Project Specialist I (Full-Time) - United States at Cisco · Chicago

Summary: Cisco is a leader in innovating solutions that connect and protect organizations in the AI era. They are seeking a Project Specialist I to play an integral role in project management, collaborating with cross-functional teams to tie project outcomes to business goals and improve market positioning. Responsibilities: - Collaborate with cross-functional teams and strive for business efficiency - You will be involved in the definition, planning, management, and deliverables of various projects - Execute proven project management methodologies to drive long-term opportunities that improve and transform the business - Support all phases of the project lifecycle—from quantitative and qualitative analysis to forecasting market trends—identifying risks, closing process gaps, and championing innovation and operational excellence - Assist in process implementation planning and support the evolution of change management practices - Work closely with partners to develop innovative solutions - Optimize internal and external processes, policies, and tools, ensuring the best possible cost, quality, and delivery outcomes for Cisco products Required Qualifications: - Completion within the past 3 years, or current enrollment with expected completion within 12 months, of a certification or relevant degree program (e.g., Associates, Apprenticeship, Boot Camp, or Certification in a specialized program + 1 year of relevant experience, High School Diploma + 2 years of relevant experience) or Bachelors + 0 years of relevant experience. Relevant fields include: Business, Supply Chain, Communications, Mathematics, Finance, Industrial Engineering, Statistics, etc - Self-Starter: Proven track record of initiating and leading projects, such as starting organizations, conferences, competitions, or publications, showcasing entrepreneurial spirit and initiative - Leadership Experience: Demonstrated leadership abilities through roles in student organizations, or significant involvement in extracurricular activities - Strong Attention to Detail: Exceptional spelling and grammar skills, ensuring high-quality and error-free content in all communications - Able to legally live and work in the country for which you're applying, without visa support or sponsorship Required Skills: Project Management Important Skills: Business Analysis, Change Management Nice-to-Have Skills: Leadership Experience Benefits: Medical, dental and vision insurance, 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 for non-exempt employees, 1 paid day off for employee’s birthday, Paid year-end holiday shutdown, 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco, 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees, Flexible vacation time off program, which has no defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use (subject to availability and some business limitations), 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, Up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next, Additional paid time away may be requested to deal with critical or emergency issues for family members, Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer, Annual bonuses subject to Cisco’s policies, Performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary