Cisco

Principal Hardware Engineer

Cisco • $220K — $291K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 15+ years or Master's with 12+ years or PhD with 8+ years of related experience.
  • 10+ years' experience in high-density electro-mechanical or optoelectronic rack design.
  • Proficient in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or Inventor) for rack layout design.
  • Knowledge of AC/DC power distribution and thermal management within racks.
  • Proven experience managing engineering teams.

Responsibilities

  • Act as the primary technical authority for integrated, rack-mounted quantum systems.
  • Unify engineering outputs into a cohesive and manufacturable rack architecture.
  • Serve as a liaison between the research team and program management.
  • Architect and design scalable rack solutions integrating various subsystems.
  • Lead design, integration, and deployment of quantum systems for various environments.
  • Ensure compliance with global electrical and safety standards.
  • Optimize system layouts for performance, reliability, and serviceability.

Benefits

  • Flexible work environment with opportunities for remote work.
  • Access to cutting-edge quantum technology and research.
  • Collaborative team culture with a focus on innovation.
  • Professional development and training programs.
  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 10/29/2026
Your Impact

Cisco Quantum Research is seeking a skilled Principal Hardware Engineer to support our Quantum Experimental Team in a role that is central to the physical realization of Cisco's deployable quantum hardware platforms.
  • You act as the primary technical authority responsible for delivering integrated, rack-mounted quantum systems directly to customer data centers and research facilities, directly driving customer satisfaction and site-acceptance timeline success.
  • You will unify disparate engineering domain outputs-including precision control electronics, RF/microwave distribution, thermal management, optical/photonic routing, and fiber management-into a cohesive, manufacturable, and serviceable rack architecture.
  • You will serve as a critical link between the scientific research team and the program management function, ensuring that hardware assembly and test activities are performed with precision.
  • Architect scalable, manufacturable rack solutions by integrating electrical, RF/microwave, thermal, optical, and fiber-optic subsystems.
  • Lead the design, integration, and deployment of rack-level quantum systems for customer data centers and research environments, including EIA-310-compliant rack infrastructure, PDUs, UPS integration, grounding, electrical isolation, thermal management, and environmental monitoring systems.
  • Ensure compliance with global electrical and safety standards, including UL, CE, and IEC requirements.
  • Optimize system layouts for performance, reliability, serviceability, and efficient cable and fiber management.
  • Collaborate with scientists and engineers to transition laboratory technologies into robust, deployable hardware platforms.
  • Partner with program management to ensure principled execution of assembly, integration, testing, and site acceptance activities.
  • Establish and improve assembly and test processes to support the scaling and delivery of Cisco's quantum computing hardware.
  • Demonstrates outstanding attention to detail and a dedication to quality by consistently producing accurate laboratory records and experimental results.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelors + 15 years of related experience, or Masters + 12 years of related experience, or PhD + 8 years of related experience, or equivalent related work experience.
  • 10+ years experience designing, integrating, and deploying high-density electro-mechanical, optoelectronic, or telecom rack.
  • Experience with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or Inventor) with experience in rack layout design (EIA-310 standard), structural enclosures, and cable management routing.
  • Experience with AC/DC power distribution (PDUs, grounding schemes, safety isolation), thermal/airflow management inside enclosed racks, and environmental interlocks.
  • Experience managing a team of engineers.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience defining and performing Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), including authoring site-readiness specifications for enterprise or research customer facilities.
  • Experience reading, interpreting, and producing engineering drawings, schematics, and assembly procedures, with demonstrated ability to provide structured design feedback based on assembly and test findings

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
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