Cisco

Hardware Engineering Program Manager

Cisco$154K — $225K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (electrical, industrial, mechanical) or physics + 7 years in technical hardware program management.
  • Experience in managing full program lifecycles, including budgets and schedules.
  • Advanced spreadsheet management skills for data modeling and visualization.
  • Proficiency in action tracking and organizational communication for executive updates.
  • Experience managing cross-functional dependencies in engineering contexts with a focus on rapid product delivery.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the end-to-end development of Data Center Switching hardware programs from concept to release.
  • Orchestrate complex programs by aligning hardware, software, and product management teams for cohesive delivery.
  • Proactively monitor program health and resolve risks and dependencies.
  • Drive continuous improvements and integrate automation and AI tools for efficiency.
  • Manage budgets and resource allocation to ensure projects are on track.
  • Facilitate collaboration between internal teams and external partners with clear status updates.
  • Independently determine effective approaches to project work with minimal guidance.

Benefits

  • Onsite work at the San Jose, CA office.
  • Opportunities for professional growth through technical program development.
  • Engagement with cutting-edge hardware and AI technology.
  • Collaborative environment involving multiple technical disciplines.
  • Focus on continuous improvement and efficiency in project management.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/12/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

This role requires the employee to work onsite at the San Jose, CA office location.

Your Impact:
  • Lead end-to-end Data Center Switching hardware program development from initial concept through customer release, defining clear priorities, breakthroughs, and comprehensive execution plans.
  • Orchestrate complex, multi-functional programs by aligning hardware and software engineering, product management, operations and other multi-functional teams to ensure cohesive delivery.
  • Proactively monitor program health, identify risks and dependencies, and drive timely issue resolution through actionable recommendations to partners.
  • Champion continuous process improvements, governance frameworks, and the integration of automation and AI-enabled tools to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Manage financial integrity and resource allocation, ensuring that budgets are tracked accurately and projects remain within scope and on schedule.
  • Facilitate seamless collaboration between internal teams, manufacturing partners, and external suppliers while providing transparent status updates to leadership.
  • Work independently but receive minimal guidance and direction from leader then determine the best approach to accomplish work.


Minimum qualification:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering such as electrical, industrial or mechanical or physics + 7 years of related experience in technical hardware program/project management or hardware/product development.
  • Experience handling end-end programs including budget oversight, schedule management, and breakthrough tracking.
  • Experience in advanced spreadsheet management, including the use of data modeling and visualization to track project metrics.
  • Experience in action tracking, executive updates, dashboards and organizational communications.
  • Experience with managing cross-functional dependencies in engineering environments with focus on time-to-market.


Preferred qualification:
  • Experience working in non-program management NPI development roles.
  • In-depth knowledge of hardware manufacturing environments and production workflows.
  • Background in supply chain operations or procurement strategies for complex hardware programs.
  • Experience in utilizing Codex and other AI tools/agents for productivity enhancements.
  • Experience applying Jira, Confluence and SharePoint to track project dependencies, risks, and issue resolution.
  • Demonstrated experience with Design Verification Testing (DVT) processes within hardware development lifecycles.
  • Proven ability to navigate and influence outcomes in a highly matrixed, globally distributed organization.

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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