Cisco

Thermal Engineering Technical Leader

Cisco$162K — $205K *
Enterprise Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in Material Science, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering (MS preferred) or related field.
  • 8+ years of thermal/mechanical design experience in electronics.
  • Direct expertise with liquid cooling systems including cold plates and pumps.
  • Strong knowledge of air-cooled solutions such as heat pipes and vapor chambers.
  • Hands-on experience with thermal data acquisition tools for validation and troubleshooting.
  • Proficiency in CFD and simulation-to-test correlation processes.
  • Quick learner, adept at academic research and practical sensing.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and validation of product-level thermal solutions.
  • Own modeling, simulation, and thermal testing workflows.
  • Partner with suppliers and ODMs to evaluate new cooling technologies.
  • Define design parameters and correlate physical testing with simulation models.
  • Collaborate with Cisco hardware design teams on thermal strategies.
  • Contribute to cross-functional efforts to improve qualification standards.
  • Drive innovation to ensure high-performance system design.

Benefits

  • Work based in San Jose, CA, a hub for tech innovation.
  • Cross-functional collaboration with diverse teams.
  • Opportunity to drive innovation in thermal management technologies.
  • Engage with cutting-edge cooling technology implementations.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/29/2026
This role will be based out of our San Jose, CA office.

Your Impact

In this role, you will lead the design, simulation, validation, and production readiness of product-level thermal solutions, both liquid and air-cooled. You will own modeling, simulation, thermal testing, and performance validation workflows, partnering with suppliers, ODMs, and internal teams to evaluate and implement new cooling technologies. Your work will define design parameters, correlate physical testing with simulation models, and collaborate with Cisco hardware design teams to roadmap next-generation thermal strategies. You will also contribute to cross-functional efforts to improve qualification and specification standards, driving innovation and ensuring high-performance system design.

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS in Material Science, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering (MS preferred) or related.
  • 8+ years of experience in thermal/mechanical design for electronics
  • Direct experience with liquid cooling systems: cold plates, manifolds, pumps, CDUs
  • Strong working knowledge of air-cooled solutions: heat pipes, vapor chambers, TIMs
  • Hands-on validation and troubleshooting with thermal data acquisition tools
  • Proficient in CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and simulation-to-test correlation
  • Quick learner, adaptive in learning through sensing and academic research


Preferred Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in microelectronics thermal management
  • Proven experience productizing liquid cooling solutions, beyond lab or R&D work
  • Familiarity with component packaging (BGA, Flip Chip, 2.5D/3D IC)
  • Understanding of component and system reliability for thermal subsystems
  • Effective communicator with ability to present findings to cross-functional and executive audiences

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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