Embedded Software Engineer – (C/C++,Python,NPU)

Meet the Team You will join the Mass-Scale Infrastructure Group (MIG) Platform Forwarding team, responsible for the high-performance data plane software powering Cisco IOS XR platforms. We build and optimize forwarding systems that run on Cisco Silicon One (SiOne) Network Processing Units (NPUs), enabling the world’s largest service provider networks. Our work sits at the hardware/software boundary, translating networking protocols into efficient NPU data plane implementations. We are modernizing embedded development using AI-assisted engineering practices to improve speed, quality, and scalability. Your Impact As a Software Engineer – NPU Data Plane & Forwarding, you will design and implement high-performance forwarding features for carrier-grade routers. You will: Develop Data Plane Features: Design and implement Layer 2 (EVPN, VPLS) and Layer 3 (SRv6, Segment Routing, MPLS, IPv4/v6) forwarding capabilities. Program NPUs: Translate protocol requirements into optimized NPU logic, including microcode and SDK integrations. Build Tunneling & Control Features: Implement and enhance TE-Tunnels, GRE, BFD, BGP Flowspec, ACLs, and slow-path handling. Optimize Performance: Profile and tune packet processing paths to meet strict latency and throughput targets. Debug Complex Systems: Perform deep troubleshooting across hardware and software layers using logs, core dumps, and packet traces. Embrace Modern Engineering Practices: Contribute to CI/CD workflows, structured code reviews, and leverage AI/LLM tools for code generation, testing, and analysis. This role is ideal for engineers experienced in embedded systems, high-speed packet processing, and carrier-grade routing platforms. Minimum Qualifications BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field. 6–10 years of experience in embedded software development for networking products. Strong programming expertise in C/C++ ; working knowledge of Python for automation and tooling. Experience with NPU-based data plane architectures (e.g., Broadcom DNX, Silicon One, ezChip), including pipeline design and table management. Strong understanding of Layer 2 and Layer 3 forwarding protocols (EVPN, VPLS, SRv6, Segment Routing, MPLS, IPv4/v6). Experience implementing features such as TE-Tunnels, GRE, BFD, BGP Flowspec, ACLs, or similar forwarding mechanisms. Proven debugging experience in carrier-grade network operating systems. Familiarity with Git-based workflows and CI/CD environments. Understanding of service provider network deployments (Core, Edge, Peering). Preferred Qualifications Hands-on experience with P4 or similar NPU programming languages. Experience working with carrier-grade network operating systems, especially Cisco IOS XR . Exposure to AI-assisted development tools (e.g., Copilot, AI-driven log analysis). Experience optimizing high-throughput, low-latency packet processing systems. Strong grasp of hardware–software interaction and memory management in embedded environments. 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.