Leader, Hardware Engineering

Cisco

Confirmed live today High trust

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
San Jose, CA
Salary
$171,600–$245,000 / yr
Employment
Full-time
Posted
3 days ago
Freshness
Confirmed live today
Closes
Nov 9, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Competitive pay

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $197k
This role $208k
$145k $256k
below market most similar roles pay here above market

This role pays more than 59% of similar roles. Most pay $167,300–$227,350 — the blue band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $208k versus about $197k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About Cisco

Cisco Systems is the world''s leading networking technology company, designing and manufacturing networking hardware, telecommunications equipment, and cybersecurity solutions for businesses and governments. Industry: Networking Technology & Cybersecurity

Cisco currently has 267 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $167,700–$245,000 across 201 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Leader, Hardware Engineering

Leader, Hardware Engineering (Onsite) joins the Data Center Network Product, Component and Quality Operations team to manage a midsized hardware development function. This role involves leading a team to improve engineering processes and infrastructure while overseeing the entire product life cycle from New Product Introduction to End of Sales. Key responsibilities include directing research and technical design for electronic parts, circuitry, and mechanical systems, resolving production issues, and ensuring technical quality throughout the architecture process. The successful candidate will utilize a BS in Electrical Engineering and ten years of experience in electrical, manufacturing, and design. Required competencies include a deep understanding of PBA and PCBA manufacturing processes and technology, specifically within the context of switch and router product development.

What you'll do

  • Manage the daily activities and technical output of a midsized hardware engineering team.
  • Direct research and technical design for electronic parts, circuitry, and mechanical systems.
  • Lead hardware projects from initial requirements through execution and final delivery.
  • Evaluate and resolve technical feasibility, design optimization, and production issues.
  • Ensure technical quality throughout the architecture and design process for data center products.
  • Identify and lead problem-solving initiatives within the data center product family.
  • Seek alternate sourcing options and collaborate with finance to analyze key financial resources.
  • Track resource use to minimize waste and reduce duplication of efforts.

What we're looking for

  • BS in Electrical Engineering with 10 years of related experience in electrical, manufacturing, and design.
  • Good understanding of PBA and PCBA manufacturing process and technology.
  • Experience working on a switch/router product.
  • Experience as a people leader and managing teams.
  • Master’s degree in a relevant field (preferred).

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