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Cisco Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cisco

Principal Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$222K - $295K/yr

Meet the Team You will join Cisco's Platform & Identity Engineering Group, a foundational group ... Innovate, develop, and drive unique software and technology solutions with global impact across ...

Cisco

Principal Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$222K - $295K/yr

Meet the Team You will join Cisco's Platform & Identity Engineering Group, a foundational group ... Innovate, develop, and drive unique software and technology solutions with global impact across ...

New

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$152K - $219K/yr

In this role, you'll develop and optimize firmware, SDKs, simulators, and compilers for Cisco ... Your impact As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$152K - $219K/yr

In this role, you'll develop and optimize firmware, SDKs, simulators, and compilers for Cisco ... Your impact As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$165K - $241K/yr

In this role, you'll develop and optimize firmware, SDKs, simulators, and compilers for Cisco ... Your impact As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$165K - $241K/yr

In this role, you'll develop and optimize firmware, SDKs, simulators, and compilers for Cisco ... Your impact As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking ...

CDW

Cisco Call Manager Engineer, TS/SCI

DC · Remote

The engineer monitors the organization's networks and connections, playing an active role in the ... Software Upgrades: Assist and lead the design and implementation of Cisco Unified Communication ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Durham, NC

Work closely with hardware engineers, architects, and multi-functional teams to define software ... At Cisco, we're revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in ...

Cisco

Principal Software Engineer

San Jose, CA

$158K - $212K/yr

Work closely with Cisco Silicon Customers to understand their needs and deliver features and ... software engineering teams. * 8+ years of professional experience developing software using C, C ...

Cisco

Principal Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$158K - $212K/yr

Work closely with Cisco Silicon Customers to understand their needs and deliver features and ... software engineering teams. * 8+ years of professional experience developing software using C, C ...

Cisco Systems, Inc.

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$165K - $241K/yr

In this role, you'll develop and optimize firmware, SDKs, simulators, and compilers for Cisco ... Your impact As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking ...

Cisco Systems, Inc.

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$152K - $219K/yr

In this role, you'll develop and optimize firmware, SDKs, simulators, and compilers for Cisco ... Your impact As a Software Engineer, you will design and develop a broad set of advanced networking ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · Hybrid

$165K - $241K/yr

Meet the Team The Cisco Distributed System Engineering (DSE) group is at the forefront of building ... Develop and improve software modules within SONiC to support optical subsystems, including ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$165K - $241K/yr

Meet the Team The Cisco Distributed System Engineering (DSE) group is at the forefront of building ... Develop and improve software modules within SONiC to support optical subsystems, including ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$165K - $241K/yr

The Cisco Distributed System Engineering (DSE) group owns the development of products that power the world's largest networks, driving the industry's transformation to support the growing demands of ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$165K - $241K/yr

The Cisco Distributed System Engineering (DSE) group owns the development of products that power the world's largest networks, driving the industry's transformation to support the growing demands of ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

San Jose, CA

The Cisco Silicon One team develops breakthrough silicon products. We enable the use of these ... You will be working very closely with internal engineering teams including Software, Hardware, and ...

Cisco

Software Engineer

San Jose, CA

The Cisco Silicon One team develops breakthrough silicon products.? We enable the use of these ... You will be working very closely with internal engineering teams including Software, Hardware, and ...

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All JobsCisco Software Engineer Jobs

Cisco Software Engineer information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do cisco software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cisco software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it difficult to get a job at Cisco?

Getting a job as a Cisco Software Engineer can be competitive, often requiring relevant technical skills, certifications like CCNA or CCNP, and experience with networking and software development. The hiring process typically involves multiple interviews and technical assessments, but candidates with strong qualifications and relevant experience have good chances of success.

How does a Cisco Software Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the development lifecycle?

As a Cisco Software Engineer, you'll regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams such as product management, quality assurance, and network engineers. This collaboration often occurs through agile ceremonies, design reviews, and code walkthroughs, ensuring software aligns with both technical requirements and customer needs. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll be expected to contribute to solution design, resolve integration challenges, and support end-to-end product delivery. Engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cisco Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cisco Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, programming (especially in languages like Python, C/C++, or Java), and networking fundamentals, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with Cisco development platforms, APIs, network protocols, and certifications such as CCNA or CCNP is highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help engineers collaborate effectively and address complex technical challenges. These skills enable the development of robust, scalable solutions that meet Cisco's high standards for innovation and reliability.

What does a Cisco Software Engineer do?

A Cisco Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software solutions that power Cisco’s products and services, such as networking hardware, cloud-based solutions, and security systems. They work closely with other engineers, product managers, and stakeholders to create innovative technologies that enable secure and efficient communication networks. Their daily tasks may include coding, debugging, participating in code reviews, and collaborating on large-scale software projects. Cisco Software Engineers often use programming languages like C, C++, Java, and Python, and contribute to both internal tools and customer-facing applications.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior Cisco Software Engineer with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can earn around $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or at large technology companies. Such roles often require expertise in network infrastructure, software development, and security, along with leadership responsibilities and long hours.

