Unlocking Your Potential: A Deep Dive into the Cisco Meraki Internship Program

Cisco Meraki, a recognized leader in cloud-managed IT, extends a compelling invitation to aspiring professionals through its comprehensive internship program. This initiative is designed to connect passionate individuals with meaningful work, simplifying the digital workplace and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. The impact of Meraki is profoundly shaped by the innovative, purposeful, and dynamic people who form its core. When technology is intuitive, customers can concentrate on their core missions, and it is the employees who truly fuel the magic of the Meraki community. They have cultivated an environment that empowers Merakians to challenge boundaries, embrace calculated risks, and actively assist customers in achieving their objectives. At the heart of Meraki's operations lie four guiding principles: 'care deeply,' 'everybody in,' 'simplify everything,' and 'be brave.' These foundational values have been instrumental in propelling the company to the forefront of cloud-managed IT leadership and have played a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive future for all.

The Network Support Engineer Intern Experience

Within the Meraki Support team, Network Support Engineer Interns are positioned as key contributors. These interns engage in troubleshooting a diverse range of cases that span the entire Meraki product portfolio. This includes wireless access points, security appliances, switches, and the Systems Manager application, mirroring the responsibilities of full-time engineers. The program is characterized by a steep learning curve and a stimulating, challenging work environment. Upon completion, interns emerge with a significantly enhanced understanding of networking, refined problem-solving capabilities, and a mastery of customer support that will serve them throughout their professional journeys. Meraki views its interns as an integral part of the Support team, actively seeking smart, passionate individuals who are receptive to taking on any task and demonstrate proactivity in assisting the team. This full-time position is based in Chicago, with applications accepted until further notice.

Eligibility and Qualifications for Aspiring Interns

To be considered for the Network Support Engineer Intern role, candidates should be pursuing an associate's degree or be a junior or senior pursuing a bachelor's degree. The preferred fields of study include computer science, information technology, networking, systems administration, or a closely related discipline from an accredited university. Significantly, individuals who have successfully completed a relevant networking BootCamp within the last six months will also be considered. A fundamental comprehension of networking protocols, such as TCP, STP, ARP, Ethernet, and OSPF, is essential. While not strictly required, prior experience in helpdesk roles, technical call centers, desktop support, or previous networking experience is considered a valuable asset. A basic understanding of networking fundamentals is a prerequisite for success in this role.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Equal Opportunity at Cisco

Cisco operates as an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. Consequently, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Furthermore, Cisco will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment on a case-by-case basis. At Cisco Meraki, the company actively challenges the status quo by embracing the power of diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. By connecting different perspectives, Meraki fosters an environment where new possibilities can be imagined, innovation can be inspired, and the full potential of its people can be unleashed. The company is dedicated to building an employee experience that encompasses appreciation, a sense of belonging, continuous growth, and a clear sense of purpose for everyone.

Compensation and Benefits Overview

For roles based in the United States and/or Canada (excluding equity or benefits), the hiring ranges for non-sales positions reflect base salary only, with employees also being eligible for annual bonuses. For sales positions, hiring ranges encompass both base salary and target incentive compensation. The determination of individual pay is influenced by the candidate's hiring location and additional factors, including but not limited to their skillset, experience, and relevant education, certifications, or training. The recruiter can provide more specific details regarding compensation for the role in your particular location during the hiring process.

Read also: A Guide to Cisco Internships

Meraki employees benefit from a comprehensive package. This includes quality medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a matching contribution from Cisco, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, and a wide array of well-being offerings. Employees are granted up to twelve paid holidays annually, which include one floating holiday, in addition to a day off for their birthday. Paid Time Off (PTO) accrues at a rate of up to 20 days per year, and employees have access to paid time away to address critical or emergency issues without utilizing their PTO. The company also offers additional paid time for employees to volunteer and contribute to the community. Furthermore, employees have the opportunity to purchase company stock through the Employee Stock Purchase Program. Sales professionals on designated plans earn performance-based incentive pay in addition to their base salary, which is structured with both quota and non-quota components. Incentive rates are set at 1% of the incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%. Once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment, with no cap on incentive compensation. For non-quota-based sales performance elements, such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may award up to 125% of the target.

