Cisco

Software Quality Engineering Manager

Cisco$166K — $238K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in software quality assurance or related fields
  • Proven leadership experience overseeing teams
  • Relevant bachelor's, master's, or PhD degree with associated experience
  • Proficient in testing desktop and mobile applications using automation frameworks
  • Skilled in developing QA strategies and validation processes for enterprise software
  • Knowledgeable about QA automation methodologies and CI/CD environments

Responsibilities

  • Lead the QA strategy for Cisco Secure Client across platforms
  • Drive adoption of AI-enabled testing frameworks and tools
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align quality goals
  • Mentor QA engineers in automation and continuous improvement
  • Advocate for QA best practices and responsible AI integration

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with Cisco matching contributions
  • Flexible paid time off policies including personal wellness days
  • Paid parental leave and disability coverage
  • Access to Cisco restricted stock units for eligible employees
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 10/31/2026This is a hybrid role located in Boxborough, Massachusetts. Must be able to go into the office 3-4 days a week.

Meet the Team


The Cisco Secure Client Quality Assurance team delivers secure, reliable, and high-quality endpoint security solutions across desktop and mobile platforms. The team plays a critical role in Cisco's broader security portfolio by ensuring products meet the highest standards for performance, usability, and protection for enterprise customers worldwide. Comprised of experienced QA engineers and automation specialists with expertise in cybersecurity, AI-driven testing, and software validation, the team operates in a highly collaborative and technically focused environment. Team members work closely with engineering, product management, and support organizations to influence product quality throughout the development lifecycle. What makes this team exciting is the opportunity to innovate with AI-powered testing technologies that directly improve how users connect and work securely at scale.

Your Impact

Lead the quality assurance strategy and execution for Cisco Secure Client across desktop and mobile platforms to improve product security, reliability, and customer trust. Drive the adoption of AI-enabled testing frameworks, automation tools, and validation methodologies to enhance product quality and accelerate release confidence. Collaborate with engineering, product management, support, and cross-functional stakeholders to align quality goals with customer needs and business priorities. Mentor QA engineers and guide technical excellence across automation, AI/ML validation, and continuous improvement initiatives. Represent the QA organization as a trusted partner and advocate for quality best practices, responsible AI integration, and scalable endpoint security solutions.

Minimum Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in software quality assurance, cybersecurity, cloud, IT, or related technical fields
  • Leadership experience - leading one or more teams.
  • Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of related experience, Master's degree with 8+ years of related experience, or PhD with 5+ years of related experience
  • Experience testing desktop and mobile applications, including automation frameworks and AI/ML-based testing tools
  • Experience developing QA strategies, test plans, and validation processes for enterprise software products
  • Experience with QA automation methodologies, performance testing, defect tracking, and CI/CD environments

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of AI, machine learning, endpoint security, networking, identity, and zero trust technologies
  • Experience supporting endpoint security products and platforms at enterprise scale
  • Ability to influence cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders on QA strategy and AI-enabled testing initiatives
  • Experience providing technical guidance on AI integration, automation, and quality assurance best practices
  • Understanding of AI model validation, security compliance requirements, and customer quality expectations


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

The starting salary range posted for this position is $166,300.00 to $238,300.00 and reflects the projected salary range for new hires in this position in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including incentive compensation*, equity, or benefits.

Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location, market conditions, job-related skillset, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, and/or training. The full salary range for certain locations is listed below. For locations not listed below, the recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees are offered benefits, subject to Cisco's plan eligibility rules, which include medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability coverage, and basic life insurance. Please see the Cisco careers site to discover more benefits and perks. Employees may be eligible to receive grants of Cisco restricted stock units, which vest following continued employment with Cisco for defined periods of time.

U.S. employees are eligible for paid time away as described below, subject to Cisco's policies:
  • 10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees
  • 1 paid day off for employee's birthday, paid year-end holiday shutdown, and 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco
  • Non-exempt employees** receive 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees
  • Exempt employees participate in Cisco's flexible vacation time off program, which has no defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use (subject to availability and some business limitations)
  • 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next
  • Additional paid time away may be requested to deal with critical or emergency issues for family members
  • Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer


For non-sales roles, employees are also eligible to earn annual bonuses subject to Cisco's policies.

Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components, subject to the applicable Cisco plan. 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 0% up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.

The applicable full salary ranges for this position, by specific state, are listed below:

New York City Metro Area:
$186,900.00 - $307,800.00

Non-Metro New York state & Washington state:
$166,300.00 - $274,100.00

* For quota-based sales roles on Cisco's sales plan, the ranges provided in this posting include base pay and sales target incentive compensation combined.

** Employees in Illinois, whether exempt or non-exempt, will participate in a unique time off program to meet local requirements.

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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