Optical Systems Architect

United States, California, San Jose 6373 San Ignacio Avenue (Show on map) Mar 05, 2026

In an increasingly connected world, the pandemic has highlighted just how essential telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart of a revolution to connectivity, pushing the boundaries to deliver more and faster network capacity to people worldwide through our ambition, innovation, and technical expertise

Join Optical Networks division, where innovation meets scale in the AI-driven data center era. With the recent acquisition of Infinera, we've united two industry leaders to create an optical networking powerhouse-combining cutting-edge technology with proven leadership to redefine the future of connectivity.

As part of Nokia's Optical Architecture group, you will have a unique opportunity to lead the design and architecture ofnovel optical DWDM communication systems. You will be responsible for architecting and implementing new optical hardware and software platforms in collaboration with our Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering and Software Development teams.

Your key responsibilities will include the technical leadership for a DWDM line system design, with following aspects: *

• Close alignment with Product Line Management on product requirements

• Architecture of a DWDM line system considering fiber and line systems elements' transmission characteristics, including signal power/OSNR evolution and fiber nonlinearities

• Architecture, design and validation of distributed, link-level optical line system control systems in close co-operation with SW development and test teams

• Development of system design rules and performance models

• Demonstration of new optical transmission technologies to key customers

• Excellent foundational knowledge of DWDM systems, transmission fiber effects and how to consider them in a DWDM system design

• Hands-on experience with DWDM transmission systems including coherent transponders, EDFAs, Raman amplifiers and ROADMs

• Working knowledge of closed loop and open loop control systems

• Knowledge of advanced coherent modulation formats including practical experience with their transmission in long haul systems

• Excellent communication and presentation skills

• Highly motivated team player adept at cross-functional, cross-cultural and international teamwork Education & Experience Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Optics/Engineering/Physics + minimum 8 years of relevant work experience