A Legacy of Innovation: Cisco's Foundation and Growth

Cisco hardware, software, and service offerings are instrumental in creating the internet solutions that enable networks, providing seamless access to information anytime and anywhere. Cisco was established in 1984 by a group of computer scientists from Stanford University. Since its inception, Cisco engineers have been at the forefront of developing Internet Protocol (IP)-based networking technologies. Today, with over 71,000 employees globally, this tradition of innovation continues through industry-leading products and solutions in core development areas such as routing and switching. The company also excels in advanced technologies including home networking, IP telephony, optical networking, security, storage area networking, and wireless technology. Beyond its product portfolio, Cisco offers a broad spectrum of services, including technical support and advanced services. Cisco markets its products and services through a direct sales force and a network of channel partners, serving large enterprises, commercial businesses, service providers, and individual consumers.

The Meraki Internship Program: Impact, Growth, and Opportunity

Cisco Meraki offers a compelling internship program that emphasizes impact, growth, mentorship, and a dynamic environment. This program typically spans 3 to 12 months and varies across different regions and business groups. Interns gain invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world projects within a global setting. The program is designed to kickstart careers by fostering skill development, accumulating practical experience, and expanding professional networks.

Apprenticeships and Entry-Level Pathways

Beyond internships, Meraki also provides apprenticeship opportunities that blend practical work with structured learning, enabling individuals to build essential skills under expert guidance. Entry-level positions are available across various skill areas, each supported by tailored learning paths and mentorship programs designed to assist new hires in initiating and advancing their professional careers.

Real Intern Experiences: Learning, Collaboration, and Culture

The Meraki internship experience is often described through the words of its participants. One intern shared, "Iâm constantly learning because Cisco provides amazing opportunities for growth. I can enhance my technical skills by earning certifications, and improve my soft skills through client interactions, presentations, and participating in conferences." Another highlighted the collaborative spirit, stating, "Everyone across teams, up and down the hierarchy, are very willing to give a helping hand for anything." A creative individual found the environment conducive to self-expression: "As a creative, corporate spaces can sometimes feel limiting, but Cisco gave me the freedom and encouragement to explore my voice and skills." The tangible impact of the work is also a significant theme: "I've been helping customers solve real challenges and making their day-to-day work easier."

Read also: Maintain Your Cisco Certification

Navigating Your Career Path at Meraki

Meraki encourages individuals to find the right position in the right location for them. With offices and teams situated globally, there are opportunities to explore local roles and engage in collaboration with peers worldwide. The company emphasizes the importance of being prepared, unique, and authentic during the application process. This begins with a strong, tailored resume that highlights skills and accomplishments, incorporating relevant keywords for recruiters. Active involvement in meaningful clubs, organizations, or personal projects that reflect passions is also encouraged, with a focus on quality engagement.

The Internship Application and Interview Process

The application process typically begins with an online application to an open position. Recruiters and hiring managers then review applicant qualifications to determine candidates who will advance to the interview stage. Recruiters provide detailed information about what to expect during interviews, as the process can vary by position. Generally, interviews will assess skills and experience against current business needs. Candidates can expect questions about their academic and work history, and will have the opportunity to ask questions as well. Preparation to discuss achievements and the value one can bring to Cisco is essential. The company stresses the importance of doing research and approaching the process with curiosity and a hunger to learn. During interviews, candidates are encouraged to ask questions about Cisco, the team, and the specific position. Ultimately, the goal is to understand the unique individual behind the application.

Driving Your Own Progress and Career Growth

Meraki promotes a culture where individuals are encouraged to drive their own progress and direct their career growth. This involves identifying opportunities, adding value, and proactively seeking out assignments that offer challenges and opportunities for development beyond the current role. Further details on career growth and learning can be found on the dedicated Career Growth & Learning page.

Understanding Qualifications and Location Requirements

Each job posting includes a list of qualifications, which candidates should review to assess their fit based on skill sets and educational requirements. Some positions may also have specific location requirements. Relocation is handled on a case-by-case basis and depends on various factors, including business needs and the type of role. If unsure about eligibility, candidates are encouraged to apply anyway. If selected to move forward, the recruiter can provide answers to specific questions regarding the role, qualifications, location, visa or work permit requirements, and more.

