Senior Optical Network Engineer

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact. How You Will Contribute:

• Lead the analysis of complex customer networks to identify solutions and design integration/conversion plans that meet customer requirements and business objectives.
• Architect and execute upgrades to customer in-service networks with zero service disruption, including channel additions, node insertions, traffic migrations, and hardware/software upgrades.
• Develop and own Engineering Method of Procedures (EMOP) documentation, ensuring precision and reliability during field execution for modernization projects.
• Strategize, plan, and oversee customer network modernization initiatives, ensuring seamless execution through the EMOP process.
• Provide expert-level technical solutions that align with customer needs, delivering maximum value while adhering to Ciena’s standards.
• Manage and deliver comprehensive network engineering documentation for customers through the Detailed Network Design service offering.
• Act as a trusted advisor to customers, leveraging deep technical expertise to guide decisions and ensure optimal network performance.

The Must Haves:

• 10+ years of experience in network engineering, with a strong focus on optical networking and telecom environments.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
• In-depth expertise with Ciena products such as 6500, RLS, and Waveserver, as well as hands-on experience in optical networking technologies.
• Proven track record of working in the telecom industry, with a deep understanding of carrier-grade networks and their operational challenges.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to customers and stakeholders effectively.
• Advanced systems-level understanding, with the ability to quickly learn and apply new concepts and technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and collaborate within high-performance teams, driving results in dynamic environments.
• Expert problem-solving skills, capable of diagnosing issues at the design level and translating solutions into actionable engineering deliverables.

Nice to Haves:

• A results-driven mindset with a strong sense of accountability and ownership.
• Self-motivated and customer-focused, with a passion for delivering world-class solutions.
• Broad knowledge of emerging technologies, services, and business trends within the telecom and optical networking space.
• Strong planning, organizational, and documentation skills, ensuring meticulous attention to detail.
• Resilience under pressure, with the ability to navigate high-stress situations involving live customer traffic, maintenance windows, and tight deadlines.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers and contributing to knowledge-sharing within the organization.

#LI-BS1 Pay Range: The annual pay range for this position is $96,900 - $154,700. Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available. Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence. Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community to get relevant job alerts straight to your inbox. At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination. Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job