R&D AI Platform Engineer / Administrator
About The Position
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. Ciena is a global leader in high-speed connectivity, enabling innovation across optical networks, routing and switching, and network control systems. This role contributes to the "AI for Engineering" vision by advancing secure, on-premises AI capabilities for product development. The position plays a critical role in establishing and scaling an internal AI platform that supports innovation across Global R&D.
Requirements
- 3+ years of experience developing and administering on-premises AI/ML platforms
- Utilization of Kubernetes, Docker, and Linux environments (Oracle Linux exposure noted)
- Application of LLM serving frameworks such as SGLang or vLLM, orchestration layers including LiteLLM, and vector databases such as Milvus
- Implementation of observability solutions for AI workflows including Langfuse or Prometheus/Grafana
- Application of network security, container security, and data privacy practices in enterprise environments
- Ability to translate technical constraints into business-aligned outcomes for stakeholders
Nice To Haves
- Application of Atlassian tools including Agile Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket for project tracking and code management
- Application of private cloud architectures, including OpenStack-based environments
- Support of design workstations or CI/CD pipeline environments
Responsibilities
- Design and deploy on-premises AI infrastructure using Kubernetes and Docker to host open-source and open-weight models
- Implement and manage model serving solutions including SGLang to optimize inference performance on shared infrastructure
- Configure and maintain AI application stack components including LiteLLM, Open WebUI, Milvus, and Langfuse
- Ensure adherence to enterprise security policies to protect intellectual property and maintain compliance with R&D governance standards
- Collaborate with AI architects and product teams to identify requirements and deliver scalable platform capabilities
- Deliver documentation and guidance to enable internal users to effectively utilize AI platform services
Benefits
- 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
- vacation time
- Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
