How to Get
a Job at Cisco

Wondering how to get a job at Cisco Systems Inc? According to Fortune, Cisco Systems was the best workplace in the world in 2021. The company is the country’s largest security and networking solutions provider. Working at Cisco allows you to connect with cutting-edge technology and work alongside industry leaders from across the world.

Whether you are a computer science student or a security and networks specialist interested in working at Cisco, this guide will show you the way to a successful career. Read below to learn more about the jobs you can get at Cisco, how to ace your interview, and what you need to do to get there.

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Cisco Systems is a leading supplier of networking software, hardware, telecommunications equipment, and other high-tech products and services. It was founded in 1984 by two computer scientists from Stanford University. Since then, Cisco has gone above and beyond to create technology that connects and inspires people everywhere.

Cisco engineers are at the forefront of IP-based networking technology innovation, including security, optical networking, IP telephony, storage area networking, and wireless networking. Though its headquarters are in San Jose, California, Cisco has offices in over 115 countries offering different job opportunities.

Past and present employees report that working for Cisco is fun and stimulating. There is a flexible work culture, and working from home was encouraged even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Employees are given a lot of leeway to develop innovative ideas that improve the user experience, and Cisco salaries are generally above average.

After a few months of working on a project, you can request to move to another sector in the company to experience a variety of roles. The work-life balance at Cisco is exceptional, and employees always feel heard and appreciated, no matter their current role. This is one of the best tech companies to work for.

Cisco has a simple company culture strategy that it refers to as a conscious culture. This means everyone from management to the lowest-ranked employee must practice self-awareness in the office. The culture demands that you are accountable, feel empowered, and help others thrive.

Some of the prime facets of this culture include staying positive, always giving your best, and most importantly, taking action and accountability for everything that comes your way. Cisco is also known for the “Be You” initiative, which encourages employees to be themselves no matter what.

Based on Cisco Systems reviews on Glassdoor, Cisco has the best work-life culture, and people seem to genuinely care about others. Some reviewers say that the work-life balance varies depending on your position, and tech sales professionals have a harder time. Overall, employees praise the positive environment and open opportunities at Cisco.

If you want to get a job at Cisco, you should become familiar with the hiring process. Once you know what to expect, you can feel more comfortable both in your job interview and in every other step. Read below to learn more about the Cisco hiring process and how you can put your best foot forward and get hired at Cisco.

The application process at Cisco starts with an online job application. Go through the open positions on the company’s website to see which ones you qualify for. Alternatively, you can sign up for job notifications so you can be alerted every time a job matches your skills and qualifications.

In the application form, be sure to include your educational background and any technical qualifications or coding skills you may have. Even if you’re not applying for computer science jobs specifically, you should show Cisco that you’re knowledgeable about the industry. A letter of recommendation from a previous employer is also an asset.

When you are ready, click “Apply” and complete your profile if you haven’t done so already. Upon submission, you’ll receive an email confirmation. If your resume is impressive, the recruitment team will reach out and invite you for a phone interview. You could experience an onsite interview or a behavioral interview by phone.

Regardless of the role, the interview process at Cisco is almost always the same. Interviews are conducted in four, often five, rounds. First, a hiring manager will conduct a telephone interview if your application has been successful. The idea is to know more about your work history, your motivation to join Cisco, and your career goals.

Depending on the position, you will be tested on a programming language of your choice in an aptitude test. This assessment has around 50 questions, divided into three sections: aptitude questions, technical questions, and questions about Cisco hardware.
If you pass the aptitude test, you might also go through a technical interview.

Candidates are tested on their comprehension of all aspects concerning networking and computer science. If you’re applying for a managerial role, you’ll also have to complete an interview that gauges your leadership and teamwork skills.

No matter what job you’re applying for, you’ll go through a typical interview that focuses on your work experience, personality, and fit for the job. The interviewer will ask you computer science interview questions about your skills, expected salary, and goals. This is a rigorous interview process, but the Cisco recruitment process is all about choosing the right person.

Compensation is a critical aspect of employee satisfaction, so Cisco ensures it pays its employees well. Your benefits and salary will depend on the job, but in general, Cisco offers great perks for everyone who works there. Read below to learn more about Cisco salaries, compensation, benefits, and perks.

According to PayScale, the average annual salary at Cisco Systems is $107,000. PayScale also reports that the average bonus is $12,000. Of course, this figure can increase or decrease depending on the position and years of service. Overall, Cisco employees make above-average salaries.

In addition to competitive pay, Cisco also provides other perks and benefits to help employees thrive. The standard benefits include health benefits like dental, vision, and long-term disability insurance, as well as retirement benefits and a defined contribution pension plan.

Employees can also access the employee stock purchase program and buy Cisco stocks at a discount. Cisco also offers tuition reimbursement for courses at accredited institutions so you can upskill while working. Another unique benefit is the job and time swap, where you can swap 20 percent of your job duties with a colleague to learn new things.

Below are a few of the job opportunities currently available at Cisco. If you are a computer science graduate or have had a career in software and IT-related roles, these Cisco career opportunities are a great choice. You can also check out Cisco’s careers portal for other job vacancies.

Depending on the position, it can be hard to get a job with Cisco Systems. Cisco’s hiring process is rigorous and thorough to ensure it chooses the right candidate for the job. Cisco Systems looks at skilled and dedicated professionals like everyone else, so if you have the necessary skills, you will easily clear the selection process.