Join Cisco as a Hardware Engineer I Intern and dive into the heart of innovation where your contributions help shape the future of networking technology. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on impactful projects that drive Cisco's mission to connect everything, transforming how the world communicates and collaborates. As part of our dynamic hardware team, you'll gain invaluable experience while contributing to products that power global enterprises and secure digital infrastructures. In this internship, you'll engage in a variety of hands-on tasks essential to hardware development. Daily, you'll assist senior engineers in schematic design and PCB layout using tools like Cadence Allegro and Altium Designer, reviewing designs for manufacturability and performance optimization. Weekly, participate in prototyping sessions, assembling and troubleshooting circuit boards in the lab, conducting signal integrity tests with oscilloscopes and logic analyzers. You'll collaborate closely with firmware teams to integrate hardware-software interfaces, document findings in detailed reports, and support simulation runs using SPICE for power and thermal analysis. Monthly deliverables include contributing to design reviews, analyzing test data to meet key metrics like signal-to-noise ratios and power efficiency targets, and iterating on prototypes based on feedback from cross-functional stakeholders including mechanical and quality assurance teams. Expect to shadow leadership in project planning meetings, fostering skills in agile methodologies tailored to hardware sprints. To succeed, candidates must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field, with junior or senior standing and a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Prior coursework or projects in digital/analog circuit design, embedded systems, and RF fundamentals are essential, along with familiarity with hardware description languages like Verilog or VHDL. Proficiency in lab equipment such as multimeters, spectrum analyzers, and soldering stations is required, complemented by experience with EDA tools and version control systems like Git. Knowledge of networking protocols and standards such as Ethernet or PCIe is a plus, though not mandatory for interns. No professional certifications are needed, but completion of relevant university labs or personal projects demonstrating hardware prototyping will set you apart. Technical expertise is paired with essential soft skills for this role. Strong problem-solving abilities enable you to debug complex hardware issues methodically, while excellent communication skills help articulate technical concepts in team meetings and documentation. Attention to detail ensures precision in design and testing, and adaptability thrives in our fast-paced, innovative environment. Collaborative competencies shine when working with multidisciplinary teams, and a passion for learning new technologies keeps you ahead in the evolving hardware landscape. Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity, empowers an inclusive internet for all with a mission to change the world through network effects. Our Carlsbad team operates in a collaborative, high-energy environment within modern facilities equipped with state-of-the-art labs. We foster a culture of innovation, diversity, and work-life balance, where interns are mentored by industry experts and encouraged to think big. What sets us apart is our commitment to employee growth and real project ownership from day one. Compensation for this internship is competitive and not specified in detail, aligning with market rates for engineering interns in California. Cisco offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance, vision and dental coverage, and access to our 401(k) with company match. Perks include paid time off, flexible work hours, employee stock purchase plans, and tuition reimbursement for continued education. Additional incentives encompass wellness programs, gym memberships, and commuter benefits, ensuring interns feel valued and supported. This internship paves the way for full-time opportunities at Cisco, with clear paths to Hardware Engineer roles upon graduation. Professional development includes training workshops, certifications, and mentorship programs. To apply, submit your resume and transcript via our careers portal today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in hardware engineering.