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. 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. Background: Generative AI is driving massive demand for Optical Communications. Optical Networks must dramatically scale capacity across a wide range of applications, from across the street, to across continents and oceans. These networks are expected to be deployed at an unprecedented scale and volume, creating critical challenges in terms of equipment power consumption, density, footprint, and thermal management. At the same time new expectations are being set on optical equipment manufacturability, deployment velocity, ease of maintenance and reliability. Reporting to the VP of Optical Networks, the Optical Networks Platform Architect will work with Ciena’s Systems, Hardware, Mechanical, Technology, and Product Integrity engineering teams, to develop innovative Optical Networks solutions that address these challenges and exploit new market opportunities. How You Will Contribute: Define a transformative platform technology and architecture vision aligned with Ciena’s Optical Networks long term product roadmap and evolving new market opportunities Evaluate, compare, and guide selection of technology and platform architecture options, including hybrid air/liquid cooled solutions, optical backplanes, and blind-mate optical connectors Collaborate with customers, suppliers, universities, and national labs to identify disruptive technologies Serve as a technical subject-matter expert supporting internal engineering teams, suppliers, and customer engagements Contribute to the growth of the organization by developing, mentoring, attracting, and retaining engineering talent The Must Haves: Strong background in Networking Systems design and operation Exceptional analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills Strong communication skills Expert collaboration skills and ability to work with and influence multi-function R&D teams to identify and solve complex problems Required Experience: Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering 10+ years of experience in Telecom and Data Center network equipment and system R&D leadership positions The annual salary range for this position is $200,400 - $320,000 CAD. 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. 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. Create an account to sign up for job alerts and be notified about new opportunities, customized for you. Dig deeper into who we are, what we do, and what you can expect as a member of our team. Meet the people who are shaping the future of communication and explore the culture we’ve built together at CienaLife.