Hardware Engineer - Signal and Power Integrity

Hardware Engineer - Signal and Power Integrity

Join to apply for the Hardware Engineer - Signal and Power Integrity role at Cisco

The application window is expected to close on 2/30/2026
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This is an onsite role and will work out of our Carlsbad, CA office location.

The system hardware team in Cisco Client Optical Group is seeking a Senior PCB and Signal/Power Integrity Engineer for the design and analysis of high-speed PCB/substrate and power distribution networks. As a member of the hardware design team, you will help develop the next generations of Cisco optical module products, participating in the definition and design of current and next-generation ASICs, packages, PCBs and PCBAs.

You will be working in a team of electrical and mechanical engineers, collaborating closely with system architects, ASIC engineers, package engineers, layout engineer and other SI/PI engineers in the creation of next-generation optical modules.

• High-speed link modeling and simulation, including high-speed I/O, IC package, chip-on-chip-on-substrate design and system interconnections.
• Modeling and analyzing power delivery networks.
• Electromagnetic modeling of complex 3-dimensional structures.
• Work with layout engineer on PCB placement and routing for best SI and PI performance.
• Perform pre- and post-route signal integrity analysis of both PCB and ASIC package designs and correct the issues on the layout.
• Write signal integrity design guidelines, PCB test plans, and test reports.
• Decide appropriate PCB material, stack-up, and work with vendors to address any DFM (Design for Manufacturability) issues.
• Support prototype function bring-up, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Work closely with other hardware team members including HW design, CAD, Mechanical, Power, EMC, and Diagnostics to deliver first-class products.
• Drive the definition, implementation, and continuous improvement of advanced SI/PI methodologies, simulation flows, and design processes.
• Lead comprehensive SI/PI/PCB design reviews, providing expert guidance and ensuring adherence to stringent performance and reliability targets.

• 5+ years of related experience with a Bachelor’s Degree in EE, or 3+ years of experience with a Master’s Degree.
• Experience applying EE fundamentals, EM theory, and coupling mechanisms in circuit or system design, analysis, troubleshooting through projects, coursework, or work experience.
• Demonstrated experience with simulation or analysis of transmission lines, channel modeling, and signal/power integrity via academic or professional projects.
• High-speed PCB design experience from concept to release.
• Practical experience configuring and interpreting measurements from VNA, TDR, and oscilloscopes, demonstrated in lab, research, or engineering roles.

• Working knowledge of tools such as: HFSS, Cadence Clarity 3
  
  Dlayout and workbench, Cadence Power
  
  SI/Power
  
  DC, Allegro PCB Editor, and Allegro Package Designer.
• Self-motivation, collaboration, strong communication, and a desire to innovate are important.
• Working experience with high-speed NRZ and PAM4 Ser Des, as well as high-speed PCB/package development and PI analysis.
• Masters or PhD in Electrical Engineering.
• Knowledge of optical transceiver module types, form factors, and requirements.

Mid-Senior level

Full-time

Engineering and Information Technology

Software Development