Senior Lead Systems Software Engineer (Networking)

General Overview

Functional Area:  Engineering        
Career Stream:  Design - Software Engineering
SAP Short Name:  SLE-ENG-DSE
Job Level:  Level 09
IC/MGR:  Individual Contributor        
Direct/Indirect Indicator:  Indirect

Summary

The Senior Lead Systems Software Engineer (Networking) is a highly experienced individual contributor responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing core components of a Network Operating System (NOS) for high-performance networking platforms. This role operates at the intersection of software and hardware, with a strong focus on low-level systems development, Layer 2/Layer 3 networking, and ASIC integration.

This position plays a critical role in building scalable, high-throughput networking solutions, contributing to architecture decisions, and driving complex technical initiatives across the platform. The engineer is expected to work independently, influence design direction, and mentor other engineers while maintaining hands-on ownership of key deliverables.

Detailed Description

• Design, develop, and enhance core NOS components, including control plane and data plane functionality
• Implement and optimize Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking protocols (e.g., routing, switching, VXLAN, EVPN)
• Integrate and work closely with ASIC vendors (e.g., Broadcom, Marvell) using SAI/SDK interfaces
• Contribute to SONiC-based or similar open networking platforms
• Debug and resolve complex issues spanning hardware, kernel, and user-space components
• Analyze and optimize system performance, scalability, and reliability in high-speed networking environments (100G/400G+)
• Participate in system architecture and design discussions, providing technical leadership and direction
• Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, platform, and validation teams to ensure seamless integration
• Drive end-to-end ownership of features, from design through deployment and support
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to overall team technical growth
• Contribute to best practices in coding, design, and system-level troubleshooting

Technical Knowledge

• • Strong proficiency in C/C++ systems programming
  • Deep understanding of networking fundamentals, especially Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols
  • Experience with Network Operating Systems (SONiC or similar)
  • Hands-on experience with ASIC integration, including SAI and vendor SDKs
  • Strong knowledge of Linux systems, including kernel and networking stack
  • Understanding of high-performance and scalable system design principles

Skills

• Advanced debugging and problem-solving across distributed and low-level systems
• Ability to design and implement scalable, high-performance networking solutions
• Strong analytical thinking and ability to troubleshoot complex issues
• Effective cross-functional collaboration with hardware and software teams
• Ability to translate architecture into implementation with strong attention to detail

Compentencies

• Operates as a technical leader, influencing design and architectural direction
• Demonstrates strong ownership and accountability for business-critical systems
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance on ambiguous problems
• Strong mentorship and knowledge-sharing mindset
• Focus on quality, scalability, and long-term maintainability
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment

Physical Demands

• Duties of this position are performed in a normal office environment.
• Duties may require extended periods of sitting and sustained visual concentration on a computer monitor or on numbers and other detailed data. 
• Repetitive manual movements (e.g., data entry, using a computer mouse, using a calculator, etc.) are frequently required.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Typical Experience

• 6 to 12 years

Typical Education

Bachelor degree or consideration of an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Educational Requirements may vary by Geography

Notes

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities of the position. Employees are held accountable for all duties of the job. Job duties and the % of time identified for any function are subject to change at any time.