Cisco Software Engineer Jobs 2026 | Python, AI & Network Automation Opportunity
Cisco Software Engineer Jobs 2026 | Network Automation & AI Engineering
Cisco is inviting applications for the Software Engineer role focused on Network Automation and AI-driven testing. This opportunity is suitable for Bachelor’s graduates with at least one year of professional experience or Master’s graduates who have strong Python programming skills and an interest in Artificial Intelligence, networking, automation, and software engineering. Although this posting advertises potential future openings, eligible candidates are encouraged to apply so they can be considered when relevant positions become available.
As part of Cisco’s engineering team, you’ll contribute to building scalable automation frameworks, AI-powered testing solutions, and enterprise networking platforms that support customers worldwide. The role provides hands-on exposure to Generative AI, automation tools, Linux environments, networking technologies, and modern software development practices while working with one of the global leaders in networking and digital infrastructure.
📌 Quick Job Snapshot
| Company Name | Cisco |
| Role | Software Engineer |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science with 1+ years of experience OR Master’s Degree |
| Experience | 1+ Years / Master’s Graduates |
| Eligible Batch | 2024, 2025 & 2026 |
| Salary | ₹10 LPA – ₹18 LPA (Estimated) |
| Job Type | Full-Time |
| Work Mode | On-site / Hybrid (Business Requirement) |
Role Overview
As a Software Engineer at Cisco, you will design, automate, and validate customer use cases on the Cisco 8000 Platform (IOS-XR). Your responsibilities extend beyond conventional testing, as you’ll develop intelligent automation frameworks, execute large-scale test cases, and leverage Artificial Intelligence to improve testing efficiency, reliability, and productivity.
The role also offers an opportunity to work with AI-powered assistants, Generative AI technologies, networking automation, Linux environments, and enterprise-grade software development. Working alongside experienced engineers, you’ll contribute to building scalable testing platforms while ensuring networking solutions meet customer expectations for performance, quality, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, automate, and qualify customer use cases on Cisco 8000 Platform (IOS-XR).
- Create comprehensive test plans based on customer deployment requirements.
- Develop advanced automation frameworks and testing tools.
- Execute automated test cases and validate software defects.
- Verify bug fixes and ensure software quality before deployment.
- Leverage AI-powered tools and automation frameworks to improve testing efficiency.
- Build chatbots and AI assistants for defect triaging, knowledge retrieval, and automated testing support.
- Apply Generative AI for test case generation, YAML configuration creation, log analysis, and root-cause guidance.
- Improve automation coverage, performance benchmarking, and testing scalability.
- Research AI models and intelligent observability solutions for networking automation.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to deliver reliable enterprise networking solutions.
Required Skills & Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with 1+ years of professional experience OR Master’s degree.
- Strong programming skills in Python.
- Hands-on experience with AI productivity tools, chatbot frameworks, or automation assistants.
- Knowledge of Linux operating systems.
- Experience with Bash or Unix shell scripting.
- Basic understanding of networking protocols and technologies.
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Preferred Skills
- CCNA certification.
- Knowledge of Netconf, REST APIs, gNMI, gRPC, and OpenConfig/YANG models.
- Experience with pyTest, Ansible, Jenkins, or Robot Framework.
- Understanding of network automation technologies.
- Knowledge of AI-driven software development and testing.
- Experience working in Linux-based development environments.
💰 Salary Insights
Cisco has not officially disclosed the salary for this position. Based on similar Software Engineer roles at leading multinational technology companies, candidates can expect an estimated annual compensation ranging from ₹10 LPA to ₹18 LPA. Actual salary may vary depending on experience, skills, interview performance, and company compensation policies.
⭐ Why This Role is Good for Candidates
This Software Engineer opportunity at Cisco is ideal for candidates who want to build expertise in Network Automation, Artificial Intelligence, and enterprise software engineering. You’ll gain practical experience working with Python, Linux, AI-powered automation, networking technologies, and modern testing frameworks while collaborating with experienced engineers. The skills developed in this role are highly transferable and can open career opportunities in Software Engineering, Network Automation, DevOps, AI Engineering, Site Reliability Engineering (SRE), and Cloud Infrastructure.
📘 Recommended Skills & Learning Resources
Since this role requires strong programming and automation skills, improving your knowledge in Python, AWS, and SQL can significantly strengthen your profile.
🎯 Interview Preparation
Preparing for technical interviews in advance can improve your chances of success. Practice Python fundamentals, networking concepts, automation, Linux commands, and software engineering basics using these resources.
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How to Apply for Cisco Software Engineer Jobs 2026
- Click the Apply Now button below.
- Visit the official Cisco Careers website.
- Read the complete job description and eligibility requirements carefully.
- Prepare your updated resume highlighting your Python, AI, networking, Linux, and automation skills.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
- Upload your latest resume and any required supporting documents.
- Review your application and submit it successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who can apply for the Cisco Software Engineer role?
Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and at least one year of professional experience or candidates with a Master’s degree can apply. Strong Python programming skills and knowledge of networking, Linux, and AI-based automation are highly preferred.
Q2. What is the expected salary for this role?
Cisco has not officially announced the salary. Based on industry standards, the estimated annual salary for this position ranges between ₹10 LPA and ₹18 LPA, depending on experience and interview performance.
Q3. Which technical skills are most important for this job?
Key skills include Python programming, Linux, Bash scripting, AI-powered productivity tools, networking fundamentals, REST APIs, Netconf, gRPC, OpenConfig/YANG, automation frameworks such as pyTest, Ansible, Jenkins, Robot Framework, and a basic understanding of Generative AI applications.
If you’re looking to build a career in software engineering, AI-driven automation, and enterprise networking, this Cisco opportunity is an excellent choice. Continue enhancing your programming skills, practice technical interviews regularly, and explore the latest software engineering jobs to stay ahead in today’s competitive technology industry.
