Optical Systems Architect - Hardware

Job Description

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 of novel optical DWDM communication systems. You will be responsible for architecting and implementing new optical hardware platforms in collaboration with our Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering and Software Development teams.

How You Will Contribute And What You Will Learn

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
• Developing key hardware specifications and baseline designs for new optical line system cards including optical amplifiers, ROADMs and optical multiplexers
• Owning the detailed hardware and software design documentation used by development, test and field teams. Reviewing with multi‑site engineering teams
• Supporting experimental analysis of component/module capabilities and technological feasibility of new platforms
• Demonstration of new optical transmission technologies to key customers

Key Skills And Experience

• Excellent foundational knowledge of DWDM systems, transmission fiber effects and how to consider them in a DWDM system design
• Deep technical knowledge of DWDM transmission system hardware, including EDFAs, Raman amplifiers, ROADMs, and multiplexers technologies.
• Experience with long haul optical link design including power budgets, OSNR calculations, and transmission penalties
• 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
• M.Sc. in Optics/Engineering/Physics + minimum 12 years of relevant work experience

About Us

Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we’re advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world. Learn more about life at Nokia.

Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you’re interested in this role but don’t meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia.