Associate Operations Engineer Jobs in Issaquah, WA

Associate Customer Engineer - Network
Nexthop AI | Bellevue, WA | Full-Time / New Grad
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About Nexthop AI
Nexthop AI is building the most efficient AI networking infrastructure for the world's largest cloud operators. We design and deliver the hardware, software, and systems that power hyperscale AI deployments. We're a fast-moving, ambitious team solving hard problems at the forefront of AI infrastructure. If that excites you, learn more at nexthop.ai.
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The Role
We're looking for a driven, bilingual (Mandarin/English) new grad or recent graduate to join our Customer Engineering team in Bellevue, WA. In this role, you'll work at the intersection of cutting-edge networking technology. You'll be hands-on from day one: building and testing network architectures, writing automation scripts, supporting customer proof-of-concepts, and serving as a technical bridge between Nexthop's engineering team and our hyperscaler partners. This is a foundational engineering role for someone who wants to understand how AI-scale networks are designed, built, and operated - and who wants to help shape that future.

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What You'll Do

• Design, implement, and optimize scalable network architectures in lab and production settings
• Configure and troubleshoot routing, switching, and data center technologies
• Develop automation scripts for configuration, monitoring, and diagnostics (Python, Bash)
• Work directly with hyperscaler engineering teams - conducting real-time technical syncs, code reviews, and project scoping sessions in both Mandarin and English
• Support customers through proof-of-concept, early trials, and production/escalation support
• Document solutions and present technical findings to engineering peers and stakeholdersHelp shape what this team looks like - we're building the culture as we go

What You Bring

Must-Have:

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a graduate-level program in network engineering, computer science, computer engineering, internetworking or relevant with a focus on hands-on, lab-based learning
• Knowledge of TCP/IP, routing protocols, switching technologies, and network security concepts
• Bilingual Technical Proficiency: Full professional fluency in both Mandarin and English (written and verbal). This is a strict business necessity as the role requires leading real-time technical syncs, performing code reviews, and negotiating project scopes directly with our APAC-based engineering teams and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in at least one scripting or programming language (e.g., Python, Bash)
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills

Nice-to-Have:

• Experience with Linux system administration
• Familiarity with SDN platforms, network automation tools, or simulation software
• Exposure to multi-vendor networking environments (e.g., Cisco, Juniper, Arista)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
  

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience designing and operating real-world hyperscale networking infrastructure
• Mentorship from some of the most experienced engineers in the AI networking space
• Real ownership and impact from day one - this is a startup, not a rotation program
• Skill growth in network automation, architecture, and large-scale operational practices
• A front-row seat to building a company at the frontier of AI infrastructure

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Employment
Full-Time: Associate-level, full-time role based in Bellevue, WA (Richmond area)
This role is on-site; candidates must be located in or willing to relocate to the greater Seattle/Bellevue area

Learn More

• Company Launch Press Release
• CEO Anshul Sadana on theCUBE
• The Hyperscaler Paradox - Build, Buy or Partner?

To apply or learn more: careers@nexthop.ai