Forward Deployed AI Solutions Engineer

Cisco Systems, Inc; Reston (VA); Remote; USD 247,000 - 327,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid parental leave

Sick time off

Volunteer time off

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking an accomplished Forward Deployed Solutions Engineer (AI-focused) to drive post-sales and pre-sales activities with strategic US customers.

You will architect AI-driven deployments, collaborate with product teams, and mentor a high-caliber FDSE group to deliver rapid ROI and durable growth across complex enterprise environments. The role requires deep AI expertise, strong customer-facing skills, and willingness to travel within the United States.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or related technical discipline, or equivalent practical engineering experience.
• 9+ years of professional post-sales and pre-sales experience with distributed software and system architectures.
• 3+ years experience in Generative and Agentic AI, ML platforms, Kubernetes, and event-driven architectures across cloud-native + hybrid platforms.
• Top Secret Security Clearance or ability to obtain one.
• Willingness and ability to travel within assigned territory to meet business and customer engagement requirements.

Responsibilities

• Architect AI-driven solutions for defense and intel customers, accelerating time-to-value.
• Collaborate with Cisco product engineering teams to provide field insights for AI portfolio evolution.
• Mentor and lead a team of FDSEs, fostering technical excellence and customer obsession.
• Engage cross-functionally with Sales, Product, Technology, and Partners to maximize outcomes.

Job description

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking an accomplished Forward Deployed Solutions Engineer (AI-focused) to drive post-sales and pre-sales activities with strategic US customers.

You will architect AI-driven deployments, collaborate with product teams, and mentor a high-caliber FDSE group to deliver rapid ROI and durable growth across complex enterprise environments. The role requires deep AI expertise, strong customer-facing skills, and willingness to travel within the United States.