Software Developer Embedded Systems II

Meet the Team

Our dedicated team members are building the future of Cisco’s core networking platforms, operating systems, and intelligent embedded infrastructure, powering global connectivity. You will join engineering teams focused on developing high-performance routing and switching architectures, low-latency telemetry, and hardware-software integration within business groups such as Cisco Networking, Security & Trust, and Supply Chain. As part of this collaborative environment, you will contribute to the evolution of next-generation distributed platforms and mission-critical network systems. Explore the opportunities at the intersection of embedded software, networking protocols, and silicon systems, helping to transform how Cisco delivers resilient, high-speed digital experiences worldwide.

Your Impact

As an Embedded Systems Software Developer Co-op, you will play a key role in advancing the architecture, scalability, and performance of Cisco’s core networking systems and platforms. You will partner with senior engineers and domain experts to tackle complex technical challenges, optimize system-level workflows, and build resilient solutions for next-generation platforms. Apply your training and problem-solving skills to evaluate architectural trade-offs, implement robust software components, and improve overall system efficiency. Success in this role means driving meaningful technical outcomes, contributing to high-impact projects, and helping build scalable technologies that connect enterprises and service providers worldwide.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a graduate degree program
• Qualifying education should be in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in C or C++ systems programming
• Solid understanding of operating systems internals (kernel space vs. user space, memory) and networking protocol architectures (L2/L3, TCP/IP).
• Practical experience developing in Linux environments, utilizing debugging tools (GDB, Valgrind) and Git version control.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Linux kernel programming, RTOS, embedded device drivers, or packet processing datapaths (e.g., DPDK, XDP, eBPF).
• Knowledge of advanced routing protocols (BGP, IS-IS, Segment Routing, MPLS) or network telemetry and performance measurement architectures.
• Proficiency in Python or Bash for developing automated regression suites, continuous integration pipelines (Jenkins), and performance profiling.
• Exposure to hardware interfaces (PCIe, I2C, SPI), FPGA development, or embedded security protocols (DevSecOps, secure boot).

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.

Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada:

Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location, market conditions, job-related skillset, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, and/or training. The full salary range for certain locations is listed below. For locations not listed below, the recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees are offered benefits, subject to Cisco’s plan eligibility rules, which include medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability coverage, and basic life insurance. Please see the Cisco careers site to discover more benefits and perks. Employees may be eligible to receive grants of Cisco restricted stock units, which vest following continued employment with Cisco for defined periods of time.

U.S. employees are eligible for paid time away as describe