Cisco

Leader, Hardware Engineering

Cisco$194K — $285K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in Mechanical, Thermal, or Chemical Engineering or a related field
  • 10+ years of experience in designing and testing thermal solutions for electronic systems
  • Extensive knowledge of advanced air-cooling technologies
  • Experience with liquid and immersion cooling
  • Demonstrated experience in people leadership

Responsibilities

  • Lead a global team of thermal component engineers
  • Define and execute a thermal technology roadmap with partners
  • Drive ecosystem readiness for advanced cooling technologies
  • Research innovative thermal cooling solutions
  • Establish an end-to-end quality strategy for thermal components
  • Analyze thermal performance tradeoffs using experimental data
  • Define test plans for mechanical and manufacturing adaptability

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company matching
  • Paid parental leave
  • Short and long-term disability coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Generous paid time off including holidays and flexible vacation options
  • Paid volunteer days
  • Annual bonuses for non-sales roles
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/29/2026
This position will be on-site in San Jose, CA

Your Impact

The Component Quality and Technology Organization is a hub of innovation. You will collaborate extensively with Business Units, Product Operations, Manufacturing, Planning, and Supplier Management. You will also represent Cisco in external industry forums, conferences, and academic partnerships to adopt cutting-edge technologies that keep Cisco ahead of the competition.

  • Strategic Leadership: Lead a global team of thermal component engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, mentorship, and career development.
  • Technology Roadmap: Partner with microelectronics packaging suppliers, thermal interface material (TIM) vendors, and internal stakeholders to define and execute a system-wide thermal technology roadmap.
  • Ecosystem Readiness: Drive supply ecosystem readiness for advanced cooling technologies, including liquid and immersion cooling.
  • Innovation & Strategy: Investigate innovative, large-scale thermal cooling solutions. Develop commodity and supplier strategies based on industry sensing, quality roadmaps, and rigorous supplier assessments.
  • Quality Excellence: Establish and maintain an end-to-end quality strategy for all thermal components.
  • Technical Analysis: Analyze thermal performance tradeoffs (substrate, underfill, TIM, heat spreaders) and chip thermal gradients using experimental test data.
  • Validation & Qualification: Define test plans and qualification requirements for mechanical and manufacturing adaptability (pumps, heat pipes, vapor chambers, heat sinks, liquid cooling).
  • Industry Influence: Engage with ODMs and component vendors, participate in industry consortia, and collaborate with academia to influence Cisco's position as an industry leader.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • BS in Mechanical, Thermal, or Chemical Engineering or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in the design, simulation, testing of thermal solutions for electronic devices and systems.
  • Extensive experience with advanced air-cooling technologies (vapor chambers, remote heat sinks, TIM, fan trays).
  • Experience with liquid cooling and/or immersion cooling.
  • Proven people leadership experience.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • MS or PhD in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering or a related field.
  • 15+ years of relevant experience in microelectronics thermal cooling; 10+ years of people leadership experience.
  • Expertise in Thermal Interface Material (TIM) conductivity testing procedures and microelectronics packaging manufacturing processes.

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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