employee's birthday
• A year-end holiday shutdown
• Four paid days off for personal wellness
• Up to 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accruing at a rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees
• A flexible vacation time off program for exempt employees
• Up to 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next
• Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer

For quota-based sales roles, Cisco typically pays as follows:

• .75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;
• 1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;
• 1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%;
• Once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.

Employees in Illinois, whether exempt or non-exempt, will participate in a unique time off program to meet local requirements.