> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1483847-hardware-engineer-hybrid-2011668](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1483847-hardware-engineer-hybrid-2011668). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Hardware Engineer (hybrid) - 2011668

- **Company:** Cisco Systems, Inc.
- **Location:** San Jose, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Experienced
- **Salary:** $138,100.0 - $196,500.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Automation of Tests, C++ (Programming Language), Network Operating System (NOS), Computer Programming, Computer Networks, Computer Engineering, Network Congestion, Data Centers, Software Debugging, Linux, Ethernet, Firmware, Hardware Design, Interoperability, Python (Programming Language), Routing, PCI Express, System Testing, Systems Integration, TCP/IP, Network Routers, Computer Networking Systems, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Nx-os, Data Center Networking, System-level Testing, Information Technology, Low Latency, Cisco
- **Published:** July 29, 2026
- **Apply:** https://dejobs.org/x/x/F5746FEC806246F39AFB4285C7E8F5F9/job/

## About the Role

* Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

 * 4+ years of experience in system validation, networking test, or hardware/software integration

 * Strong knowledge of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing, switching)

 * Experience with Linux systems and debugging tools

 * Programming/scripting experience (Python, C/C++, or similar)

 * Hands-on experience with system-level debugging and validation

Preferred Qualifications:

 * Experience with data center networking (leaf-spine, VXLAN, EVPN)

 * Familiarity with high-speed interfaces (Ethernet 25G/100G/400G, PCIe)

 * Experience testing network operating systems (NX-OS, IOS-XR, or similar)

 * Knowledge of traffic generators (Ixia, Spirent) and network test tools

 * Experience with automation frameworks and large-scale testbeds

 * Background in ASIC bring-up or platform validation

## Description

hybrid role requiring some on site work activity each week in San Jose CA office

Meet the Team:

Cisco Systems is seeking a System Level Test Engineer to validate and ensure the quality of next-generation networking platforms, including switches, routers, and data center systems.

Who You Are:

In this role, you will drive end-to-end system validation across hardware, firmware, and software stacks, ensuring robust performance, scalability, and reliability under real-world and stress conditions.

Key Responsibilities:

System Validation & Integration

 * Define and execute system-level validation strategies for complex networking platforms

 * Validate end-to-end functionality across hardware, OS, and networking software stacks

 * Perform feature, regression, interoperability, and scale testing

Test Development & Automation

 * Develop automated test frameworks using Python, C/C++, or similar languages

 * Build scalable validation environments for high-throughput networking systems

 * Integrate tests into CI/CD pipelines for continuous validation

Performance & Scale Testing

 * Design and execute tests for throughput, latency, packet loss, and scale limits

 * Validate system behavior under high traffic loads and real-world network conditions

 * Analyze system performance across L2/L3 protocols and data center workloads

Debug & Root Cause Analysis

 * Debug complex issues spanning ASICs, firmware, drivers, and network OS

 * Perform root cause analysis using logs, traces, and lab instrumentation

 * Collaborate with design and software teams to resolve issues efficiently

Cross-Functional Collaboration

 * Partner with ASIC, hardware design, software, and architecture teams

 * Influence design decisions by identifying system-level risks early

 * Work with customers and field teams to reproduce and resolve issues


## Related Videos

- [How Cisco embraced a DevOps culture within its network engineering team](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/99-how-cisco-embraced-a-devops-culture-within-its-network-engineering-team)
- [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker)
- [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips)
- [Computer Vision from the Edge to the Cloud done easy](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/263-computer-vision-from-the-edge-to-the-cloud-done-easy)
- [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker)
- [Your Infrastructure Is Not a Playground: AI Agents for Infra Done Right](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2084-your-infrastructure-is-not-a-playground-ai-agents-for-infra-done-right)

## Related Articles

- [Top 6 Hackathons for Developers in 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/263-top-6-hackathons-for-developers-in-2023)
- [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated)
- [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs)
- [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers)
- [9 Ways to Make Money Hacking](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/333-9-ways-to-make-money-hacking)
- [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard)