Product Line Manager, AI-Driven SDN & Optical Networking

Ciena; United States; On-site; USD 80,505 - 128,625; Full time

Job summary

Ciena is seeking a Product Line Manager to shape the SDN controller platform applications, guiding strategy and execution for network planning, operations, and optimization. You will translate market needs into actionable requirements and drive high-impact software releases with cross-functional teams.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in networking product management, strong IP/Optical expertise, and a proven record in AIOps-driven design.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in product management or technical roles within the networking industry.
• Deep expertise in IP and optical transport technologies and network planning processes.
• Proven experience leading Telco software applications from concept through market adoption.
• Strong background in Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps), network design, and optimization.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with agile software development teams.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and align stakeholders across functions.

Responsibilities

• Drive product strategy and roadmap execution for SDN controller platform applications, with a focus on network planning, operations, and optimization capabilities.
• Translate customer needs, market insights, and technology trends into clear, prioritized product requirements.
• Lead initiatives across AI for IT Operations (AIOps) and Network Digital Twin technologies to improve operational efficiency and accuracy.
• Partner closely with R&D, Hardware, Navigator development, sales, and support teams to deliver differentiated, high-quality software releases.
• Enable successful go-to-market execution through customer engagement, sales training, and technical presentations.
• Represent the product line externally at industry events while maintaining deep awareness of competitive dynamics and emerging trends.
• Use product performance metrics and customer feedback to continuously refine features and user experience.

Skills

AIOps

IP & Optical

Agile

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in CS/EE/Telecom

Job description

Ciena is seeking a Product Line Manager to shape the SDN controller platform applications, guiding strategy and execution for network planning, operations, and optimization. You will translate market needs into actionable requirements and drive high-impact software releases with cross-functional teams.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in networking product management, strong IP/Optical expertise, and a proven record in AIOps-driven design.