Senior Design Engineer

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Application Window expected to close 03/01/2026.

Meet the Team Join Cisco’s Silicon Photonics group, where we combine deep expertise in analog, digital, and optical design to build the world’s fastest networking solutions. We’re a collaborative, innovative team passionate about pushing the limits of high-speed connectivity.

As a Hardware Design Engineer, you’ll lead the design and development of next-generation 100G/200G/400G photonics ICs. From architecture to lab validation, you’ll shape product direction, mentor engineers, and ensure Cisco stays at the forefront of optical networking innovation.

• Drive architecture, design, and verification of high‑speed mixed‑signal and photonics circuits.
• Define and document chip‑level specifications and verification plans.
• Collaborate across optical, electrical, firmware, and manufacturing teams to deliver end‑to‑end solutions.
• Lead lab validation, debug, and yield improvement activities.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers.

• Bachelor’s + 7 years of related experience, or Master’s + 4 years, or PhD + 1 year, or equivalent related work experience.
• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering (or related field).
• Experience in analog/mixed‑signal IC design for high‑speed systems.
• Lab validation and test experience with high‑speed equipment.
• Experience writing code with Python or C for automation and/or analysis.
• Expertise with design tools (Cadence Virtuoso, Spectre, Calibre, etc.).

• Deep expertise in photonics and high‑speed datapath circuits (modulators, TIAs, PLLs, ADC/DAC, CDR).
• Knowledge of industry standards (IEEE 802.3, QSFP,