Senior Manager, System Level Testing

Cisco•San Jose, CA

About The Position

Cisco’s Silicon One organization is redefining the future of networking silicon, and we are looking for a seasoned engineering leader to head our System-Level Test Engineering team. In this role, you will guide a team of talented test engineers responsible for validating complex silicon designs and ensuring product quality, reliability, and readiness for deployment across Cisco’s industry-leading platforms. This position requires a blend of strategic leadership, deep technical insight, and strong multi-functional collaboration. You will shape long-term test strategies, drive execution across multiple programs, and partner closely with design, software, verification, operations, and vendor teams to bring advanced networking solutions to market.

Requirements

BSc/MSc in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related engineering field.
8+ years of experience in system or hardware test engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
Experience with high-speed SERDES bring-up, validation, and debug in complex system environments.
Strong experience in hardware/software integration and system-level validation.

Nice To Haves

Experience with lab equipment, silicon bring-up methodologies, and large-scale automation solutions.
Proficiency with Linux and Python.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proven ability to collaborate across global teams.
Self-motivated, organized, and a strong team player.

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of system-level test engineers.
Manage hiring, performance reviews, goal-setting, and long-term career development.
Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented team culture.
Define and execute the long-term system-level test and validation vision for Cisco Silicon One products.
Establish scalable test methodologies supporting new product introduction (NPI) and high-volume manufacturing.
Prioritize projects, allocate resources, and ensure successful, on-time delivery across multiple programs.
Oversee development of automated test solutions, test plans, and system validation workflows.
Lead system-level validation for pre-silicon and post-silicon phases using emulation, FPGA, and physical platforms.
Define test strategies to optimize coverage, product quality, yield, and compliance with regulatory and security requirements.
Drive root-cause analysis and resolution of complex hardware/software integration issues.
Support tooling, automation infrastructure, and test equipment planning to ensure operational efficiency.
Act as the primary technical interface for system-level testing across hardware design, software development, verification, operations, and program management teams.
Work with external vendors to evaluate and integrate emerging test technologies.
Provide clear and concise updates to senior leadership on progress, risks, quality metrics, and strategic initiatives.