Principal Engineer - Network Switch SDK

Piper Companies is seeking a Principal Engineer – Network Switch SDK to support an innovative organization in the advanced hardware and AI infrastructure space for a hybrid permanent position based out of Saratoga, CA
. The Principal Engineer – Network Switch SDK will play a key role in shaping the next generation of high‑performance switching technology by developing the software foundation that bridges complex hardware with production‑ready networking platforms.

• Oversee the architecture and development of the SDK layers that interface directly with custom switch hardware.
• Create and refine APIs enabling key dataplane operations such as forwarding, ACL handling, QoS functions, and telemetry workflows.
• Partner with silicon and architecture teams to translate chip‑level designs into programmable, scalable software abstractions.
• Drive integration efforts with modern network operating systems, including SONiC or similar environments.
• Support early hardware bring‑up and validation efforts across simulation, emulation, and initial silicon platforms.

• 10+ years of experience developing firmware, SDKs, or low‑level software for networking ASICs or embedded switching platforms.
• Strong command of C/C++ in Linux environments, with experience optimizing performance in system‑level networking code.
• Background in L2/L3 technologies, routing protocols, multicast, and modern data center networking concepts.
• Experience working with ACL pipelines, QoS frameworks, TCAM‑based lookups, and high‑speed packet‑processing systems.
• Prior exposure to NOS environments (such as SONiC) and familiarity with simulation models or RTL‑based validation tools.

Salary Range: $255,000-$275,000/year

Comprehensive Benefits:
Medical, Dental, Vision, sick leave if required by law, and 401K

This job opens for applications on 3/6/26. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.