Lead QA Engineer-L2/L3 Networking

We are looking for a Senior/Lead QA Engineer with deep expertise in Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching technologies to lead the validation of enterprise and carrier-grade networking products. This role requires a blend of technical depth, and strategic thinking. The candidate will own the QA strategy, guide a team of engineers, collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, and ensure world-class quality and reliability of switching solutions.

•Define QA strategy, scope, and processes for Layer 2/Layer 3 switching features.

•Lead a team of QA engineers in test planning, execution, automation, and defect tracking.

•Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance in debugging and protocol analysis.

•Validate advanced Layer 2 features: VLANs (802.1Q/802.1ad), STP/RSTP/MSTP, LLDP, LACP, IGMP snooping, storm control, QoS.

•Validate advanced Layer 3 features: IPv4/IPv6 forwarding, routing protocols (OSPF, BGP, RIP, IS-IS), VRRP, ECMP, multicast (IGMP, PIM). Drive scalability, convergence, high availability, and failover testing under stress conditions.

•Utilize industry-standard traffic generators (Ixia, Spirent) and packet analyzers (Wireshark, tcpdump) for benchmarking and troubleshooting.

•Collaborate with chipset vendors, product management, and development teams to resolve complex issues and optimize features.

•Provide detailed test reports, release readiness assessments, and risk analysis to stakeholders.

•Champion continuous improvement in QA methodologies, tools, and infrastructure.

•Own automation development (Python, Pytest) and integrate with CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins).

•5+ years of experience in networking QA.

•Strong understanding of Ethernet switching and IP routing protocols (L2/L3).

•Proven expertise in traffic generation and analysis tools (Ixia, Spirent, Wireshark).

•Strong hands-on experience in network automation (Python / Pytest).

•Familiarity with Linux networking stack, FRRouting/Quagga, and virtualization labs (EVE-NG/GNS3).

•Experience in large-scale test planning, regression automation, and release validation.

•Excellent debugging skills across data plane, control plane, and management plane. 

•Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electronics, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications

•Experience in cloud-managed networks.

•Exposure to Netconf/REST APIs, SNMP, and telemetry frameworks.

•Certifications: CCNP/CCIE, JNCIP/JNCIE, or equivalent advanced networking certs.

•Prior experience in leading QA strategy for enterprise/campus/carrier switching.

•Strong leadership and mentoring ability.

•Excellent communication and stakeholder management.

•Proactive in identifying risks and driving closure across teams.

•Passion for quality, reliability, and customer-focused testing.