Nokia is seeking a Coherent Optical System Architect to join our Optical Systems Group (OSG). The engineer will be responsible for contributing to the development of leading coherent MODEMs based on Infinera's next-generation coherent photonic integrated circuits (PICs). The ideal candidate will be prepared to work with early prototype hardware to get an initial look at product performance and provide rapid feedback to the PIC and high-speed analog ASIC teams. Performance characterization will include MODEM SNR, OSNR tolerance, systematic breakdown of the MODEM impairment penalties, sensitivity studies and model alignment. OSG works closely with many parts of the company and the candidate should anticipate frequent interactions with the coherent ASIC team on coherent signal processing issues and ADC/DAC ENOB, with optical, high-speed analog ASIC, and systems engineering teams. A key component of this role is the ability to understand and make tradeoffs between optical, electrical, and digital capabilities in order to optimize the overall system performance.
Nokia’s next generation communications platform will be defined, developed, characterized, and optimized on your optical testbed. Your experimental data will fuel our design, starting with off-the-shelf components, evolving to prototype PICs, and eventually taking the form of the final integrated embedded systems or coherent pluggable modules. This requires ownership of the optical design, optimization methods, and stabilization techniques. One particular component of your research will be pushing our optical systems to higher baud rates.
Frequently used diagnosis capturing coherent waveforms on a high-speed oscilloscope and performing coherent signal processing on waveforms, and measuring bit-error rate performance in the presence of optical noise and other impairments. Of particular interest will be pushing to faster baud rates.
Through frequent interaction with the control & firmware teams, you will assist in optimizing performance-critical aspects such as powerup self-calibration, receive acquisition, real-time performance monitoring, and in-service performance optimization. These algorithms will be tested during the implementation stage to ensure they operate properly.
Results will be presented internally and documented as electrical and optical performance specifications for next-generation platforms.
Some customer-facing interactions may be required, such as field trials using prototype equipment, or debugging unusual field failures that cannot be resolved through the normal customer service process.
Qualifications- PhD. in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics with minimum of 3 years of industrial experience in optical communications, photonics, high speed electronics or systems.
- Fundamental understanding of optical communication systems, DWDM transmission systems, fiber transmission penalties, photonic integrated components, electronic (integrated) circuits, and signal analysis and processing.
- Hands-on experience working with system-level optical communication hardware and components.
- Extensive understanding of coherent communications systems, including experience with QPSK, 16QAM, and 64QAM, as well as coding and forward error correction algorithms.
- Experience characterizing high-speed RF and mm-wave interconnects, amplifiers, and components.
- Characterization of RF/mm-wave systems, such as S parameter measurements, jitter measurements, and ADC/DAC performance and ENOB
- Hands-on experience with high-speed optical and electrical test, and measurement equipment control and data acquisition.
- Programming experience in Matlab, Python, VB.net, or C desired.
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.
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.
- Flexible working arrangements to support work–life balance
- 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)
- Medical insurance plan and accident insurance to protect your health and well-being
- Pension plan, Time Saving Account, and Employee Saving Plan to support long-term financial security
- Transportation reimbursement
- Company car based on eligibility
- Well-being programs to support your mental and physical health
- Opportunities to engage with Nokia Employee Resource Groups (NERGs), as well as access to mentors, coaches, and Employee Growth Solutions
- A learning culture that promotes continuous personal and professional growth – for your role and beyond
Skills Required
- PhD in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics
- At least 3 years of industrial experience in optical communications, photonics, high-speed electronics, or systems
- Understanding of optical communication systems, DWDM transmission systems, fiber transmission penalties, photonic integrated components, electronic circuits, and signal analysis and processing
- Hands-on experience with system-level optical communication hardware and components
- Extensive understanding of coherent communications, including QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, coding, and forward error correction algorithms
- Experience characterizing high-speed RF and millimeter-wave interconnects, amplifiers, and components
- Experience with S-parameter measurements, jitter measurements, ADC/DAC performance, and ENOB
- Hands-on experience with high-speed optical and electrical test and measurement equipment control and data acquisition
- Programming experience in MATLAB, Python, VB.NET, or C
Nokia Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Nokia and has not been reviewed or approved by Nokia.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Equity programs include a global employee share purchase plan with company matching and multi‑year share awards. These mechanisms broaden participation and tie rewards to long‑term outcomes.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage includes major medical plans with supplementary options such as vision, legal services, and care navigation. The range of offerings indicates comprehensive support for medical needs.
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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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What We Do
At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. As a trusted partner for critical networks, we are committed to innovation and technology leadership across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. We create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. Adhering to the highest standards of integrity and security, we help build the capabilities needed for a more productive, sustainable and inclusive world.
