Cisco

Security Engineer I (Full Time) - United States

Cisco$94K — $140K *
Information Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field (completed within the last 3 years or soon to finish)
  • Foundational knowledge of security engineering, software development, and AI/ML through education or internships
  • Working knowledge of Python with the capability to write and test basic scripts
  • Exposure to coursework or projects demonstrating applied AI/ML security experience

Responsibilities

  • Execute routine security engineering assignments following detailed guidance
  • Support vulnerability assessments and security code reviews
  • Assist in developing threat models for AI-native features
  • Conduct defined adversarial tests and document findings
  • Contribute to basic Python tooling and automated security checks
  • Support human oversight controls for AI systems and data protection
  • Communicate findings and participate in security design reviews

Benefits

  • Access to ongoing training and development opportunities
  • Dynamic work environment that encourages innovation
  • Collaboration with a team focused on cutting-edge AI security
  • Participation in incident response and security design activities
  • Potential career paths within a leading tech organization
Full Job Description
Please note this posting is to advertise potential job opportunities. This exact role may not be open today but could open in the near future. When you apply, a Cisco representative may contact you directly if a relevant position opens.

Your Impact

An early-career Security Engineer supports applied security research and engineering that advances how AI is built and used securely across Cisco. Under guidance, you'll perform routine security assignments, run defined tests and experiments, contribute to basic security tooling, and document evidence and findings. Additionally, you'll apply established Cisco Secure Development Lifecycle, security, and responsible-AI practices to help engineering teams identify and reduce risk.

  • Executes routine, well-defined security engineering assignments using established practices and procedures with detailed guidance.


  • Supports vulnerability and risk assessments, security code reviews, validation testing, remediation, and security-hardening activities.


  • Assists with threat models for AI-native features such as RAG, tool use, agentic workflows, and MCP integrations, including prompt injection, data poisoning, excessive agency, and supply-chain risks.


  • Runs defined adversarial tests and evaluations, records evidence and results, and escalates complex or unexpected findings.


  • Contributes basic Python tooling, evaluation cases, guardrails, and automated security checks under review, including integration into Secure Development Lifecycle and CI/CD workflows.


  • Supports data-protection and human-oversight controls for AI systems, including sensitive-data handling, review, approval, and accountability.


  • Contributes to threat research, reusable patterns, and technical write-ups; communicates findings and participates in security design reviews and incident-response activities.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • A Bachelor's degree (completed within the past 3 years or expected to be completed within the next 12 months).


  • Qualifying education and work experience should be in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field.


  • Foundational knowledge of security engineering, software development, AI/ML, or applied research gained through education, internships, projects, or equivalent practical work.


  • Working knowledge of Python and the ability to develop and test basic scripts.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Varies based on team and business needs; in addition to Minimum Qualifications.


  • Coursework, projects, or a portfolio demonstrating applied experience in software, product, or AI/ML security.


  • Familiarity with secure software development, vulnerability management, threat modeling, adversarial testing, or AI security evaluations.


  • Familiarity with LLM security risks and frameworks, including prompt injection, RAG and agentic-system risks, OWASP LLM/Agentic Top 10, MITRE ATLAS, or NIST AI RMF.


  • Exposure to AI red-team or evaluation tooling, such as Cisco AI Defense or NVIDIA's Garak, and related CI/CD, MCP, or AI development workflows.


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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