Software Engineer 1

About The Company

Arista Networks is a leading provider in the field of data-driven, client-to-cloud networking solutions. Renowned for its innovation and technological excellence, the company specializes in delivering high-performance networking hardware and software tailored for large data centers, campuses, and routing environments. Leveraging cutting-edge advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking, Arista empowers its clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape. The organization values diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where varied perspectives and backgrounds drive creativity and innovation. Committed to excellence, Arista Networks is dedicated to creating a supportive and growth-oriented culture that encourages continuous learning and development.

About The Role

As a Layer 1 Software Engineer at Arista Networks, you will play a critical role in developing software that manages the physical layer of networking hardware, where data packets interface with the outside world. Your primary focus will be on ensuring stable and reliable physical connectivity, which is fundamental for network performance. You will design, develop, and maintain control software for a range of physical components, including connectors, transceivers, and optics, supporting diverse hardware platforms. Your work will involve collaborating with hardware teams to define standards for new media types and bringing innovative physical connectivity solutions to market. Additionally, you will build instrumentation and telemetry tools to monitor link health, troubleshoot issues, and optimize network performance. This role offers the opportunity to work on a broad spectrum of software development activities, from feature addition and debugging to performance fine-tuning, with ownership from conception through deployment and customer support. The position emphasizes a collaborative environment, mentorship, and flexibility to explore other areas of software engineering as your interests evolve.

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience
• MS in the same fields with at least 2 years of experience
• Ph.D. in related disciplines with 1+ years of experience
• Expert proficiency in C or C++ programming languages
• Strong skills in Python programming
• Knowledge of UNIX or Linux operating systems
• Understanding of digital communication technologies, such as modulation and signal encoding (preferred)
• Familiarity with IP networking and distributed systems (preferred)
• Experience working with low-level hardware components (preferred)
• Solid understanding of software engineering principles and best practices
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to independently design solutions and implement features
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively within small teams

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with customers, product management, and hardware engineers to conceive and develop innovative Layer 1 features
• Architect, design, and oversee the development of new software functionalities for physical layer management
• Develop, test, and maintain features using C, C++, and Python, including reviewing specifications and contributing to design documents
• Build automated testing frameworks and infrastructure to validate new features and ensure software quality
• Coordinate with hardware and manufacturing teams to bring new Layer 1 components, such as transceivers and optics, to market
• Work closely with hardware engineers to optimize control interfaces for managing physical components
• Provide technical leadership across projects, ensuring best practices and high-quality deliverables
• Assist customer support teams and clients in analyzing, troubleshooting, and resolving network issues related to physical connectivity
• Partner with system test engineers to diagnose problems identified during testing and implement effective fixes
• Mentor junior engineers, guiding them through Arista’s development processes and best practices

Benefits

• Competitive base salary within the range of $95,000 to $145,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Discretionary bonuses and equity options (where applicable)
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Wellbeing programs to support mental and physical health
• Income protection plans
• Group retirement savings plan to help secure your financial future
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development
• Flexible work arrangements and a supportive, inclusive work environment

Equal Opportunity

Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our innovation and success, and we strive to foster a culture of respect and collaboration.