Senior Software Engineer, Layer1

About the role

Layer1 software ensures physical connectivity where network packets meet external media. The role covers full software ownership from definition through deployment. Collaboration spans optics, hardware, and customer support teams. You will define, implement, and maintain the software that drives the physical transmission of network traffic across diverse media. This position requires deep ownership of the entire software lifecycle in a fast-paced environment. You will partner closely with cross-functional groups to align technical solutions with product and customer needs. Success in this role depends on your ability to translate requirements into robust software that operates reliably at the edge of the network. Your work will directly impact the performance and stability of Arista's physical infrastructure.

Key facts

What you'll do

Control software defines and delivers new Layer1 capabilities for varied connectivity, from common to long reach fiber, in coordination with hardware teams.

Instrumentation and telemetry capture physical link metrics so operators can monitor health and resolve issues in deployed networks.

Feature development uses C, C++, and Python, with specifications reviewed and contributed to, while automated tests validate behavior before release.

Hardware and manufacturing teams coordinate to introduce physical components such as Phys and Transceivers into market-ready products.

Troubleshooting in live customer environments is handled with Customer Support Engineers to analyze, mitigate, and resolve problems.

Feedback from System Test Engineers drives fixes for test-identified issues, improving reliability and clarity.

You will analyze complex requirements and translate them into software design documents that guide implementation.

Performance optimization of data paths will be a core responsibility to ensure the software meets stringent latency and throughput targets.

You will participate in code reviews to uphold code quality standards and share knowledge across the engineering organization.

Working closely with Product Managers, you will prioritize backlog items to ensure the team delivers value in each release cycle.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering is required.

At least 8 years of experience is required.

Expert knowledge of C or C++ and Python is required.

Knowledge of UNIX or Linux is required.

Experience with physical layer protocols and hardware interfaces is essential.

Strong debugging skills for low-level software issues are mandatory.

The ability to work independently and as part of a distributed team is required.

Clear written and verbal communication skills are required to collaborate with global stakeholders.

Nice to have

Knowledge of networking standards and protocols relevant to physical media is preferred.

Experience with automated testing frameworks for hardware and software validation is preferred.

Understanding of telemetry and data collection frameworks is preferred.

Familiarity with Agile development practices and sprint ceremonies is preferred.

Practical notes

This role operates under the #LI-SZ1 visa requirement.

The position is based in Poland with remote engagement.

Travel may be required.

Team context centers on Layer1 hardware and software.

Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

Physical layer software connects packets to the outside world through cables and optics.

The role involves full software ownership from definition through deployment and customer interaction.

Arista emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning for engineers.

Questions to ask

Worth asking in any interview: how the team measures success, who the role works with daily, what the onboarding looks like, and what the company is trying to achieve this year. Asking what past hires did well is a strong final question. Keep the list short and pick the questions that matter most to you.

Career growth

Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.

About the company

Arista Networks is hiring for Senior Software Engineer, Layer1. Poland

Remote, pl.