Senior/Lead Software Engineer – Packet Forwarding Engines

Arista Networks

. Develop packet forwarding engine and system software for Arista's Linux-based EOS network operating system .

Posted 10/5/2026full-timeRemote • CanadaSenior💰 CA$120,000 - CA$195,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing packet forwarding engines and system software for Linux-based operating systems, with strong skills in C, C++, and Python. Capable of collaborating with cross-functional teams and mentoring junior engineers while effectively troubleshooting and solving complex network problems.

Highest-signal resume keywords

C ProgrammingC++ ProgrammingPython ProgrammingLinux Operating SystemIP Networking

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Packet Forwarding Engine DevelopmentSoftware DebuggingAutomated TestingFunctional Specifications WritingDesign Specifications Writing

Soft Skills

Problem-SolvingTeam CollaborationMentoring

Tools & Technologies

Vendor-Provided Software LibrariesHardware DriversDiagnostic Software

Industry Keywords

Software Engineering PrinciplesDistributed SystemsNetwork Troubleshooting

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Distributed SystemsLinuxPythonUnixC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop packet forwarding engine and system software for Arista's Linux-based EOS network operating system
Understand functional and technical requirements for upcoming projects
Write functional specifications, design specifications, and test plans
Implement software using C, C++, and Python
Use, test, and debug vendor-provided software libraries for packet forwarding engines and hardware components
Develop and execute automated tests
Debug and fix problems found by automated tests
Bring up new hardware and develop features requiring hardware forwarding support, including low-level hardware drivers
Support customers by analyzing network problems and providing software releases or patches
Collaborate with hardware teams, hardware component vendors, diagnostic software teams, and System Test Engineers
Design and develop validation software for new packet forwarding engine ASICs and hardware components
Mentor new and junior engineers
Review and contribute to team specifications and implementations
Create, update, and report implementation and debugging schedules to the project lead

Requirements

What you’ll need

BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering plus 8 years of experience, or MS in one of these fields plus 6 years of experience, or Ph.D. in one of these fields plus 3 years of experience, or equivalent work experience
Experience or knowledge of C or C++
Knowledge of UNIX or Linux
Understanding of IP networking or distributed systems
Applied understanding of software engineering principles
Strong problem-solving and software troubleshooting skills
Ability to design and implement a solution to a small-sized problem without outside help
Ability to work on a small team solving a medium-sized problem with limited oversight

Benefits

Comp & perks

Discretionary Arista bonuses
Equity
Medical benefits
Dental benefits
Vision benefits
Wellbeing benefits
Income protection
Group Retirement Savings Plan