Software QA Engineer
cisco
Job Description
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Define and drive test strategies for Catalyst 9000 switching platforms, ensuring comprehensive validation across functional, scale, performance, resiliency, interoperability, and security domains.
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Design, develop, and maintain scalable test automation frameworks using Python and modern automation technologies.
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Lead end-to-end validation of Layer 2, Layer 3, security, management, and platform software features.
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Develop automated test suites for feature validation, regression testing, system integration testing, upgrade testing, and customer deployment scenarios.
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Collaborate closely with software developers, architects, and product managers to understand feature requirements and define robust validation plans.
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Leverage AI-assisted development tools such as GitHub Copilot, Codex, Claude, and VS Code extensions to improve automation productivity, test coverage, and engineering efficiency.
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Build and enhance CI/CD-based validation pipelines to enable continuous testing and faster release cycles.
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Perform root-cause analysis of complex networking and software issues using protocol-level debugging and packet analysis tools.
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Drive quality metrics, risk assessments, defect prevention initiatives, and release readiness reviews.
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Mentor team members on networking technologies, automation best practices, troubleshooting techniques, and quality engineering methodologies.
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Partner with customer support and field teams to reproduce customer issues and validate software fixes.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
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Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Electronics, Information Technology, or a related field.
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1+ years of experience in Software QA, System Validation, or Network Testing.
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Strong experience testing enterprise switching and networking products.
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Hands-on expertise with:Layer 2 SwitchingVLANs, VTP, STP, RSTP, MSTEtherChannel, LACPLayer 3 RoutingIPv4 and IPv6ARP, DNS, DHCPOSPF, EIGRP, BGPVRF, MulticastACLs, QoSAAA, RADIUS, TACACS+High Availability and Redundancy features
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Experience validating network security features including:802.1XMACsecTrustSecPort SecurityDHCP SnoopingDynamic ARP InspectionIP Source Guard
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Strong automation experience using Python.
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Hands-on experience with REST APIs, NETCONF, RESTCONF, YANG, JSON, and YAML.
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Experience using automation and testing frameworks such as PyTest, Robot Framework, or equivalent.
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Strong Linux fundamentals including scripting, troubleshooting, and system administration.
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Experience with virtualization and container technologies such as VMware, KVM, Docker, or Kubernetes.
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Proficiency with Git and modern software development workflows.
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Strong troubleshooting experience using:WiresharktcpdumpIxiaSpirentNetwork protocol analyzers
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Strong analytical, debugging, and end-to-end solution validation skills.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
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