Cisco

Nobody tells you where to draw the line or what not to do, as long as you get the job done. You will have sufficient time to explore any relevant technology and get your hands dirty. Cisco Bangalore has state-of-the-art lab facilities and ample, regular in-house training options. From a hardware design standpoint, we are given opportunities on par with what happens at San Jose, maybe with a 1-2Q delay, but good work does eventually reach our shores. The management is transparent top-down, and recognitions are promptly awarded where due. Pay is on merit, and merit is greatly valued with limited scope for internal politics and cronyism. Overall, a great place to be in.

Sometimes you will doubt hardware's relevance in Cisco's long-term 'No. 1 IT company' strategy. Market dynamics change pretty fast, especially in the Service Provider world.