Cisco

Director, AI Engineering

Cisco$250K — $362K *
Enterprise Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related field with 15+ years of software engineering experience (or Master's with 12+ years)
  • 5+ years of engineering management experience leading software and ML engineering teams
  • Proficient in Python, Java, C++, or modern object-oriented languages
  • Experience in building and scaling data-driven AI/ML systems and agentic architectures
  • Hands-on experience with LLMs, NLP, Generative AI, or Agentic AI architectures

Responsibilities

  • Spearhead end-to-end development of agentic AI solutions across the CX customer adoption and renewals portfolio
  • Lead architecture and build core platform to host Agentic solutions
  • Manage and mentor cross-functional teams of software, ML, and data engineers throughout the delivery lifecycle
  • Evaluate, select, and standardize tools, frameworks, and foundation model infrastructure across our portfolio
  • Partner with product management and business stakeholders to translate strategic requirements into production AI applications
  • Establish best practices for responsible AI, context engineering, and observable agent deployment

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company-matched contributions
  • Paid parental leave and short/long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible vacation time off without a defined limit for exempt employees
  • Option for 10 paid volunteer days per year
  • Accrued paid vacation and sick leave based on employment status
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/12/2026
Location: San Jose (Onsite)

No relocation will be provided
Meet the Team

The CX AI Incubation and Agent team builds breakthrough solutions across delivery intelligence, network automation, and edge computing for Cisco Customer Experience (CX) and our global customers. We partner across engineering, product, and design to develop scalable, responsible platforms leveraging Generative and Agentic AI. Join an inclusive, high-impact team pushing the boundaries of AI innovation to solve critical enterprise challenges.
Your Impact

As an engineering leader in Cisco CX, you will define and execute the technical strategy for AI solutions that transform customer adoption and renewals. You will lead high-performing engineering teams from concept to production, operationalizing autonomous agents, context engineering, and multi-agent orchestration platforms. In this role, you will combine deep technical architecture with business strategy to deliver production-grade AI systems at scale.
What You'll Do
  • Drive engineering Delivery: Spearhead end-to-end development of agentic AI solutions across the CX customer adoption and renewals portfolio.
  • Architecture and platform: Lead architecture and build core platform to host Agentic solutions.
  • Lead Engineering Teams: Manage and mentor cross-functional teams of software, ML, and data engineers and technical leaders through full lifecycle delivery.
  • Standardize Tech Stack: Evaluate, select, and standardize tools, frameworks, and foundation model infrastructure across the portfolio.
  • Align Cross-Functionally: Partner with product management and business stakeholders to translate strategic requirements into production AI applications.
  • Set Engineering Standards: Establish best practices for responsible AI, context engineering, and observable agent deployment.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related field with 15+ years of software engineering experience (or Master's degree with 12+ years).
  • 5+ years of engineering management experience leading software and ML engineering teams.
  • Experience programming in Python, Java, C++, or modern object-oriented languages.
  • Experience building and scaling data-driven AI/ML systems, AI-native applications, and AI agents, including agent harnesses and production-grade agentic architectures.
  • Experience building and deploying systems utilizing LLMs, NLP, Generative AI, or Agentic AI architectures.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or Machine Learning.
  • Experience architecting multi-agent orchestration pipelines and context engineering systems.
  • Experience applying AI solutions to enterprise customer success, adoption, or renewal workflows.
  • Proven track record of technical leadership and cross-functional execution in fast-paced environments.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to engage technical teams and executive business leaders.


About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
Learn more about Cisco
Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
NASDAQ

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