Principal Software Engineer – AI

Cisco

Drive AI strategy and execution across Acacia Business Units at Cisco. Partner with teams to improve workflows and outcomes through AI initiatives.

Posted 5/30/2026full-timeRemote • California, Massachusetts • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $231,400 - $331,800 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and drive the AI strategy, roadmap, and priorities for Acacia BU
Identify and prioritize AI use cases across functions within the business unit
Partner with cross-functional teams to improve workflows and enable better business outcomes through AI
Coordinate AI efforts across Acacia to improve alignment, reduce duplication, and increase scale
Evaluate emerging AI trends and technologies for relevance to Acacia’s business needs
Lead AI initiatives from concept through pilot, implementation, and adoption
Track progress, outcomes, and business value of AI initiatives
Provide clear updates, recommendations, and prioritization guidance
Help establish consistent practices for AI adoption and execution within the BU

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelors + 15 years of related experience, or Masters + 12 years of related experience, or PhD + 8 years of related experience, or equivalent related work experience
Experience leading AI, automation, advanced analytics, or digital transformation initiatives
Experience with generative AI, workflow automation, and AI-enabled productivity tools
Experience working across business and technical teams
Experience driving cross-functional programs from strategy through execution
Experience with current AI trends and their practical application in business environments

Benefits

Comp & perks

medical, dental and vision insurance
a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution
paid parental leave
short and long-term disability coverage
basic life insurance
10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday
1 paid day off for employee’s birthday
paid year-end holiday shutdown
4 paid days off for personal wellness
16 days of paid vacation time for non-exempt employees
flexible vacation time off program for exempt employees
80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st
up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one year to the next
Additional paid time away may be requested for family emergencies
Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

AI strategyAI use casesworkflow automationadvanced analyticsdigital transformationgenerative AIAI-enabled productivity toolscross-functional program managementAI trends evaluationimplementation and adoption of AI initiatives

Soft Skills

leadershipcommunicationcollaborationstrategic thinkingprioritizationrecommendation developmentbusiness outcome focusalignment facilitationproblem-solvingadaptability

Certifications

Bachelor's degreeMaster's degreePhD