Network Architect

Network Architect
Pay Range: $50/hour to $90/hour 

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Optical Architect to lead testing, certification, and lifecycle management of optical transport technologies across a large-scale core long-haul and metro network environment.

This role requires deep expertise in DWDM and optical transport systems, working across multi-vendor platforms to define standards, validate performance, and drive network evolution. The ideal candidate will operate as a subject matter expert supporting engineering, planning, and operations teams while contributing to roadmap development and next-generation optical solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Optical Testing and Certification

• Develop, execute, and document test plans for hardware and software certification
• Validate wavelength services across global network environments
• Ensure compliance with internal standards and OEM requirements

Architecture and Standards Development

• Define and publish design, configuration, and deployment standards
• Develop optical technology roadmap including hardware, software, and services lifecycle
• Align solutions with cross-functional and vendor capabilities

Troubleshooting and Network Optimization

• Diagnose and resolve complex optical network issues
• Recommend solutions for non-compliant configurations
• Support performance tuning and network optimization initiatives

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering, Planning, Service Delivery, and Operations teams
• Support implementation of new hardware and software solutions
• Provide escalation support for critical network issues

Vendor and Product Management

• Work with OEM vendors (Ciena, Infinera, Nokia, ADVA) on roadmaps and issue resolution
• Review technical bulletins and mitigate risks related to interoperability, security, and lifecycle
• Support development and enhancement of wavelength services

Documentation and Training

• Create and maintain technical documentation, standards, and processes
• Develop training materials and deliver knowledge transfer sessions
• Support continuous improvement through feedback and documentation updates

Automation and Lifecycle Management

• Develop scripts and processes for automation of provisioning, testing, and troubleshooting
• Support commissioning and lifecycle management of optical platforms
• Ensure data integrity across systems and documentation

Required Qualifications

• 5–8+ years of experience in optical transport, telecommunications, or service provider environments
• Strong expertise in DWDM technologies (fixed grid, flex grid)
• Experience with coherent and NRZ/IMDD transmission technologies
• Hands-on experience with multi-vendor optical platforms (Ciena, Infinera, Nokia, ADVA)
• Deep understanding of optical networking protocols (IP, Ethernet, OTN, SONET/SDH)
• Proven experience in testing, certification, and deployment of optical systems
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with open line systems and disaggregated transponders
• Familiarity with SDN controllers and network orchestration platforms
• Scripting and automation experience (Python, Shell, or similar)
• Lab testing and validation experience in optical environments
• Knowledge of network security architectures and requirements

Core Competencies

• Subject matter expertise in optical transport systems
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Ability to work across cross-functional teams and stakeholders
• Proactive problem-solving and bias for action

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Why This Role

This is an opportunity to work on cutting-edge optical networking technologies supporting large-scale, high-performance infrastructure. You will play a key role in shaping optical architecture, improving network performance, and driving innovation across next-generation transport networks.