Principal Engineer

We are looking for a strategic and technically deep Principal Engineer to lead the evolution of our networking products. This role is at the intersection of high-performance routing, network security, and Artificial Intelligence. You will act as the bridge between our core networking domain and a team of LLM/AI experts to develop intelligent features that enhance security, automate operations, and create new revenue streams for our existing product portfolio. The ideal candidate will leverage their deep understanding of Ciscos networking DNA to transform how AI and security are delivered at the silicon and software layers.
Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with LLM and AI research teams to integrate intelligent capabilities into networking platforms, focusing on predictive analytics, automated troubleshooting, and traffic optimization.
• Lead the design of next-generation security features (e.g., hardware-accelerated threat detection, AI-driven anomaly detection, and advanced telemetry) to provide a competitive edge and drive additional product revenue.
• Define the architectural roadmap for high-capacity networking platforms, ensuring they are optimized for both traditional data forwarding and emerging AI-driven workloads.
• Identify opportunities to monetize AI and security features within existing networking products, translating technical innovations into business value and growth.
• Oversee the programming of NPUs and ASICs (e.g., SiliconOne, DNX) to support the high-telemetry demands of AI models and the performance requirements of advanced security protocols.
• Serve as a subject matter expert across business units, mentoring engineers and guiding cross-functional teams through the complexities of hardware-software-AI integration.
  

Minimum Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in networking software, embedded systems, or security architecture, with a consistent track record of delivering complex products.
• Deep domain knowledge of Cisco networking architectures, IOS-XR/Classic, and the life cycle of Service Provider or Enterprise routing platforms.
• Strong background in network security, including ACLs, Lawful Intercept, uRPF, Control Plane Policing, and encryption standards.
• A solid conceptual understanding of LLMs and AI workflows, with the ability to identify how these technologies can be applied to network telemetry and data path optimization.
• Expert-level proficiency in C or C++. Experience with Python for automation and integration with AI frameworks is highly desirable.
• Experience with packet processing, QoS, and traffic management on programmable silicon (e.g., SiliconOne, Broadcom, or similar).
• Bachelors or Masters degree in Computer Science, Electronics, or a related technical field.
  

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Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to challenge the status quo and think inter-disciplinarily to solve complex problems.
• Understanding of market trends and the ability to align technical development with revenue-generating opportunities.
• Proven ability to work effectively with niche teams (like AI researchers) to translate abstract concepts into production-ready networking features.
• Excellent skills in articulating technical vision to leadership, customers, and engineering teams.
  

Why Cisco
At Cisco, were revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era – and beyond. Weve been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds. These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint.
Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions. Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and youll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless. We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale. Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere.
We are Cisco, and our power starts with you.