A Commitment to Fairness and Authenticity

Cisco deeply values and welcomes the skills, creativity, and unique perspectives that each candidate brings to the company. A strong commitment is made to promoting fairness, honesty, and originality in all aspects of the hiring process. Regarding the use of AI technologies in the application process, Cisco emphasizes that while millions of ways exist to use AI, the most crucial element is ensuring that the authentic, human candidate is always driving the application. Cisco teams are eager to learn about individual thoughts, experiences, and unique ways of processing information. More information on these guidelines can be found in the Generative AI Best Practices and Permitted Uses overview.

Realizing Potential: Stories of Internship Success

The "We Are Cisco" blog offers insights into how individuals have successfully launched their careers, discovered new opportunities, and utilized Cisco's robust career development resources to forge their own paths. One featured story highlights how a supportive, inclusive Cisco internship enabled an intern to grow, belong, and successfully launch their career in the tech industry. Another narrative details how a bold application led to a full-time global marketing role and subsequent growth through Ciscoâs Amplify program.

The Meraki Software Engineering Internship: A Closer Look

Cisco Meraki's impact is further exemplified by its software engineering internship program. As a leader in cloud-managed IT, Meraki simplifies the digital workplace, and its interns play a vital role in this mission. The company's culture, characterized by passion, purpose, and vibrancy, is a key driver of its success.

The Test Automation Engineering Internship

One specific internship opportunity lies within the test automation team, which is fully integrated into the software engineering department. This team handles a wide array of testing projects for Meraki's cloud-managed products, from nightly feature tests across the latest firmware images to comprehensive performance testing. They conduct large-scale testing to evaluate the impact of minor changes on overall performance. The automation framework is utilized across software engineering, with ongoing efforts to enhance its intuitiveness. Meraki products are deployed in over a million networks, serving tens of millions of people, underscoring the paramount importance of quality. The company seeks individuals who share this passion for quality to join its teams. Meraki engineers prioritize the customer experience, take ownership of projects from inception to completion, and are empowered to make impactful decisions. Intern contributions directly influence the company's success. Meraki believes that product quality is intrinsically linked to engineer quality, placing a high value on nurturing the growth and development of every team member within an open and encouraging workplace.

Potential Projects and Learning Opportunities in Test Automation

Interns in test automation may have the opportunity to design and build testbeds capable of dynamically altering topologies. They will have access to an in-house automation framework and APIs for further automation development. Interns are granted the autonomy to craft and implement solutions, supported by the knowledge and experience of their team members. In addition to software testing, interns may also engage with the latest hardware appliances during their early development phases, gaining firsthand insights into the technologies within the products. Through testing, interns acquire direct knowledge of performance metrics and contribute to improving product quality before release.

Qualifications for Test Automation Interns

Ideal candidates for the test automation internship are upcoming graduates from technical degree or certification programs. This includes those from Technical Boot Camps, Apprenticeships, Community Colleges, or Four-Year Universities. A solid understanding of core network protocols such as TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, and VLANs is essential. Experience with virtualization or container technologies like ESXi, Xen, or Docker is also a key requirement.

The Meraki Internship and Co-op Program Structure

Meraki interns and co-ops typically join for 12-week and 16-week programs, respectively, and are integrated directly into sub-teams. During their tenure, they have the chance to work on smaller starter projects, such as the integration and implementation of new tools, before dedicating the majority of their time to a larger, more substantial project, like building the infrastructure for a new service. These projects are designed to be multi-functional, offering exposure to new programming languages and technologies, fostering professional growth within engineering, and instilling a sense of ownership within the team.

Mentorship as a Cornerstone of the Program

Meraki's engineering teams place a significant emphasis on mentorship. Each intern and co-op is paired with a dedicated mentor who provides continuous feedback and guidance throughout the program. Mentors facilitate introductions to other team members, offer overviews of tools and processes, and ensure a smooth integration into the Meraki environment.

