Senior Hardware Program Manager - Lead Next-Gen AI Platforms

Cisco Systems; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Cisco Systems in Austin, TX is seeking an experienced Hardware Program Manager to own end-to-end delivery of next-generation hardware platforms. You will orchestrate cross-functional teams across hardware and software engineering, product management, and operations to ensure on-time, high-quality releases while maintaining financial rigor.

The role requires leading large-scale programs with complex interdependencies, strong planning and budgeting skills, and the use of modern PM tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering with 7+ years of experience or a master’s degree in engineering with 5+ years of experience in hardware program management.
• Experience leading end-to-end, complex hardware programs with moderate to high risk and multiple multi-functional interdependencies.
• Experience defining and delivering program plans, schedules, and budgets, including monitoring critical path activities and resource allocation.
• Experience in project management tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, MS Project) to track program metrics.
• Experience using AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Codex, Claude) to improve program management processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead program management of large-scale hardware products with multiple interdependencies and end-to-end delivery from concept to customer release.
• Align hardware and software engineering, product management, and operations teams for cohesive execution.
• Identify strategic solutions by analyzing business trends to improve program delivery.
• Monitor program health, critical paths, risks, and course corrections.
• Oversee budgets, resource allocation, and financial alignment with business plans.
• Provide executive updates and strategic recommendations to key partners.

Skills

Program management

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's degree in engineering

Tools

Jira

Confluence

MS Project

AI tools usage

Job description

Cisco Systems in Austin, TX is seeking an experienced Hardware Program Manager to own end-to-end delivery of next-generation hardware platforms. You will orchestrate cross-functional teams across hardware and software engineering, product management, and operations to ensure on-time, high-quality releases while maintaining financial rigor.

The role requires leading large-scale programs with complex interdependencies, strong planning and budgeting skills, and the use of modern PM tools.