Cisco

Principal Engineer - Cisco AI Software and Platform

Cisco$150K — $200K *
Information Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 15+ years, Master's with 12+ years, or Ph.D. with 8+ years in Software Engineering/System Architecture.
  • 5+ years in core AI/ML project experience.
  • Expertise in Generative AI applications using RAG, Finetuning, and Agentic AI.
  • Proficiency in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP, and containerization tools such as Docker.
  • Strong programming skills in Python, Java, Go, or Scala.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development of advanced AI/ML technologies for Cisco products.
  • Architect and design next-generation generative AI solutions.
  • Validate and deploy innovative AI solutions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams in building AI infrastructures.
  • Stay up-to-date with AI advancements to foster innovation.
  • Partner with diverse teams to create a cohesive experience platform.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) plan with Cisco matching contribution.
  • Generous vacation and sick leave policies, including flexible vacation time off.
  • Paid time off to volunteer, with 80 hours dedicated per year.
  • Numerous well-being offerings and support.
Full Job Description
Application window open until further notice.

NOTE: Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Meet the Team

Cisco's AI Software and Platform (AISP) organization is one of the company's fastest-growing and most innovative teams, crafting a first-in-class digital experience for our customers and partners everywhere they connect with Cisco. We are at the epicenter of developing modern, cloud-native technologies that allow us to stay agile and adaptable in a constantly evolving market. Pioneers in our field, AISP enables Cisco product teams, customers and partners to maximize value with a simple, unified Cisco AI experience, driving accelerated time to impact. Join us and be a part of this exciting, transformative journey.
Your Impact

As a Principal in the AI/ML area of AISP, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Cisco's AI strategies.
  • Lead the development of cutting-edge AI/ML technologies for Cisco products and solutions.
  • Architect, design, validate, and deploy next-generation generative AI solutions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including AI/ML Product and Data Science Research teams, to build AI infrastructures and solutions.
  • Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI and foster a culture of innovation.
  • Partner with developers, UX designers, and non-technical stakeholders to create a unified experience platform.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree with 15+ years of Software Engineering and System Architecture experience, or Master's with 12+ years, or Ph.D. with 8+ years.
  • 5+ years of experience working on core AI/ML projects.
  • Expertise in building Generative AI applications using RAG, Finetuning, and Agentic AI.
  • Proficiency with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization tools like Docker.
  • Strong programming skills in Python, Java, Go, or Scala.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong personal network across the generative AI/ML industry and ecosystem.
  • Deep understanding of industry trends and business needs to drive technology innovation and execution.
#WeAreCisco where every individual brings their unique skills and perspectives together to pursue our purpose of powering an inclusive future for all.

Our passion is connection-we celebrate our employees' diverse set of backgrounds and focus on unlocking potential. Cisconians often experience one company, many careers where learning and development are encouraged and supported at every stage. Our technology, tools, and culture pioneered hybrid work trends, allowing all to not only give their best, but be their best.

We understand our outstanding opportunity to bring communities together and at the heart of that is our people. One-third of Cisconians collaborate in our 30 employee resource organizations, called Inclusive Communities, to connect, foster belonging, learn to be informed allies, and make a difference. Dedicated paid time off to volunteer-80 hours each year-allows us to give back to causes we are passionate about, and nearly 86% do!

Our purpose, driven by our people, is what makes us the worldwide leader in technology that powers the internet. Helping our customers reimagine their applications, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals is what we do best. We ensure that every step we take is a step towards a more inclusive future for all. Take your next step and be you, with us!
#WeAreCisco #CiscoAIJobs

Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada:

When available, the salary range posted for this position reflects the projected hiring range for new hire, full-time salaries in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including equity or benefits. For non-sales roles the hiring ranges reflect base salary only; employees are also eligible to receive annual bonuses. Hiring ranges for sales positions include base and incentive compensation target. Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location and additional factors, including but not limited to skillset, experience, and relevant education, certifications, or training. Applicants may not be eligible for the full salary range based on their U.S. or Canada hiring location. The recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees have to quality medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, short and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance and numerous wellbeing offerings.

Employees receive up to twelve paid holidays per calendar year, which includes one floating holiday (for non-exempt employees), plus a day off for their birthday. Non-Exempt new hires accrue up to 16 days of vacation time off each year, at a rate of 4.92 hours per pay period. Exempt new hires participate in Cisco's flexible Vacation Time Off policy, which does not place a defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use, but is subject to availability and some business limitations. All new hires are eligible for Sick Time Off subject to Cisco's Sick Time Off Policy and will have eighty (80) hours of sick time off provided on their hire date and on January 1st of each year thereafter. Up to 80 hours of unused sick time will be carried forward from one calendar year to the next such that the maximum number of sick time hours an employee may have available is 160 hours. Employees in Illinois have a unique time off program designed specifically with local requirements in mind. All employees also have access to paid time away to deal with critical or emergency issues. We offer additional paid time to volunteer and give back to the community.

Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components. For quota-based incentive pay, Cisco typically pays as follows:

.75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;

1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;

1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%; and once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.

For non-quota-based sales performance elements such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may pay up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.

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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