Systems Hardware Engineer

Valtix • San Jose, CA

70d

About The Position

Join our high-impact Systems & Optics (SaO) team within Cisco's Common Hardware Group (CHG), providing essential support across key verticals including SP Routing, Enterprise Routing, and Switching. Our team is a foundational partner across CHG-driving innovation, advancing design reliability, and enabling scalable hardware solutions that power Cisco's most critical products. You will help shape next-generation system technologies by driving advanced simulation, experimental validation, and cross-functional optimization. Working closely with System Architects, Silicon Design, Supply Chain, Optical and Electrical Design teams, your contributions will directly influence system design, integration, reliability and performance across programs-while also supporting long-term technology roadmaps and industry leadership.

Requirements

• BS, MS or PhD in material science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of hands-on networking industry experience, with a focus in PCB technology.
• Demonstrated knowledge of PCB fabrication processes and technologies, including experience with PCB assembly, testing, and failure analysis.
• Experience leading and influencing cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated expertise in project management, data-analysis, and presentation execution.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with CAD tools and PCB design reviews (e.g., Cadence Allegro, Siemens Valor).
• Solid understanding of signal integrity and high-speed I/O system-level risks.
• Strong skills in failure analysis and root cause investigation.
• Ability to design manufacturable, reliable PCBA solutions that meet performance requirements.
• Experience developing test vehicles, leading testing, analyzing results, and creating implementation guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Define system-level PCB/PCBA design limits (e.g., warpage, current, stack-up) using simulation, test vehicles, and validation techniques.
• Develop and validate high-speed I/O and power design rules across PCB configurations, materials, and BGA/VPM packages.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to predict, mitigate, and redesign high-risk areas in PCB/system integration.
• Drive power and thermal performance improvements (e.g., PEnCR, VeCS) through test vehicle development and system-level design rules.
• Support industry leadership through academic/industry collaboration, IP development, and contributions to standards and publications.

Benefits

• Quality medical, dental and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution.
• Short and long-term disability coverage.
• Basic life insurance.
• Numerous wellbeing offerings.
• Up to twelve paid holidays per calendar year.
• Flexible Vacation Time Off policy for exempt new hires.
• Sick Time Off policy with 80 hours provided on hire date.
• Paid time away to deal with critical or emergency issues.
• Additional paid time to volunteer and give back to the community.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Publishing Industries
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees