Consultant Sales Engineer

Ciena; Greater London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Ciena is seeking a Consultant, Sales Engineering in the United Kingdom to bridge sales and technology, turning customer network requirements into differentiated, high‑value solutions. You will lead technical engagements across the full sales cycle, build durable customer relationships, and deliver compelling technical presentations that emphasize business value.

The role requires 10+ years in technical sales or sales engineering within telecoms or networking, with deep knowledge of optical

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in technical sales, sales engineering, or similar customer-facing technical role within telecoms or networking.
• Strong expertise in optical networking technologies and architectures.
• Experience engaging with customers on security-related topics, with understanding of how security requirements influence service provider network design, operations, and purchasing decisions.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with both technical and business stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience building and sustaining strong customer and cross-functional relationships.
• Excellent presentation and technical storytelling skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted technical advisor to service provider customers, building durable, value-based relationships
• Collaborate closely with sales teams to translate customer requirements into solution designs using Ciena’s portfolio
• Lead technical engagements across the sales cycle, including solution discussions, deep dives, and responses to RFQ/RFPs
• Deliver compelling technical presentations and demonstrations that communicate technical capabilities and business value
• Navigate complex technical challenges, providing clear recommendations and resolutions
• Be a security SME for regional sales organization
• Enable customers and internal teams through structured knowledge-transfer sessions
• Maintain awareness of market trends and portfolio evolution to articulate differentiated value

Skills

Technical sales

Optical networking

Security topics

Stakeholder communication

Presentation skills

Analytical thinking

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Computer Science

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well‑being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Consultant, Sales Engineering

Join Ciena as a Consultant, Sales Engineering, supporting a leading service provider customer in the United Kingdom. This role sits at the intersection of sales and technology, shaping customer outcomes by translating complex network requirements into differentiated, high‑value solutions. The position plays a visible role across the full sales cycle while building trusted, long‑term customer relationships.

How You Will Make An Impact

• Act as a trusted technical advisor to service provider customers, building durable, value‑based relationships
• Collaborate closely with sales teams to translate customer requirements into solution designs using Ciena’s portfolio
• Lead technical engagements across the sales cycle, including solution discussions, deep dives, and responses to requests for quotation (RFQ) and request for proposal (RFP)
• Deliver compelling technical presentations and demonstrations that communicate both technical capabilities and business value
• Navigate complex technical challenges, providing clear recommendations and resolutions
• Be a security SME for regional sales organization
• Enable customers and internal teams through structured knowledge‑transfer sessions
• Maintain strong awareness of market trends and portfolio evolution to articulate differentiated value

The Must Haves

• 10+ years of experience in technical sales, sales engineering, or a similar customer‑facing technical role within telecommunications or networking
• Strong expertise in optical networking technologies and architectures
• Experience engaging with customers on security‑related topics, with an understanding of how security requirements influence service provider network design, operations, and purchasing decisions.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with both technical and business stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience building and sustaining strong customer and cross‑functional relationships
• Excellent presentation and technical storytelling skills
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline

Nice To Haves

• Experience delivering technical demonstrations or proof‑of‑concept engagements for service provider customers
• Background in supporting complex deal negotiations and execution
• Experience facilitating enablement or training sessions for diverse technical audiences

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.