The Optical Networks System & Automation group develops pluggable transceiver modules for coherent optical fiber transmission. The applications include Communication Service Provider (CSP) network node as well as intra and inter data center connections. Our team is part of a module development team comprising hardware development, full custom ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) design, experts for optical components and firmware (FW) development. We are closely working together with all functions required from the product definition to manufacturing.
We are expanding our firmware (FW) team and looking for highly motivated engineers to join us in developing the next generations of transmission systems. The FW team is responsible for designing, integrating, and verifying all software parts required for an optical coherent transceiver module. This includes software targeting a complex multi-processor system embedded in custom hardware, low level driver software, algorithms controlling optical components and the digital signal processor, higher layer control software and the management interface application.
Responsibilities- Design, implement, and verify embedded firmware for coherent optical modules.
- Develop firmware for multi‑processor embedded systems in highly resource‑constrained environments.
- Implement low-level drivers and control software for optical and electrical components (e.g. ADC/DAC, lasers, modulators, TIAs, EDFA).
- Develop and optimize control loops for coherent optics, including power, wavelength, and modulator control.
- Integrate firmware with hardware during bring-up and lab validation of optical modules.
- Analyze and debug complex system-level issues in close collaboration with hardware, optics, factory, and validation teams.
- Support verification, test, and customer-facing teams with firmware expertise and root cause analysis.
- Cover systems engineering aspects and documentation (collect and understand feature requirements and work out implementation details).
- Work in a highly specialized lab environment (setup of first hardware samples, assembly of test setups for specific components, debugging using logic. analyzers, oscilloscopes, and debuggers; on‑site presence required based on project needs).
- Work in an agile (SCRUM-based) development environment.
- Apply AI-assisted tools responsibly to accelerate firmware development, root cause analysis, and test automation while ensuring correctness, safety, and maintainability.
Must have:
- Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field (or Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of relevant experience).
- Solid professional experience in embedded firmware development.
- Profound knowledge of C and C++ with a strong understanding of embedded programming concepts.
- Experience with revision control systems (e.g. Git, Gerrit, Bitbucket).
- Experience with real-time operating systems and embedded multi-core or multi-processor systems.
- Hands-on experience with embedded interfaces such as I²C, SPI, UART, MDIO, PCIe, or similar.
- Strong analytical skills and a structured approach to debugging complex HW/SW systems.
- Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines, containerized environments, test automation, and scripting (e.g. Python).
- Experience in working in an Agile/Scrum environment, ideally in a Scrum Master role.
- Team-oriented working style with strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with multi-site, cross-functional, international teams.
- Self-driven mindset and ability to quickly learn complex systems.
Fluent English (spoken and written) and intermediate German (spoken and written, at least B1–B2 preferred, with the aim to become fluent).
Nice to have:
- Understanding of OTN/DWDM network architectures and the role of coherent pluggable modules in optical transport systems.
- Knowledge of DSP concepts for coherent optics (e.g. modulation formats, equalization, impairment compensation, performance monitoring).
- Knowledge of Ethernet standards and protocols (e.g. 400G/800G Ethernet, PCS, FEC, link bring-up, and interoperability) and their interaction with coherent optical modules.
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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.
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- A minimum of 90 days of Maternity and Paternity Leave, with the option to return to work within a year following the birth or adoption of a child (based on eligibility)
- Life insurance to all employees to provide peace of mind and financial security
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Skills Required
- Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field (or Bachelor's with 5+ years experience)
- Solid professional experience in embedded firmware development
- Profound knowledge of C and C++
- Experience with revision control systems like Git
- Experience with real-time operating systems
- Experience with multi-core or multi-processor systems
- Hands-on experience with embedded interfaces (I²C, SPI, UART, etc.)
- Strong analytical skills for debugging complex systems
- Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and test automation
- Fluent in English and intermediate German
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Parental & Family Support — A global policy grants paid leave for new parents regardless of gender and provides structured return‑to‑work support. Company‑paid life insurance further strengthens family protection across regions.
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