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Networking Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with Apple Silicon, hardware engineering and data center teams, and/or external partners in building scalable networking infrastructure. Work with cross functional teams through software ...

Switch Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

... networking features such as adaptive routing and congestion control for RoCE traffic. This role ... software engineering with a primary focus on networking and switching * Hands-on experience ...

New

Senior Software Engineer, AI Networking

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

We are seeking an outstanding Software Engineer to join our US-based networking software team. As a technical leader, you will lead the transformation of AI networking systems. You will apply your ...

Senior Software Engineer, AI Networking

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

We are seeking an outstanding Software Engineer to join our US-based networking software team. As a technical leader, you will lead the transformation of AI networking systems. You will apply your ...

Showing results 21-40

Networking Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do networking software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for networking software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a networking software engineer?

A Networking Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software that enables communication between computers, devices, and networks. They work with network protocols, software-defined networking (SDN), and network security to optimize performance and reliability. Their role involves writing code, debugging network applications, and collaborating with hardware and infrastructure teams to create scalable solutions.

What are some typical day-to-day tasks for a networking software engineer?

As a Networking Software Engineer, your daily responsibilities may include designing and developing network software, troubleshooting network issues, and optimizing existing protocols or applications. You’ll often collaborate with hardware engineers, QA testers, and other developers to ensure seamless integration and high network performance. Participation in code reviews and staying current with networking advancements are also common parts of the job. This role provides opportunities to solve complex technical challenges and contribute significantly to the reliability and scalability of an organization’s IT infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the networking software engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Networking Software Engineer, you need a solid grounding in computer networking protocols, programming languages such as C/C++ or Python, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with networking equipment, network simulation tools, and certifications like Cisco's CCNA or CCNP are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this position. These skills ensure the engineer can develop robust, scalable networking solutions and collaborate efficiently in rapidly changing technical environments.

Are networking software engineers still in demand?

Networking software engineers are currently in high demand due to the increasing reliance on network infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Skills in programming, network protocols, and certifications like CCNA or Cisco DevNet can enhance job prospects in this field.

Is networking a high paying job?

Networking software engineers typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other tech roles, especially with experience and specialized skills in areas like network security, protocols, and infrastructure. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and certifications such as Cisco or CompTIA, but overall, it is considered a well-compensated profession in the technology sector.

What cities in California are hiring for Networking Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Networking Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Networking Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Senior Platform Networking Software Engineer, Systems Engineering

Everpure

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

THE ROLE

Join the Systems Software team to architect and deliver the core software powering the industry's most innovative, high-availability storage platforms. You will lead the development of mission-critical system components, transforming complex hardware-software integration challenges into seamless, zero-downtime customer experiences. By collaborating with hardware and cross-functional software teams, you will define the future of enterprise data storage and ensure our platforms remain at the cutting edge of performance and reliability.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Architect High-Performance Networking: Drive the end-to-end design and debugging of C/C++ networking software to ensure next-generation switching and fabric platforms meet rigorous scalability and resiliency benchmarks.

  • Own Core Protocol Development: Deliver critical Layer 2 and Layer 3 features-including forwarding behavior and control-plane protocols-that simplify operations for global enterprise customers.

  • Lead Hardware-Software Integration: Partner with ASIC vendors and internal platform teams to implement switch SDK functionalities, ensuring robust hardware interfaces and successful in-service software upgrades (ISSU).

  • Innovate with Open Networking: Design and customize SONiC-based solutions across the control and data planes to enhance our disaggregated network operating system capabilities.

  • Drive Technical Excellence: Act as a technical mentor and lead for complex initiatives, setting the standard for code quality and architectural decisions across cross-functional networking efforts.

  • We are primarily an in-office environment and therefore, you will be expected to work from the Santa Clara, CA office in compliance with Pure's policies, unless you are on PTO, or work travel, or other approved leave.

WHAT YOU BRING

  • Systems Programming Expertise: Advanced proficiency in C/C++ (C++11+) with a track record of building and debugging performance-sensitive systems software or networking applications.

  • Deep Networking Domain Knowledge: Mastery of Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols (Ethernet, VLANs, BGP, ECMP) and the ability to translate these complex behaviors into production-ready code.

  • Hardware Interfacing Skills: Practical experience working with switch SDKs or Linux networking internals (kernel concepts, drivers, or packet processing) to interact directly with ASIC capabilities.

  • Availability-Focused Engineering: Understanding of non-disruptive upgrade (NDU) technologies and the architectural discipline required to build systems that minimize customer impact during maintenance.

  • Collaborative Technical Leadership: Ability to independently drive complex problem-solving and influence technical direction across multiple teams while mentoring junior engineers.

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