Software Development Engineer II (Full Time) – United States
Cisco · Durham, NC
- On site
- Full-time
- $123,600 / year
- Durham, NC
Job highlights
- Develop next-gen secure routers for global businesses.
- Work across low-level drivers to AI-driven features.
- Integrate hardware and software for new platforms.
- Utilize AI-assisted coding tools and modern workflows.
- Collaborate cross-functionally on routing stack development.
About the role
Software Development Engineer II
The Cisco Enterprise Routing team is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of platforms that connect businesses globally. They ensure secure and efficient data movement across various network environments, from simple emails to high-bandwidth video conferencing and cloud applications.
We are looking for a skilled Software Development Engineer to join our team focused on developing Cisco’s next-generation Secure Routers. This role involves development across multiple software layers, including low-level drivers, advanced networking protocols, high-performance packet forwarding, modern cryptography, AI-driven features, modern CPU architecture, and system optimizations for scale and performance.
Your Impact
- Design and deliver features across the routing stack, ensuring scalability, reliability, and security.
- Integrate hardware and software by bringing up new platforms.
- Debug complex issues across various software layers.
- Utilize modern development workflows, including AI-assisted coding tools and VSCode.
- Write clean, maintainable code with unit tests, perform code reviews, and contribute to secure coding practices.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, product, and test teams.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree + 2 years of relevant experience, OR Master's degree + 0 years of relevant experience.
- Relevant fields: Computer Science/Computer Engineering.
- Foundational C/C++ programming skills.
- Strong software development debugging skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with AI-assisted development tools (Copilot, Claude, Codex). Development is integrated with AI tools for code development, review, bug triaging, unit-test plan generation, and documentation.
- Understanding of Operating Systems and OSI Model layers.
Key skills/competency
- Software Development Engineer
- C/C++
- Networking Protocols
- Embedded Systems
- Debugging
- System Optimization
- AI-assisted Development
- Secure Coding
- Operating Systems
- Hardware Integration
Skills & topics
- Software Development Engineer
- Cisco
- C++
- Networking
- Routers
- Embedded Systems
- AI Development
- System Optimization
- Full Time
- Engineering
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight C/C++ skills, debugging experience, and any AI development tool usage relevant to Cisco's Software Development Engineer II role.
- Showcase relevant projects: Emphasize experience with networking protocols, operating systems, and system optimization in your application.
- Prepare for technical interviews: Brush up on C/C++ fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, and common networking concepts.
- Demonstrate collaborative spirit: Be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively with cross-functional teams in previous roles.
- Understand Cisco's mission: Research Cisco's role in the AI era and how secure routing contributes to their innovation.
Technical preparation
Master C/C++ and data structures.,Practice debugging complex software issues.,Study networking protocols and OSI model.,Familiarize with AI coding tools.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex debugging challenge.,How do you ensure code quality?,Discuss cross-functional collaboration experience.,How do you adapt to new technologies?
Frequently asked questions
- What is the typical career progression for a Software Development Engineer II at Cisco?
- At Cisco, Software Development Engineer II roles often lead to more senior engineering positions, such as Senior Software Development Engineer, or specialized roles in areas like architecture or team leadership. Your career path will depend on your performance, interests, and the needs of the business, with opportunities for growth in technical expertise and project responsibility.
- How does Cisco utilize AI in its software development process for this role?
- Cisco integrates AI-assisted development tools like Copilot, Claude, and Codex throughout the software lifecycle. This includes code development, code review, bug triaging, generating unit test plans, and documentation, aiming to enhance efficiency and quality for Software Development Engineer positions.
- What specific networking protocols are important for a Software Development Engineer at Cisco?
- For the Software Development Engineer role at Cisco, understanding fundamental networking protocols is key. While the job description highlights 'advanced networking protocols,' familiarity with core concepts like TCP/IP, routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF), and the OSI model is crucial for success in developing enterprise routing solutions.
- Can I apply for this Software Development Engineer II position if I am still pursuing my Master's degree?
- The minimum qualifications state 'Masters + 0 years of relevant experience.' This suggests that while a Master's degree is acceptable, you would typically need to have completed it. However, Cisco often considers candidates with relevant internship or project experience that substitutes for formal experience, so it's worth applying if you meet other criteria.
- What is Cisco's approach to employee growth and development for Software Engineers?
- Cisco emphasizes continuous learning and development. For Software Engineers, this includes opportunities for training, access to cutting-edge technologies, participation in challenging projects, and mentorship programs. The company fosters an environment where employees can grow their skills and advance their careers within the organization.
- How does Cisco ensure security in its software development for router platforms?
- Security is a core focus at Cisco. For this Software Development Engineer II role, you'll contribute to secure coding practices, work with modern cryptographic security features, and help ensure the integrity of data and network infrastructure. This involves rigorous testing, code reviews, and adherence to security best practices throughout the development lifecycle.