Senior Software Engineer (C/C++, Packet Processing, Linux Debugging)

The application window is expected to close on 2/28/25

Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

(Strong preference will be given to candidates located in Austin, TX)

Meet the Team

Join Cisco's Security Technology Group, where innovation meets network and content security. Our Team is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking security solutions that protect the world's digital infrastructure. As a member of our Datapath software team, you will have the opportunity to work on diverse projects related to Cisco Next Generation Firewall.

Role Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Software Engineer who is passionate about data path- Packet Processing software and eager to tackle complex challenges in network security. This is a unique opportunity to influence the design and development of next-generation security products that safeguard critical data and communications.

Your Impact

• Design, develop, and debug Datapath software component for Cisco's Next Generation Firewall.
• Take part in product development through complete SDLC stage.
• Work proactively with cross functional teams for requirement gatherings, turning them into Datapath solutions and delivering high quality products.
• Write design specs and test plans. Conduct and participate in peer code reviews, design reviews, and test plan reviews.
• Effective usage of generative AI tools.
• Working with Cisco TAC and Escalations to understand customer issues, debug them effectively and resolve in time and with high quality.
• Have thorough understanding and experience of C, OS concepts and Linux debugging internals. Datapath defects are often complicated to debug and require very thorough debugging skills and OS work experience.
• Thorough experience with Networking protocols - L2/L3/L4.
• Provide solutions for scaling Datapath software onto multi core systems with focus on parallel processing.
• Analyze and debug throughput packet performance and degradation and provide solutions.
• Actively participating in Cisco's Hackathon's competitions and providing meaningful ideas which can turn into revenue streams for Cisco Firewall and Security solutions.
• Providing secure software solutions is our basic principle. Hence, you must have a sharp attitude towards embedding security concepts in all our implementations.
• Communicate effectively across team, providing timely updates on project progress, challenges, and successes.
• Bring a mentality of developing simple solutions to complex problems.
• You would work with a team of highly motivated engineers across multiple sites in US and across the world.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors with 7+ years of experience OR Masters with 4+ years in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related major.
• Extensive Work experience with C or C++ language, OS and data structures.
• Thorough exposure in debugging with Linux commands.
• L2/L3/L4 protocol knowledge and work experience is a must.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Understanding of High Availability solutions.
• Experience with version control systems such as Git or Perforce and familiarity with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Familiarity or Hands on experience with Cisco or Other Vendor Security solutions.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with team members and partners.

#WeAreCisco

#WeAreCisco where every individual brings their unique skills and perspectives together to pursue our purpose of powering an inclusive future for all.

Our passion is connection-we celebrate our employees' diverse set of backgrounds and focus on unlocking potential. Cisconians often experience one company, many careers where learning and development are encouraged and supported at every stage. Our technology, tools, and culture pioneered hybrid work trends, allowing all to not only give their best, but be their best.

We understand our outstanding opportunity to bring communities together and at the heart of that is our people. One-third of Cisconians collaborate in our 30 employee resource organizations, called Inclusive Communities, to connect, foster belonging, learn to be informed allies, and make a difference. Dedicated paid time off to volunteer-80 hours each year-allows us to give back to causes we are passionate about, and nearly 86% do!

Our purpose, driven by our people, is what makes us the worldwide leader in technology that powers the internet. Helping our customers reimagine their applications, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals is what we do best. We ensure that every step we take is a step towards a more inclusive future for all. Take your next step and be you, with us!

#LI-RN1