Senior Software Engineer | C Programming and Routing Protocols | 5 to 9 Years

Meet the Team

Cisco’s Distributed Systems Engineering (DSE) team builds the foundational software that powers the world’s largest, most demanding data centers. The PI-Common team is at the core if this, as we build the routing protocols and infra, that are the heart of data centers. As AI/ML workloads explode and cloud-scale infrastructure becomes the norm, the industry is transforming—and Cisco is leading the way.

Our NX-OS operating system, running on industry-leading Cisco Nexus switches, delivers the performance, programmability, and reliability needed for modern data center networks. At DSE, we combine open-source innovation, deep systems engineering, and hardware-software co-design to build platforms that scale globally and evolve rapidly.

We’re looking for passionate engineers who thrive on solving complex problems, building distributed systems, and working hands-on with real-world infrastructure.

Your Impact

You’ll be part of a high-performing team driving innovation across Cisco’s data center portfolio, which includes Nexus 9000 series switches, NX-OS, and technologies like Routing Protocols, Routing Infra, Virtualization, VXLAN EVPN, segment routing, and telemetry. You’ll engage closely with senior engineers, architects, and open-source communities, influencing product direction and technical strategy.

Minimum Qualifications

• B.E./B.Tech in Computer Science, ECE, or a related field
• 5–9 years of software development experience
• Strong proficiency in C programming in multi-threaded, embedded environments
• In-depth understanding of routing protocols such as OSPF, ISIS, and BGP
• Solid grasp of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, multicast, switching, forwarding)
• Experience working with or developing for NX-OS or similar network operating systems
• Strong understanding of OS internals, IPC, memory management, and HA systems
• Familiarity with YANG, SNMP, or model-driven telemetry
• Experience in scripting with Python
• Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to data center protocols such as Routing, VXLAN, EVPN, or segment routing
• Exposure to open-source tools, network automation, or configuration frameworks
• Prior experience building infrastructure at scale
  
  

Why Cisco

At Cisco, we don’t just build products—we build the internet . Nearly every data packet in the world touches Cisco hardware or software. Our data center platforms serve as the backbone for hyperscalers, enterprises, and mission-critical services globally.

We combine the stability of a global brand with a culture of innovation . You’ll work on meaningful technology, grow with the best minds in the industry, and help create the next wave of networking solutions— AI-ready, cloud-native, and highly programmable .

We support individuality, diversity, and continuous learning. And yes, we give back—every Cisco employee gets dedicated days each year for community impact.

Ready to engineer the future? Apply now and join the PI-Common team at Cisco DSE.