Cisco's Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

As previously stated, Cisco is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. The company is committed to challenging the status quo through diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, believing that connecting different perspectives sparks innovation and unlocks human potential. The goal is to create an employee experience that prioritizes appreciation, belonging, growth, and purpose for all.

Cisco Women Internship Program (CWIP)

The Cisco Women Internship Program (CWIP) is an innovative initiative specifically designed to empower female engineering students approaching the end of their second year. This two-month internship provides an opportunity to enhance skills and gain invaluable industry exposure early in their academic careers. Cisco has actively engaged with student feedback, understanding aspirations, challenges, and the support needed for success. This program is a testament to Cisco's commitment to empowering the journeys of its aspiring female engineers.

CWIP Details and Eligibility

The CWIP is tailored for second-year engineering students and complements Cisco's existing internship offerings. Placement teams will be provided with registration links, and interested students should reach out to their respective teams. There is no CGPA cut-off for this program. It is important to note that the CWIP is a two-month internship exclusively, and it is a completely in-person experience based at Cisco's Bangalore facility. Regardless of their participation outcome, all applicants are welcome to apply for other open positions at Cisco after a six-month period.

Software and Hardware Engineering Internships at Meraki

Meraki's 12-week internship program for Software and Hardware Engineering is characterized by impact, growth, mentorship, and a fun atmosphere. From May through August, Meraki hosts interns from various universities across the United States. These interns are tasked with designing and developing new features and products for a global customer base. Working closely with engineering teams, interns acquire practical industry experience, preparing them for future roles. In addition to their project work, interns participate in a variety of engaging events, including social activities, technical meetups, and a weekly lunch-and-learn series.

Intern Interview Experiences and Cultural Fit

Interns often share positive experiences regarding the Meraki interview process. One intern described it as "fairly straightforward," involving an initial call with a university recruiter followed by two coding interviews. The coding questions were noted for their creativity. Another intern found the experience "absolutely amazing" and significantly different from more formulaic processes at larger companies. The Meraki process was perceived as more personable, starting with a conversation with a recruiter to understand the organization and culture before moving into technical interviews. This approach allowed applicants to feel more informed about who they were speaking with and the nature of the interview. The people at Meraki are consistently cited as a major draw, with individuals described as intelligent, dedicated, and passionate, genuinely believing in Meraki's mission. The relatively smaller engineering organization at Meraki is also seen as an advantage, offering interns the potential for greater impact on the organization and its products.

Reasons for Choosing Meraki: Design and Autonomy

The industrial design of Meraki's products is another factor that attracts interns. The evident high level of care in the hardware and packaging is impressive. Furthermore, the opportunity and autonomy offered to interns working on summer projects are highly valued, with a focus on meaningful engineering work rather than menial tasks.

Intern Project Examples and Mentor Collaboration

Interns have worked on diverse projects. One intern on the Backend Infrastructure team focused on improving internal documentation tooling before undertaking a project to build a new monitoring feature for support staff, with potential future customer rollout. Another intern on the "Exploding Whales" team (Backend Team) worked on optimizing an aggregation framework for faster approximation queries and contributed to a larger effort to accurately identify clients across the Meraki dashboard and multiple devices. The collaborative aspect of working with mentors is highly regarded. Mentors provide extensive knowledge, answer questions readily, and foster a sense of belonging. The projects often dovetail with the mentor's work, leading to productive back-and-forth discussions and a synergistic approach. Shared interests and habits between interns and mentors can also lead to enjoyable bonding experiences.

Memorable Intern Events

Interns recall various enjoyable events, including a Meraki Open House that provided a change of pace and a chance to see the bigger picture of projects and teams. Showcasing work to the wider company and community was a highlight. A rented soccer field for a game involving both interns and engineers was another popular event. A more relaxed event, such as making succulent planters, was also appreciated as a pleasant break and a lasting memento.

Advice for Aspiring Meraki Interns

Prospective interns are encouraged not to be shy during interviews. The advice is to be oneself, embrace personality, and openly discuss passions. Meraki is populated by passionate individuals, and interns are expected to demonstrate a similar level of enthusiasm for their work. Understanding that each team at Meraki operates slightly differently is also beneficial.

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