What is the difference between Cisco Software Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectCisco Software EngineerNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, Cisco DevNetCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentSoftware development, coding, testingNetwork setup, troubleshooting, infrastructure
Industry UsageNetworking software, applications, automationNetwork infrastructure, hardware, connectivity

While both roles involve Cisco technologies, a Cisco Software Engineer focuses on developing and maintaining software solutions, whereas a Network Engineer manages network infrastructure and hardware. Both roles often require similar certifications and work within the networking industry, but their daily tasks and skill sets differ significantly.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Cisco Software Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as CCIE can potentially earn salaries of $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or senior roles. Entry-level or mid-level engineers typically earn less, and total compensation may include bonuses and stock options. Achieving this salary often requires advanced expertise in networking, security, or cloud technologies, along with a strong professional track record.

How much does Cisco pay software engineers?

Cisco software engineers typically earn an average salary ranging from $100,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Entry-level positions may start lower, while senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and stock options.
More about Cisco Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Cisco Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Cisco Software Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Cisco Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Cisco Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cisco Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cisco Software Engineer jobs are:
Cisco Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cisco Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

Cisco

Boston, MA • On-site, Remote

$222K - $295K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Cisco Systems rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

The application window is expected to close on: 06/29/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.
Meet the Team
You will join Cisco's Platform & Identity Engineering Group, a foundational group responsible for building and scaling the core platform services that power Cisco's products and experiences. The team focuses on delivering secure, scalable platform capabilities that enable consistent management of security products across Cisco's portfolio.
This organization partners closely with engineering, security, and product teams across multiple technology and business groups to provide the underlying systems that support Cisco's innovation. The work spans cloud, security, and platform infrastructure, with an emphasis on reliability, interoperability, and long-term scalability.
Your Impact
  • Innovate, develop, and drive unique software and technology solutions with global impact across Cisco's broader product portfolio and multiple technology and business groups.
  • Act as an internal, external, and industry expert, applying deep technical expertise to provide guidance and consultation on complex challenges.
  • Serve as a domain expert or cross-domain integrator, leveraging breadth of knowledge to connect emerging technology trends and assess their impact on Cisco products.
  • Guide and set standards for the technical direction of Cisco's software and technology solutions, influencing industry trends, business leaders, and Cisco's technical community.
  • Ensure the development, execution, and enablement of technology strategies that deliver long-term business impact.
  • Stay ahead of evolving technology and industry trends, shaping innovation and enabling Cisco to maintain a strong competitive advantage.
  • Partner across engineering, product, and business teams to translate strategic vision into scalable, high-impact solutions.
  • Mentor and influence senior technical leaders, driving architectural consistency and engineering excellence across the organization.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 12+ years of experience designing and developing large-scale software, platform, or distributed systems.
  • Experience building and scaling highly available, secure, and distributed systems in cloud or hybrid environments.
  • Experience writing high-quality, production-grade code using modern programming languages (e.g., Go, Rust, or C++).
  • 5+ years of experience with security, privacy, and data protection principles as applied to platform and identity systems.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
  • Recognized technical leadership as a domain expert or cross-domain integrator influencing architecture across multiple product lines or business units.
  • Experience driving platform strategy in large-scale enterprise or cloud environments.
  • Experience integrating systems with broader platform services such as observability, data platforms, or AI/ML-driven systems.
  • Track record of influencing technical direction and aligning stakeholders across a large, matrixed organization.
  • Experience defining technical architecture and driving end-to-end system design across multiple teams or organizations.
  • Contributions to industry standards, open-source projects, patents, or publications.
  • Ability to translate emerging technology trends into long-term strategic direction and business impact.

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:
The starting salary range posted for this position is $222,900.00 to $295,200.00 and reflects the projected salary range for new hires in this position in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including incentive compensation*, equity, or benefits.
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 described below, subject to Cisco's policies:
  • 10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees
  • 1 paid day off for employee's birthday, paid year-end holiday shutdown, and 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco
  • Non-exempt employees** receive 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees
  • Exempt employees participate in Cisco's flexible vacation time off program, which has no defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use (subject to availability and some business limitations)
  • 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next
  • Additional paid time away may be requested to deal with critical or emergency issues for family members
  • Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer

For non-sales roles, employees are also eligible to earn annual bonuses subject to Cisco's policies.
Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components, subject to the applicable Cisco plan. For quota-based incentive pay, Cisco typically pays as follows:
  • .75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;
  • 1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;
  • 1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%; and
  • Once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.

For non-quota-based sales performance elements such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may pay 0% up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.
The applicable full salary ranges for this position, by specific state, are listed below:
New York City Metro Area:
$231,400.00 - $381,600.00
Non-Metro New York state & Washington state:
$222,900.00 - $343,600.00
* For quota-based sales roles on Cisco's sales plan, the ranges provided in this posting include base pay and sales target incentive compensation combined.
** Employees in Illinois, whether exempt or non-exempt, will participate in a unique time off program to meet local requirements.

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About Cisco Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cisco Systems, a global tech titan based in San Jose, CA, US, operates in the information technology and services industry. Founded in 1984, the company was derived from a project between two computer scientists from Stanford University. They aimed to connect different networks of computer systems at the university, resulting in the first multi-protocol router, and subsequently, the birth of Cisco. As an industry-leading manufacturer of networking hardware and telecommunications equipment, Cisco's product and services range includes routers, switches, firewall devices, and telecommunication technology. The company's mission, "to shape the future of the Internet by creating unprecedented value and opportunity for our customers, employees, investors, and ecosystem partners," is a testament to its pursuit of technology-forward innovation and customer satisfaction.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1984

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