Software Engineer-India Engineering (Code with Cisco)

Cisco’s interview process typically starts with an online coding test focusing on data structures, algorithms, and Python fundamentals. Successful candidates move to a technical interview that blends coding on a whiteboard, system design basics, and networking concepts. The final HR round assesses cultural fit, communication skills, and motivation. Overall difficulty is moderate to high; thorough DSA practice and a solid grasp of networking fundamentals are key.

Cisco promotes a collaborative, inclusive culture where engineers are encouraged to experiment and innovate. Employees enjoy strong growth opportunities through internal mobility, mentorship programs, and access to cutting‑edge technologies. The company also emphasizes work‑life balance with flexible work arrangements and robust employee wellness initiatives.

B.Tech / B.E. or M.Tech / M.E. in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electronics & Communication, or related streams. Minimum CGPA/percentage 6.5/65% (or equivalent). Must be a 2027 graduate (or graduating in 2027). No active backlogs at the time of joining. 0 years of professional experience required.

Round 1: Online Coding Assessment (DSA & Python) → Round 2: Technical Interview (design, coding, system concepts) → Round 3: Managerial/HR Interview (fit, motivations, compensation discussion)

Cisco is a global leader in networking, security, and collaboration technologies, serving enterprises, service providers, and public sector customers across more than 100 countries. With a legacy of over four decades, Cisco has pioneered innovations that power the modern internet, from the first routers to advanced AI‑driven security platforms. The company’s culture emphasizes continuous learning, diversity, and a commitment to making technology accessible to everyone, which makes it an attractive destination for fresh engineering talent in India. At Cisco India, the Engineering/UHR (University Hiring) team focuses on building next‑generation software that simplifies complex networking challenges while ensuring security and privacy. The FY27 "Code with Cisco" initiative is designed to attract recent graduates who are eager to contribute to real‑world products from day one. As a Software Engineer, you will be part of a collaborative environment where design thinking, agile practices, and secure coding are core to daily work. You will get exposure to a broad portfolio that includes networking protocols, cloud‑native applications, and embedded systems, allowing you to explore multiple domains early in your career. Key Responsibilities: 1. Design, develop, and debug software components following Cisco’s Design Thinking Principles. 2. Write clean, maintainable code in Python (and other languages as needed) and develop unit tests. 3. Participate in code reviews, providing and incorporating feedback to improve code quality. 4. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver features from requirement gathering to production release. 5. Conduct performance profiling and optimization for high‑throughput networking applications. 6. Assist in troubleshooting production incidents and contribute to post‑mortem analysis. 7. Contribute to documentation, technical specifications, and knowledge‑sharing sessions. 8. Stay updated with emerging technologies such as cloud computing, AI/ML, and security frameworks. 9. Support on‑call rotations and incident triage as required. 10. Mentor peers and share learnings from independent research or side projects. Tech Stack: Python, C/C++, Linux, TCP/IP, REST APIs, Git, Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, networking tools (Wireshark, tcpdump), security protocols (TLS, IPsec). Growth Path: Freshers start as Software Engineer I, with clear progression to Engineer II, Senior Engineer, and eventually Technical Lead or Architect roles. Cisco offers rotational programs, internal certifications, and access to a global learning platform, enabling rapid skill expansion. Why Join Cisco? You will work on products that impact millions of users worldwide, receive mentorship from industry veterans, and benefit from a supportive, inclusive culture that rewards innovation. The company’s strong emphasis on work‑life balance, flexible work arrangements, and robust employee benefits make it an ideal place to launch a rewarding engineering career.