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Software Defined Networking Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer II, SDN Networking

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

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

Software Engineer II, SDN Networking

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

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

Senior Network Engineer

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... software defined networking infrastructure. In this role you will provide thought leadership and actively engage in a network transformation project to migrate legacy physical networking ...

Senior Network Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$100K - $137K/yr

... software defined networking infrastructure. In this role you will provide thought leadership and actively engage in a network transformation project to migrate legacy physical networking ...

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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 Jun 22, 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 network control plane from the data plane, allowing centralized management and dynamic configuration of network devices through software. It enables more flexible, efficient, and programmable networks, often used in data centers and enterprise environments. SDN skills are valuable for network administrators and engineers working with network automation tools and protocols like OpenFlow.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or network engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries like technology or finance. These roles often require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and working in competitive environments.

What is the highest paid job in networking?

In networking, the highest paid roles are often senior positions such as Network Architects or Chief Network Officers, who design and oversee complex network infrastructure. These roles typically require advanced certifications like CCNP or CCIE and extensive experience, with salaries reaching six figures or higher depending on the organization and location.
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:
Infographic showing various Software Defined Networking job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 74% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,311 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Software Engineer II, SDN Networking

Crusoe

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Crusoe is on a mission to accelerate the abundance of energy and intelligence. As the only vertically integrated AI infrastructure company built from the ground up, we own and operate each layer of the stack — from electrons to tokens — to power the world's most ambitious AI workloads. When you join Crusoe, you join a team that is building the future, faster.

We're in the midst of the greatest industrial revolution of our time. The demand for AI compute is boundless, and power is a bottleneck. We're solving that — with an energy-first approach that makes AI infrastructure better for the world and faster for the people innovating with AI.

We're looking for problem-solving, opportunity-finding teammates with a sense of urgency, who believe in the scale of our ambition and thrive on a path not fully paved — people who want to grow their careers alongside a team of experts across energy, manufacturing, data center construction, and cloud services.

If you want to do the most meaningful work of your career, help our customers and partners advance their AI strategies, and be part of a high-performing team that believes in each other, come build with us at Crusoe.

About This Role:

As a Software Engineer II - Software Defined Networking, you will lead the development and execution of our Software Defined Networking strategy. You will work extensively with the Linux Kernel, utilizing technologies such as XDP/EBPF, DPDK, SmartNIC, and DPU/IPU to drive innovation and performance improvements.


What You’ll Be Working On:

  • Develop and execute the roadmap for the Software Defined Networking strategy at Crusoe Cloud.

  • Be highly hands-on, guiding the engineering team through architecture decisions, design processes, design reviews, code reviews, and implementation tasks.

  • Collaborate with the network infrastructure organization to develop industry-leading networking infrastructure.

  • Lead Linux Kernel and driver development, system architecture design, production support, and cross-functional collaboration.

What You’ll Bring to the Team:

  • 2+ years of related experience building and operating at scale in a production environment.

  • Proven experience in system programming with C, C++ and/or Rust.

  • Extensive knowledge of Linux Systems Internals and computer architecture.

  • Expertise in Network Programming and Packet Processing pipelines.

  • Hands-on experience with kernel bypass technologies such as XDP/EBPF, AF_XDP, and DPDK.

  • In-depth understanding of TCP/IP and network accelerators like Mellanox/Nvidia SmartNIC (ConnectX6/7), DPU Bluefield3, and Intel IPU.

  • Familiarity with SR-IOV, vDPA, and scalable functions.

  • Strong background in kernel or embedded development, particularly with the Linux kernel.

  • Experience with Open vSwitch, Openflow, and Open Virtual Networking.

  • Knowledge of professional software engineering practices and best practices for the full software development life cycle, including coding standards, code reviews, source control management, build processes, testing, and operations.

  • Demonstrated track record of contributions to the open source community (e.g., Open vSwitch/OVS, Open Virtual Networking/OVN, Multus, Cilium).

Bonus Points:

  • Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

  • Proven leadership experience in a technical role.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

  • Experience with cloud networking platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and virtualization technologies (VMware, KVM).

Benefits:

  • Competitive compensation

  • Restricted Stock Units

  • Paid time off & paid holidays

  • Comprehensive health, dental & vision insurance

  • Employer contributions to HSA account

  • Paid parental leave

  • Paid life insurance, short-term and long-term disability

  • Professional development & tuition reimbursement

  • Mental health & wellness support

  • Commuter benefits (parking & transit)

  • Cell phone stipend

  • 401(k) Retirement plan with company match up to 4% of salary

  • Volunteer time off

Compensation:
Compensation will be paid in the range of $131,000 - $154,000 per year + Bonus. Restricted Stock Units are included in all offers. Compensation will be determined based on the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Crusoe is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, citizenship, marital status, sex/gender, sexual preference/ orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, national origin, or any other status protected by law or regulation.