Engineer IV, System validation Test

Role Overview: We are seeking a skilled and motivated QA Network Test Engineer to validate complex networking features and ensure the high quality and reliability of our networking products. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in L2 and L3 networking protocols and experience in both manual and automated testing in a networking domain. Key Responsibilities: Test Planning & Execution: Design, develop, and execute comprehensive test plans and test cases for L2/L3 networking protocols and features. Protocol Testing: Validate functionality, performance, scalability, and interoperability of protocols, including: L2: VLANs L3: IPv4/IPv6 forwarding, routing protocols. Network Services: TCP/IP suite, VPN (IPsec), NAT, DHCP, SNMP. Automation: Develop and maintain Python automation scripts for functional, regression, and performance testing. Debugging & Analysis: Analyze test results, identify, document, and track software defects, and work closely with development teams to resolve issues. Tools Usage: Utilize industry-standard traffic generators (Ixia, Spirent) and packet analyzers (Wireshark) for benchmarking, data plane testing, and troubleshooting. Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product management and development, to understand requirements and implement use cases in the automated test framework. Process Improvement: Champion continuous improvement in QA methodologies and integrate test automation with CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins). Required Skills and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electronics, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience. 6 to 8 years of hands-on experience in manual and automated testing of networking products. Deep understanding and hands-on experience working with L2 and L3 networking protocols. Proficiency in Python scripting for test automation. Experience with networking test tools such as Ixia, Spirent, or Wireshark. Familiarity with Linux/Unix environments and command-line operations. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills across data, control, and management planes. Excellent communication skills for documenting test plans, results, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with embedded networking systems or network appliances. Relevant professional certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, or equivalent are an advantage. Company Statement/Values: At NETGEAR, we are on a mission to unleash the full potential of connectivity with intelligent solutions that delight and protect. We turn ideas into innovative networking products that connect people, power businesses, and advance the way we live. We're a performance-driven, talented and connected team that's committed to delivering world-class products for our customers. As a company, we value our employees as the most essential building blocks of our success. And as teammates, we commit to taking our work to the Next Gear by living our values: we Dare to Transform the future, Connect and Delight our customers, Communicate Courageously with each other and collaborate to Win It Together . You’ll find our values woven through our processes, present in our decisions, and celebrated throughout our culture. We strive to attract top talent and create a great workplace where people feel engaged, inspired, challenged, proud and respected. If you are creative, forward-thinking, passionate about technology and are looking for a rewarding career to make an impact, then you've got what it takes to succeed at NETGEAR. Join our network and help us shape the future of connectivity. NETGEAR hires based on merit. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.