Technical Lead, Design and Architecture Engineer (R&D)
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. The Technical Lead for Design and Architecture drives research and development for optical modem projects. The role defines system requirements, architects next‑generation products, leads cross‑functional engineering teams, and serves as a primary technical interface for customers and partners. It translates business and customer needs into robust technical solutions while mentoring the broader technical community. How You Will Contribute: Provide strategic leadership for technical projects, ensuring delivery of defined outcomes while directing teams through advanced design and development activities by: Defining requirements for the optical modem and translating into technical specifications Architecting systems and assessing enabling hardware and software technologies Overseeing development progress to maintain alignment with the intended design Producing system requirements and technical documentation supporting product development Interacting with industry partners and customers through technical presentations Bridging the gap between customer needs, software development, and hardware capabilities Serving as a role model and mentor within the technical organization
Requirements
- Batchelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering required; Master’s degree preferred
- Ability to travel domestically or internationally as required
- 10+ years relevant experience in product definition and development with strong capabilities in:
- Coherent optical modem concepts and optical network architectures
- System design principles and methodologies for optical technologies
- Hardware and embedded software design fundamentals
- Network protocols including Ethernet and OTN
- Technical leadership and team‑oriented development practices
- Translating business requirements into technical solutions
- Strong verbal and written communication skills across multi‑site teams
Responsibilities
- Defining requirements for the optical modem and translating into technical specifications
- Architecting systems and assessing enabling hardware and software technologies
- Overseeing development progress to maintain alignment with the intended design
- Producing system requirements and technical documentation supporting product development
- Interacting with industry partners and customers through technical presentations
- Bridging the gap between customer needs, software development, and hardware capabilities
- Serving as a role model and mentor within the technical organization
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
