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Software Defined Networking Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crusoe

Senior Software Engineer, Networking

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer - Software Defined Networking will lead the development and execution of the Software Defined Networking strategy, collaborating with the engineering team and network ...

KBR

Network Software Developer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Individuals in this position operate as part of an MIT LL team and are responsible for developing software related to software defined networking, routing protocols, and associated software ...

KBR, Inc.

Network Software Developer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Individuals in this position operate as part of an MIT LL team and are responsible for developing software related to software defined networking, routing protocols, and associated software ...

Crusoe

Senior Software Engineer, Networking

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

As a Senior Software Engineer - Software Defined Networking, you will lead the development and execution of our Software Defined Networking strategy. You will work extensively with the Linux Kernel ...

Crusoe

Senior Software Engineer, Networking

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

As a Senior Software Engineer - Software Defined Networking, you will lead the development and execution of our Software Defined Networking strategy. You will work extensively with the Linux Kernel ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

IL · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Software Defined Network Engineer The Opportunity: Maintain responsibility for completing site surveys and creating structured designs for the customer's network in support of voice, data, security ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

IL · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Share Software Defined Network Engineer The Opportunity: Maintain responsibility for completing site surveys and creating structured designs for the customer's network in support of voice, data ...

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Software Defined Networking information

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$30.5K

$45.3K

$61K

How much do software defined networking jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for software defined networking in the United States is $45,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does software-defined networking do?

Software-defined networking (SDN) is a technology that separates the control plane from the data plane in network devices, allowing centralized management and dynamic configuration of network resources. SDN enables more flexible, efficient, and programmable networks, often using open protocols like OpenFlow. Network engineers working with SDN need skills in programming, network architecture, and familiarity with network management tools.

What is Software Defined Networking (SDN)?

Software Defined Networking (SDN) is a network architecture approach that separates the control plane from the data plane in networking equipment. This means that the network intelligence and policy-making are centralized in a software-based SDN controller, rather than being distributed across individual hardware devices. SDN allows for easier network management, programmability, and automation, making it possible to quickly adapt to changing business needs and optimize network resources. Organizations use SDN to improve network efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enable innovation in network services.

What is the difference between Software Defined Networking vs Network Engineer?

AspectSoftware Defined NetworkingNetwork Engineer
Primary FocusAutomating and centralizing network management through softwareDesigning, implementing, and maintaining physical and virtual networks
Required SkillsNetworking protocols, virtualization, scripting, software developmentNetworking protocols, hardware configuration, troubleshooting
CertificationsCisco CCNA/CCNP, VMware, Cisco DevNetCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentData centers, cloud environments, software development teamsCorporate offices, data centers, client sites

While Software Defined Networking focuses on software-based network management and automation, Network Engineers handle the physical and virtual network infrastructure. Both roles require networking knowledge, but SDN emphasizes programming and software skills, whereas Network Engineers focus on hardware and network configuration.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Software Defined Networking (SDN)?

Professionals in Software Defined Networking often encounter challenges such as integrating SDN solutions with existing legacy infrastructure, ensuring network security in dynamically programmable environments, and keeping up with rapidly evolving protocols and technologies. Collaboration between network engineers, software developers, and IT security teams is critical for successful deployment and management of SDN systems. Staying current with industry standards and effective troubleshooting are also important daily aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer, you need a strong background in computer networking, programming (such as Python or Java), and a relevant degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Familiarity with SDN controllers (like OpenDaylight or ONOS), virtualization platforms, and certifications such as Cisco CCNP or equivalent are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help set professionals apart in designing and managing complex, dynamic networks. These skills and qualifications are vital for building scalable, automated networks that support business agility and innovation.

Will AI replace networking?

Software Defined Networking (SDN) professionals focus on managing and automating network infrastructure through software. While AI can enhance network management, it is unlikely to fully replace networking roles, as human expertise is essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex networks. AI tools are more likely to serve as complementary technologies that improve efficiency and security.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

In the field of Software Defined Networking, senior engineers or architects with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large tech companies. These roles often require expertise in network architecture, security, and advanced networking tools, along with leadership responsibilities. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What is the highest paying networking job?

In the field of Software Defined Networking, senior roles such as Network Architects or Network Engineering Managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require advanced skills in network design, security, and certifications like Cisco CCIE or Cisco DevNet, along with extensive experience in managing complex network environments.
More about Software Defined Networking jobs
What cities are hiring for Software Defined Networking jobs? Cities with the most Software Defined Networking job openings:
What states have the most Software Defined Networking jobs? States with the most job openings for Software Defined Networking jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Software Defined Networking jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Software Defined Networking jobs are:
Software Defined Networking jobs near you
Software Development Engineer II, Software Defined Networking

Software Development Engineer II, Software Defined Networking

Amazon

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6,962 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

The Software Defined Infrastructure (SDI) team is building Amazon's next-generation networking platform replacing proprietary vendor switches with cost-optimized white-box hardware running SONiC, an open-source network operating system. SDI delivers scalable, reliable, and secure network infrastructure powering Amazon Robotics workcells and large-scale Fulfillment Center deployments, with approximately 1,600 switches in production across the fleet.
We are looking for a Software Development Engineer with expertise in C++, Linux systems, and networking software to help accelerate SDI's platform capabilities and support Amazon's 2026 deployment goals. You will develop and optimize SONiC-based network software, build automation and telemetry systems, drive platform integrations with ASIC vendors, and improve operational reliability across distributed network infrastructure at scale.
Key job responsibilities
Design and develop SONiC networking features, platform services, and device drivers
Debug and optimize Linux-based networking systems across production deployments
Collaborate with hardware and ASIC vendors (Broadcom, Marvell) on platform bring-up, SAI integration, and SDK enablement
Build and improve telemetry pipelines, deployment automation, and operational tooling
Drive software quality through CI/CD, automated testing, and firmware hardening
Work across software, infrastructure, and operations teams to deliver production-ready networking solutions
A day in the life
An engineer on this team would be working with the Network engineers on the Local Area Network (LAN) team and the Wireless Engineering team on creating and improving tools

Working with deployment engineering to create and improve the site build and decommission processes additionally creating automation to allow reducing the time involved in those activities.
Amazon offers a full range of benefits for you and eligible family members, including domestic partners. Benefits can vary by location, the number of regularly scheduled hours you work, length of employment, and job status such as seasonal or temporary employment.


The benefits that generally apply to regular, full-time employees include:
1. Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
2. Maternity and Parental Leave Options
3.

Paid Time Off (PTO)
4. 401(k) Plan
If you are not sure that every qualification on the list above describes you exactly, we'd still love to hear from you. At Amazon, we value people with unique backgrounds, experiences, and skillsets.

If you're passionate about this role and want to make an impact on a global scale, please apply!
About the team
The engineer joining this team will be part of an organization that owns over 450,000 access points bridging 1.4 million customer devices, and over 200,000 network devices ( over 9,000,000 ports) across more then 2,400 active sites. We partner with Network, Software and Systems Engineers to deliver automation for building and decommissioning the network infrastructure. Additionally create new tools or improve existing ones for network operators

The team plans to create a new product that would allow teams to visualize the cost incurred on various aspects of the infrastructure.

What Amazon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

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