C++ Software Engineer – SDK System & Performance
First seen by Alion on Jul 14, 2026. Cisco Systems scores A on the Alion truth index.
Meet the Team
We, at CISCO Silicon One™, are building SDK, firmware, simulator, and compiler for the top-of-the-line Networking ASIC.
The SDK System & Performance team manages all of SDK features that are device agnostic. This involves intricate C++ projects, that requires proficiency and intuition of C++, compiler, linker, loader, and general Linux program runtime environment and subsystems. You will improve SDK code quality, manage SDK threads, and various common SDK tools and utilities.
We manage SDK memory footprint and debuggability, which involves deep understanding of the Linux memory subsystem. You will profile, analyse, propose and implement solutions to improve SDK memory usage, and make it more robust.
One of the major cross device functionalities and engineering challenges is supporting SDK critical updates on live systems. You will work closely with major CISCO customers to enable and validate these functionalities.
We are looking for people who are in love with technology and engineering to help us push the limits of what is possible through innovation, determination, and teamwork.
Your Impact
Design and deliver core, cross-device SDK infrastructure in modern C++ (C++14/C++17), with a strong focus on performance, scalability, and long-term maintainability
Drive system-level engineering across the build and runtime stack, including deep work with the compiler, linker, loader, and binary/layout considerations
Own and improve the SDK’s memory footprint and debuggability, building mechanisms that increase observability and reliability in production environments
Diagnose complex issues across compile-time and runtime (performance regressions, memory behaviour, and hard-to-reproduce failures) and implement durable fixes
Develop and maintain low-level tooling and debug layers (e.g., allocation tracking/interposition) to support troubleshooting and serviceability
Collaborate with partner teams to shape SDK architecture, design patterns, and engineering practices that enable robust platform operation and critical update workflows
The result of your work will be integrated into the products of world-leading companies and will have a worldwide impact.
Minimum Qualifications
3+ years of programming experience in C++ and system programming
Solid knowledge of Linux
Academic education in computer technology (finished BSc/MSc studies)
Fluency in spoken and written English
Preferred Qualifications
Solid understanding of hardware architecture and its interaction with software.
Passion for SW architecture.
Good problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
Experience with other programming languages and tools such as Python.
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.