Optical Systems Software Architect
We are seeking an Optical Systems Software Architect to define the software architecture and control strategy for next-generation DWDM optical transport systems. In this role, you will translate complex photonic system behavior into scalable, software-driven architectures. You will work across systems, software, and hardware teams to ensure robust, high-performance control of optical line systems in carrier-grade networks.
What you'll do
- Define software architecture for Layer 0 control and management of optical transport systems (DWDM, ROADMs, line systems)
- Translate optical system requirements into software specifications, control models, and algorithms
- Define system behavior for optical power control, wavelength stability, and signal integrity
- Architect software-driven control loops for managing photonic components (lasers, VOAs, amplifiers, modulators)
- Collaborate with optical design teams to model and abstract physical-layer behavior into software systems
- Work closely with embedded/software teams to guide implementation and ensure architectural alignment
- Define interfaces for system control and observability (telemetry, alarms, performance monitoring)
- Contribute to fault, performance, and configuration management at Layer 0
- Support definition of protection and restoration strategies from a system behavior perspective
- Evaluate trade-offs between performance, scalability, cost, and operational complexity
- Drive alignment with industry standards (ITU-T, OpenROADM, OpenConfig, GMPLS)
- Produce clear architecture documentation, system models, and technical specifications
- Participate in cross-functional design reviews and technical decision-making
What you'll need to get the job done
- Strong background in software/system architecture for telecom or embedded systems
- Experience working with or modeling optical transport systems (DWDM, ROADMs, transponders)
- Understanding of Layer 0 (physical optical layer) concepts: optical power, wavelength control, signal propagation
- Experience defining or implementing control loops and system-level algorithms
- Familiarity with distributed systems or embedded software architectures
- Experience translating complex physical or hardware behavior into software abstractions and models
- Knowledge of telecom management domains: fault, performance, and configuration management
- Familiarity with network data models and interfaces (YANG, OpenConfig, TAPI, etc.)
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills across software, hardware, and systems teams
- Excellent communication and ability to drive technical alignment
What will make us REALLY love you
- Experience architecting software for photonic or optical control systems
- Background in control theory, signal processing, or system modeling
- Experience with large-scale optical deployments or carrier-grade systems
- Familiarity with AI/ML approaches for optical performance optimization
- Proven technical leadership across multi-disciplinary engineering teams
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