Optical Product Line Manager

Description

We are looking for an experienced Optical Product Line Manager to own the end-to-end product lifecycle for Zhone DWDM optical networking products. This role is responsible for defining product strategy, roadmap, and execution for solutions supporting 100G, 400G, and 800G networks, with strong alignment to IP and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architectures. The ideal candidate combines deep technical understanding of optical and IP networks with strong product management and cross-functional leadership skills

Key Responsibilities:

• Own the product lifecycle from concept, requirements, and roadmap through launch, sustainment, and end-of-life
• Define product vision and strategy for DWDM optical transport products supporting 100G / 400G / 800G coherent technologies
• Develop and maintain multi-year product roadmaps aligned with market trends, customer needs, and technology evolution
• Translate market and customer requirements into product requirements documents (PRDs) and feature definitions
• Work closely with R&D, hardware, software, and TQA teams to ensure on-time and on-spec delivery
• Ensure strong integration between optical transport, Optical (PON) Access, and SDN-based control and management
• Drive adoption of model-driven management using NETCONF/YANG and automation frameworks
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and customer teams to support product positioning, technical enablement, and customer engagements
• Perform competitive analysis and continuously assess market, technology, and standards trends
• Support product launch activities, documentation, training, and customer feedback loops

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (MBA or advanced degree is a plus)
• 7+ years of experience in product management, product line management, or technical leadership roles in optical networking
• Strong understanding of DWDM optical transport systems, including ROADM architectures and coherent optics
• Knowledge of 100G / 400G / 800G optical technologies and deployment considerations
• Prior experience managing products for global telecom or hyperscale customers
• Familiarity with carrier-class service provider environments
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to network automation, telemetry, and orchestration platforms
• Experience with IP networking, including routing and IP-over-optical architectures
• Solid understanding of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) concepts and architectures
• Familiarity with NETCONF/YANG, OpenConfig, and model-driven network management

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.

What happens once you apply?  Your resume will be reviewed against the requirements listed and if a match is made, a member of our team will reach out to you directly. Hiring top talent is our top priority and we are thrilled that you chose us.

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.

We do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants. However, please be aware that some third-party tools we use in our recruiting and selection process may incorporate AI technology. This job posting is being issued to fill a current vacancy, all interested applicants are encouraged to apply.