We are seeking a highly experienced Senior System Architect to lead the architecture, design, and evolution of Zhone next-generation optical transport and broadband access network products. The ideal candidate will have deep experience with high-capacity DWDM systems (100G/400G/800G), PON access technologies, and IP network architectures, along with familiarity with network programmability and automation.

This role requires a combination of technical leadership, system-level thinking, and cross-domain expertise spanning optical, broadband access, IP, and software-defined networking.

This hybrid role combines product ownership with technical solution design, supporting both internal development and external customer engagements. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a strong technical background and understanding of the business requirements.

Key Responsibilities

- Define and drive the product strategy and architecture for Optical Transport, OLT and ONT platforms.
- Help architect and design DWDM optical network products supporting 100G, 400G, and 800G coherent interfaces.
- Help architect and design GPON and XGS‑PON broadband network products, including OLT/ONTs.
- Lead adoption of Software‑Defined Networking (SDN) architectures and define management, control, and automation frameworks using NETCONF/YANG and related models.
- Evaluate vendor solutions, reference designs, and interoperability across multi‑vendor environments.
- Provide technical leadership, design reviews, and architectural guidance across programs and teams.
- Support customer engagements, technical proposals, and roadmap discussions as a subject‑matter expert.
- Ensure product and solution alignment with industry standards (ITU, IEEE, BBF) and regulatory guidelines.

Requirements

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering,



Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
- 10+ years of experience in system architecture or senior technical roles in optical, broadband, or IP networking.
- Strong expertise in DWDM optical transport networks (ROADM‑based architectures, coherent optics, amplification).
- Strong experience with 100G / 400G / 800G optical interfaces and network design considerations.
- Deep knowledge of GPON and XGS‑PON technologies, architectures, and deployment models.
- Solid understanding of IP networking and IP‑over‑optical integration.
- Practical experience with NETCONF/YANG and model‑driven network management.
- Ability to work across cross‑functional teams and influence technical direction.

Preferred Qualifications

- Knowledge of network automation, telemetry, and closed‑loop control.
- Familiarity with SDN/NFV, virtualization, or cloud‑native network functions.
- Prior experience working with service providers or large‑scale carrier networks.
- Prior experience representing Company/Technology in Industry and Technology Standards Forums.

Perks

Benefits for full‑time employees include an extended health care plan, dental, vision, life, dependent life, disability insurance, retirement savings plan, $500 wellness benefit, employee assistance program, and paid time off.

Zhone Technologies is an equal opportunity employer for all job applicants and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics. Encouraging a diverse and inclusive organization is core to our values and is why we nurture it in everything we do. We believe that a diverse workforce brings new perspectives that enhance our teams, bring creativity, and inspire innovation. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know during the application process.

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📌 Senior System Architect (Ottawa)
🏢 DZS
📍 Ottawa