Principal AI-Driven Network Validation Architect

Cisco Systems, Inc.; Clegg (NC); Hybrid; USD 223,000 - 301,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life Insurance

Vision Insurance

Parental Leave

Paid Holidays

Sick Time

401(k)

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a Principal Software Engineer for Cisco IQ Validation. You will architect scalable backend services to automate complex network validation, including SD-WAN and data center infrastructure, and lead engineering teams through multi-year roadmaps.

The role emphasizes AI-driven workflows, prompt engineering standards, and high-assurance reliability in production environments. A strong focus on collaboration and technical excellence is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS, Engineering, or related field.
• 15+ years in backend software architecture and core development.
• Experience with SD-WAN, data center infra, or enterprise networks.
• Experience deploying AI-driven applications and agentic workflows.
• Proven ability to lead large technical initiatives across teams.

Responsibilities

• Define and architect scalable backend services for network validation.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring across engineering teams.
• Align multi-year technical roadmaps with stakeholders and business goals.
• Establish standards for prompt engineering and model interactions across AI systems.
• Drive innovation in deployment methods and reliability for mission-critical networks.

Skills

Backend architecture

AI-driven workflows

Leadership

Networking expertise

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering or related field

Tools

Python

Rust

Job description

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a Principal Software Engineer for Cisco IQ Validation. You will architect scalable backend services to automate complex network validation, including SD-WAN and data center infrastructure, and lead engineering teams through multi-year roadmaps.

The role emphasizes AI-driven workflows, prompt engineering standards, and high-assurance reliability in production environments. A strong focus on collaboration and technical excellence is expected.