Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Ciena is a global leader in high-speed connectivity, committed to a people-first approach. The Optical Systems Product Line Manager drives the strategy and execution of industry-leading optical systems, influencing portfolio direction and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver sustained business growth.
Responsibilities
- Align optical systems products and portfolio strategy with market demand through direct engagement with customers and account teams
- Drive cross‑portfolio evolution in partnership with PLM leadership to support Ciena’s corporate growth objectives
- Optimize product and solution cost structures through collaboration with R&D, supply chain, and procurement teams
- Prioritize and sequence feature development with R&D to support timely and competitive product releases
- Establish and maintain pricing strategies in collaboration with sales teams and customers
- Articulate competitive differentiation through partnership with marketing to ensure clear positioning for sales, customers, and the financial community
- Lead cross‑functional collaboration across sales, marketing, and R&D to execute portfolio strategy and lifecycle plans
Skills
- Education: Master's degree in Electrical Engineering OR Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, with specialization in fiber optics, telecommunications, networking, or communications systems, or equivalent experience
- Experience: 5+ years of relevant industry experience with progressive responsibility in optical systems or related technologies
- Translation of portfolio strategy into actionable product requirements and release plans
- Definition and management of product roadmaps and R&D priorities to drive market share and revenue growth
- Execution of full product lifecycle management from concept through product retirement
- Development and communication of product value propositions to sales teams and customers
- Participation in lead customer engagements and key bid activities to support sales execution
- Education: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Background in optical fiber communications product development
- Experience leading new product introductions into customer environments
- Experience growing product revenue in competitive market conditions
- Application of program and project management practices across cross‑functional teams
- Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with customers and internal stakeholders
- Willingness to travel up to 25%
Benefits
- Discretionary incentive bonus
- Sales commission
- Medical, dental, and vision plans
- Participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching
- Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Company-paid holidays
- Paid sick leave
- Vacation time
- Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence
Company Overview