Sr Network Engineer

The Senior Network Engineer is a critical member of the Architecture, Engineering, and Technology Support (AET) team, responsible for ensuring the reliability, performance, and scalability of the access and transport network. This role is primarily focused on Optical Line Terminal (OLT) and Optical Network Terminal (ONT) testing, validation, and certification, as well as providing Tier 4 operational support for complex network incidents and systemic issues. 

This position partners closely with network architecture, engineering, operations, vendors, and field teams to validate new platforms, technologies, and configurations while serving as the highest level of escalation for network failures. The Senior Network Engineer is expected to operate with minimal supervision, apply deep technical expertise, and influence network design and operational best practices. 

Network Design and Architecture 

• Partner with Network Architecture teams to review, validate, and influence access network designs, ensuring scalability, reliability, and operational soundness. 

• Provide technical input and recommendations for network architectures based on lab testing, field performance, and operational experience. 

• Evaluate design risks and propose mitigation strategies related to access and transport network deployments. 

Network Test Automation/API Development & Integration 

• Possess strong networking expertise, Python development skills, API integration experience, and hands-on knowledge of automation frameworks and CI/CD practices.  

• Responsibilities include developing network test scripts, automating validation processes, integrating network testing through APIs, and supporting automation across on-premises and cloud environments. 

• Experience with OpenAPI/Swagger specifications. 

• API testing using Postman, or similar tools. 

• Experience with Git-based source control systems. 

Implementation and Configuration 

• Lead and support configuration standards for OLTs and ONTs, including profiles, service models, firmware, and integration into production networks. 

• Support implementation efforts by validating configuration templates, provisioning workflows, and deployment readiness. 

• Ensure configurations align with architectural intent, operational requirements, and industry best practices. 

Technology Evaluation 

• Plan, execute, and document OLT and ONT testing, including lab validation, interoperability testing, performance benchmarking, and feature certification. 

• Validate new hardware platforms, software releases, firmware updates, and network features prior to production deployment. 

• Collaborate with vendors on testing outcomes, defect resolution, firmware improvements, and roadmap alignment. 

• Define acceptance criteria and certification requirements for new access network technologies and vendors. 

Collaboration and Coordination 

• Work cross-functionally with Architecture, Engineering, Operations, IT, and Field teams to ensure seamless technology introduction and operational readiness. 

• Function as a technical liaison between internal teams and external vendors during testing, deployment, and issue resolution. 

• Mentor junior engineers and operations staff on advanced networking concepts, testing methodologies, and troubleshooting approaches. 

• Produce and maintain high-quality technical documentation, including test plans, test results, operational procedures, and troubleshooting guides. 

Tier 4 Operational Support 

• Serve as Tier 4 escalation for complex, high-impact network incidents affecting access and transport networks. 

• Perform deep root cause analysis (RCA) across hardware, software, configuration, and process domains. 

• Drive long-term corrective and preventive actions to eliminate chronic issues and improve overall network stability. 

• Participate in post-incident reviews and recommend architectural, configuration, or operational improvements. 

Project Management 

• Manage and contribute to cross-functional initiatives related to network testing, technology introduction, and reliability improvement. 

• Coordinate timelines, deliverables, and dependencies for testing and validation activities. 

• Track risks, issues, and action items, ensuring timely resolution and clear communication to stakeholders. 

• Participate in change management processes, including change reviews, deployment planning, and go-live readiness assessments. 

• Expert-level knowledge of fiber access networks and Passive Optical Network (PON) technologies such as GPON, XGS-PON, and 10G PON.  

• Strong direct experience with OLT and ONT platforms, lifecycle management, provisioning models, and firmware management.  

• Advanced understanding of IP networking concepts, including routing, switching, VLANs, QoS, multicast, and network security fundamentals.  

• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues in large-scale, carrier-grade environments.  

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate technical findings into actionable recommendations.  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence across teams and organizational boundaries.  

• Initiative-taking and capable of managing multiple priorities with minimal supervision. 

Education 

• Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA) in Engineering, Information Systems, or related field desired. 

• Equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. 

Experience  

Required Experience 

• 3+ years in network engineering, architecture, or infrastructure-focused roles. 

• Experience supporting production networks at Tier 3 or Tier 4 escalation levels.  

• Direct experience testing, validating, and supporting network hardware and software. 

• Direct experience with OLT/ONT testing, certification, and operational support.  

• Experience in broadband, fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP), or service provider access networks.  

Preferred Experience 

• Familiarity with test automation, scripting, or structured testing frameworks.  

• Industry certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, JNCIP, JNCIE, or equivalent.