Software Engineer Data & AI PhD (Intern) - United States

Cisco•San Jose, CA

4d•$44,000 - $185,000

About The Position

This potential internship opportunity is for a software engineer working on Cisco’s AI-driven platforms and data infrastructure. Interns may join teams developing advanced data pipelines, machine learning infrastructure, and analytics platforms across business groups such as S&TO, Supply Chain, and Engineering. The role contributes to data engineering and intelligent systems initiatives that help Cisco and its customers use information and intelligent automation. The engineer will develop and maintain software tools and platforms, including scalable data pipelines, robust analytics platforms, and infrastructure supporting machine learning initiatives. The work supports reliable, high-quality data infrastructure and enables business groups to use AI and data-driven insights for operational excellence and strategic growth. The posting advertises potential opportunities; the exact role may not be open currently, and Cisco may contact applicants if a relevant position becomes available. Remote work in the United States may be possible depending on business needs and hiring manager approval.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field.
Expected to continue enrollment in the degree program after completing the internship.
Demonstrated proficiency in Python and fundamental data structures.
Hands-on experience with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn.
Familiarity with distributed data processing technologies, including Apache Spark, Hadoop (MapReduce), or Apache Flink.
Experience with containerization and orchestration tools such as Docker and Kubernetes for deploying data and machine learning workloads.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience with AI/ML.
Familiarity with major cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
Understanding of distributed systems concepts, including scalability, reliability, fault tolerance, and data consistency.
Familiarity with distributed computing patterns such as load balancing, consensus algorithms, and inter-service communication.

Responsibilities

Develop scalable data pipelines.
Design robust analytics platforms.
Build infrastructure to support machine learning initiatives.
Build and maintain software tools and platforms that help business groups use AI and data-driven insights.
Support high-quality, reliable data infrastructure.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance, subject to plan eligibility rules.
401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution.
Paid parental leave.
Short- and long-term disability coverage.
Basic life insurance.
Potential eligibility for Cisco restricted stock unit grants, subject to continued employment and vesting conditions.
10 paid holidays per full calendar year and one floating holiday for non-exempt employees.
One paid day off for an employee’s birthday, a paid year-end holiday shutdown, and four paid personal wellness days.
For non-exempt employees, 16 days of paid vacation per full calendar year, accrued at 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees.
For eligible exempt employees, flexible vacation time off with no defined usage limit, subject to availability and business limitations.
80 hours of sick time off provided on hire and each January 1st, with up to 80 unused hours carried forward.
Additional paid time away may be requested for critical or emergency family issues.
Optional 10 paid volunteer days per full calendar year.
For non-sales roles, eligibility to earn annual bonuses, subject to Cisco policies.