Cisco

Distinguished Hardware Security Engineer Hybrid/Remote

Cisco • $252K — $321K *
US-AnywhereRemote in North Carolina, US
Telecommunications & Hardware
11 - 15 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS/MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
  • 15+ years of experience in hardware systems design, silicon security, or embedded architecture.
  • Proven track record as a Distinguished Engineer, Fellow, Chief Architect, or senior technical leader.
  • Deep knowledge of complex networking systems and hardware systems design.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of applied cryptography and platform security measures.

Responsibilities

  • Set security standards and technical direction for hardware and embedded software.
  • Architect chip-level and platform-level roots of trust for secure systems.
  • Advise engineering leaders on embedded security and technical trade-offs.
  • Ensure compliance with emerging regulations like the EU Cyber Resilience Act.
  • Collaborate with hyperscaler customers to align security needs with roadmaps.
  • Represent Cisco in industry standards bodies shaping hardware security.
  • Mentor upcoming hardware security architects within the organization.

Benefits

  • Preferred hybrid working model with options for remote work.
  • Engagement in cutting-edge security technologies and architectures.
  • Opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders and standards bodies.
  • Mentorship opportunities to influence the next generation of professionals.
  • Participation in technology-driven initiatives shaping the future of security.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 11/19/2026
This is a preferred hybrid role based in Raleigh, NC; San Jose, CA; or other Cisco hubs. US remote is also an option. Some travel is required.

Your Impact

This is Cisco's principal authority role for hardware security - spanning trustworthy systems, embedded security, secure enclaves, and silicon roots of trust. You'll set the foundational hardware security roadmap across Cisco's networking, routing, switching, optical, data center, AI systems, and cloud infrastructure portfolio, architecting immutable roots of trust, platform firmware resiliency, cryptographic device identity, and anti-tamper protections. You'll do it in close partnership with business unit engineering leaders, ASIC architects, supply chain executives, and the technical leadership at our largest hyperscale and webscale customers. You'll also represent Cisco's voice in the global standards consortia that define the industry.

  • Set the security standards, requirements, and technical direction that secure the hardware and embedded software across Cisco's entire product portfolio.
  • Architect chip- and platform-level roots of trust - including platform firmware resiliency, cryptographic device identity, and anti-tamper protections - as the building blocks of secure-by-design systems.
  • Advise business unit engineering leaders and executives on embedded security decisions, translating deep technical trade-offs into clear business outcomes.
  • Ensure Cisco stays ahead of emerging regulation, including the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), US federal executive orders, and Common Criteria / CNSA mandates.
  • Work directly with hyperscaler and cloud-scale customers' technical leadership to translate their security requirements into Cisco's silicon and system roadmaps.
  • Represent Cisco in the industry standards bodies that shape the field, contributing to or spearheading work in groups such as OCP Security, TCG, DMTF, GlobalPlatform, IEEE, or NIST.
  • Mentor the next generation of hardware security architects and technical leaders, building depth and resilience across the organization.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education & Experience: BS/MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, with 15+ years of experience in hardware systems design, silicon security, or embedded architecture.
  • Distinguished Technical Leadership: A track record as a Distinguished Engineer, Fellow, Chief Architect, or senior technical leader driving hardware security strategy at a top-tier networking, semiconductor, or hyperscale cloud company.
  • Hardware Systems & Networking Depth: Deep knowledge of complex networking systems (terabit switches, edge/core routers, security appliances, optical transceivers), board-level design, FPGA/ASIC development, and system-level cost/performance trade-offs, with direct experience across design, development, manufacturing, and product lifecycle management.
  • Applied Cryptography & Platform Security: Demonstrated knowledge of applied cryptography, PKI architectures, key management, and hardware security countermeasures such as side-channel (DPA/SPA) and fault-injection mitigations.
  • Multi-Functional & Executive Communication: Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to move fluidly between low-level silicon and firmware detail and executive-level strategy.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Standards & Consortia Contributions: Active contribution to, or leadership within, one or more hardware-security-focused industry standards groups such as OCP Security, TCG (TPM, DICE, CyRes), DMTF (SPDM), GlobalPlatform, FIDO Alliance, RISC-V Security, IEEE, NIST, or ETSI.
  • Advanced Platform Security: Hands-on experience with post-quantum cryptography, NIST SP 800-193 platform resiliency, secure enclave design, physical anti-tamper mechanisms, or authenticated lifecycle management.
  • Regulatory & Certification Leadership: Experience leading products through security certification and regulatory compliance programs such as FIPS 140-3, Common Criteria, CNSA, or PSA Certified.
  • Hardware Security Assessments: Experience conducting hardware security assessments, penetration testing, and/or side-channel resiliency testing against hardware and firmware targets.


S&TO

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
Telecommunications & Hardware
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
NASDAQ
CSCO
* Ladders Estimates

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