Product Manager (Lab & Production)

VIAVI Solutions; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking a Product Line Manager in Ottawa, Ontario. This role requires expertise in fiber optics and product lifecycle management. The ideal candidate will lead cross-functional initiatives, define product roadmaps, and drive innovation in a dynamic global environment. Master's degree in engineering or physics and over 5 years of relevant experience required. Join a passionate team committed to customer success.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in fiber optics or telecommunications.
• Proven track record in product lifecycle management.
• Experience working in a global, matrixed organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional initiatives in R&D, sales, and business development.
• Define product roadmaps and guide test application development.
• Drive the development of fiber optic test solutions.

Skills

Fiber optics

Telecommunications

Product lifecycle management

Excellent communication

Interpersonal abilities

Education

Advanced degree in engineering or physics

Job description

Overview

Summary: VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications. We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company – to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.

We are seeking a Product Line Manager in our Lab & Production Test Technology group with a strong technical foundation in science or engineering, ideally with expertise in fiber optics and optical communications. The individual should be ready to take on a strategic role at the intersection of technology, product lifecycle management, and commercial execution. This position is ideal for a candidate who thrives in a dynamic, global environment and is passionate about driving innovation, shaping product strategy, and enabling business growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional initiatives involving R&D, sales, and business development, ensuring alignment between technical capabilities and market needs.
• Play a pivotal role in defining product roadmaps, guiding test application development, and influencing business decisions through data-driven insights and financial analysis.
• Cultivate collaboration with a collaborative leadership style, with excellent communication skills, a proactive mindset, and a strong sense of ownership; navigate complex technical challenges while managing stakeholder expectations and driving business outcomes.
• Lead product line initiatives across global teams, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals.
• Drive the development and deployment of fiber optic test solutions in collaboration with R&D and solution consultants.
• Act as a technical and commercial liaison between internal teams and key customers.
• Influence product strategy through market analysis, customer feedback, and ROI assessments.
• Champion the use of business systems and data analytics to support decision-making.
• Actively support and monitor R&D programs.

Requirements

Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:

Required Skills & Experience:

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, or relevant job experience
• 5+ years of experience in fiber optics, telecommunications, or related industries.
• Proven track record in product lifecycle management and/or product marketing
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience working in a global, matrixed organization.
• Ability to travel internationally (up to 30%).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with manufacturing test systems in the communications sector.
• Familiarity with business systems and data-driven product management.
• Strategic mindset with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.

Location: Ottawa, Ontario (Viavi Office)

Travel: Up to 30% international

If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.

VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer – minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.