Cisco

Software Engineering Technical Leader, Backend (Hybrid)

Cisco$214K — $309K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in STEM with extensive related experience (15+ years for Bachelor's, 12+ for Master's, 8+ for PhD)
  • 10+ years in architecting and scaling backend platforms in production
  • 10+ years of programming experience using Python and/or Go
  • Experience with major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) focused on enterprise-grade reliability
  • Proficiency in containerization technologies and complex microservices architectures

Responsibilities

  • Lead large-scale engineering projects with enterprise-wide impact
  • Identify and resolve complex technical challenges affecting business strategy
  • Develop innovative strategies to enhance product value and platform performance
  • Act as a subject matter expert on advanced technical issues
  • Utilize independent judgment for complex system design methods

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in a collaborative hybrid environment
  • Access to cutting-edge technologies in AI and backend systems
  • Potential for career advancement in a leading tech company
  • Chance to influence cross-functional teams and best practices
  • Work on projects that impact the direction of the business
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 08/24/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

This is a hybrid role based out of Cisco's San Jose office.

Your Impact

As a Technical lead, you will be responsible for leading major business projects that impact the entire function. You will act independently to define architectural strategies, solve unique and highly complex problems of substantial significance, and deliver innovative solutions that directly influence the direction of our business. You will serve as a key resource for the organization, applying deep technical expertise to ensure our AI platform remains at the forefront of the industry.

  • Lead major, large-scale engineering projects with enterprise-wide impact, defining the architectural roadmap for Cisco's AI-powered backend systems.


  • Proactively identify and resolve highly complex technical challenges that impact the strategic direction and resource allocation of the business.


  • Develop and implement innovative strategies that enhance product value for customers and clients, setting new standards for platform reliability and performance.


  • Act as a subject matter expert, providing guidance on advanced technical issues and influencing cross-functional leaders to adopt best practices.


  • Utilize independent judgment to determine methods and techniques for complex system design, ensuring alignment with long-term organizational objectives.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM + 15 years of related experience, or Master's degree in STEM + 12 years of related experience, or PhD in STEM + 8 years of related experience.


  • 10+ years of hands-on experience architecting and scaling backend platforms in a production environment.


  • 10+ years of professional programming experience using Python and/or Go.


  • Experience deploying and managing services on major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) with a focus on enterprise-grade reliability.


  • Proficiency in containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and complex microservices architectures.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Proven track record of integrating and building with Generative AI technologies and LLM frameworks at scale.


  • Deep, comprehensive understanding of modern AI tools, ML methodologies, and complex data pipelines.


  • Demonstrated ability to drive technology innovation by translating emerging industry trends into scalable, actionable backend execution.


  • Exceptional ability to design highly reliable, maintainable, and distributed systems that serve as the foundation for global products.


  • Experience leading cross-functional platform initiatives and mentoring senior engineering staff to build organizational capability.


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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Cisco

  • Cisco
    Site Reliability Engineer
    $128K — $184K *
    San Jose, CA 95123 (Santa Clara County)
    Information Technology
    In-Person
  • Cisco
    Site Reliability Engineer
    $128K — $184K *
    Richardson, TX 75080 (Dallas County)
    Information Technology
    In-Person
  • Cisco
    Site Reliability Engineer
    $128K — $184K *
    Santa Clara, CA 95051 (Santa Clara County)
    Information Technology
    In-Person
  • Cisco
    Site Reliability Engineer
    $128K — $184K *
    Milpitas, CA 95035 (Santa Clara County)
    Information Technology
    In-Person
  • Cisco
    Site Reliability Engineer
    $128K — $184K *
    Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 (Durham County)
    Information Technology
    In-Person

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar Software Engineering Technical Leader, Backend (Hybrid) jobs: