MPLS Network Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Software Automation Engineer with a strong background in network automation, software development, and systems integration. This role will focus on the design, development, and delivery of automation solutions across Cisco's networking portfolio, driving efficiency, scalability, and innovation within complex enterprise and service provider environments.

Working closely with engineering, architecture, and product teams, you will play a key role in shaping automation strategies, developing robust software solutions, and enabling seamless integration across Cisco's automation ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities
Design, architect, and deliver advanced network automation solutions using Cisco NSO and associated technologies.
Develop integration frameworks leveraging REST APIs, RESTConf, API gateways (Kong), Kafka, and database technologies.
Partner with product management and engineering teams to define and execute automation roadmaps and technical strategies.
Promote and implement Agile and DevOps best practices, including CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins, Git, and Jira.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to development and operational teams.
Engage with key stakeholders to ensure automation initiatives align with business objectives and operational requirements.
Evaluate and incorporate emerging technologies within virtualisation and containerisation environments, including Docker, Kubernetes, ESXi, and KVM.
Design and develop automation workflows and software solutions using advanced Python programming techniques.
Establish and maintain best practices around scalability, resilience, security, and interoperability across automation platforms.
Required Skills & Experience
Strong understanding of both fundamental and advanced networking concepts, protocols, and architectures.
Proven expertise in network automation technologies and methodologies.
Hands-on experience with Cisco Network Automation solutions, including Cisco NSO.
Demonstrated experience delivering complex system integrations using APIs and middleware technologies.
Strong practical experience with Docker and Kubernetes.
Knowledge of virtualization technologies including VMware ESXi and KVM.
Advanced Python development skills, ideally within automation or infrastructure environments.
Experience with DevOps toolsets including Jenkins, Git, and Jira.
Solid understanding of NetDevOps principles and modern software delivery practices.
Experience working within and contributing to Agile development environments.
Understanding of product management and lifecycle processes for automation platforms.

Preferred Experience
Experience delivering automation solutions within large-scale enterprise, service provider, or data centre environments.
Exposure to multi-vendor networking environments and interoperability challenges.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a proactive approach to technical challenges.
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.
Previous experience leading technical teams or mentoring engineers.