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Dwdm System Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

Optical Systems Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$284K/yr

Architecture of a DWDM line system considering fiber and line systems elements' transmission characteristics, including signal power/OSNR evolution and fiber nonlinearities * * Architecture, design ...

Nokia

Optical Systems Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$147K - $274K/yr

Architecture of a DWDM line system considering fiber and line systems elements' transmission characteristics, including signal power/OSNR evolution and fiber nonlinearities * * Architecture, design ...

Viasat, Inc.

DWDM Optical Network Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

Applying your 5 years relevant work experience with multi-vendor network equipment to architect complex DWDM systems * Creating written network implementation design plans (e.g. Method-of-Procedures ...

Viasat, Inc.

DWDM Optical Network Engineer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

Applying your 5 years relevant work experience with multi-vendor network equipment to architect complex DWDM systems * Creating written network implementation design plans (e.g. Method-of-Procedures ...

Koch Industries

Optical System Test Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Define system architecture and collaborate with optical, mechanical, electrical, and firmware teams ... DWDM systems (fixed and flexible grid) * Coherent optical transmission systems * Optical ...

Viasat, Inc.

DWDM Optical Network Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

Applying your 5 years relevant work experience with multi-vendor network equipment to architect complex DWDM systems * Creating written network implementation design plans (e.g. Method-of-Procedures ...

Ropes & Gray

Senior Network Architect

Boston, MA · On-site

Oversee design, deployment, and maintenance of various network systems and components including ... Experience with Infoblox/BloxONE DNS and DHCP, Ciena DWDM, 10 Gig optics, DNS Traffic Control, F5 ...

Ropes & Gray

Senior Network Architect

Boston, MA · On-site

Oversee design, deployment, and maintenance of various network systems and components including ... Experience with Infoblox/BloxONE DNS and DHCP, Ciena DWDM, 10 Gig optics, DNS Traffic Control, F5 ...

Ropes & Gray

Senior Network Architect

Boston, MA

Oversee design, deployment, and maintenance of various network systems and components including ... Experience with Infoblox/BloxONE DNS and DHCP, Ciena DWDM, 10 Gig optics, DNS Traffic Control, F5 ...

Adtran

Principal Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA

This role is responsible for the architecture, design, validation, and production support of advanced optical networking products, including coherent transceivers, DWDM systems, and optical transport ...

Adtran

System Architecture Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled System Architecture Engineer to join our ... An innovative mindset to address the challenges of future DWDM transmission networks.

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Dwdm System Architect information

See salary details

$86.5K

$224.3K

$243.5K

How much do dwdm system architect jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dwdm system architect in the United States is $224,334.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $243,000.00 and $243,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DWDM system architect?

DWDM System Architects are professionals who design and oversee Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) systems used in optical fiber networks. They are responsible for planning and implementing scalable, high-capacity data transmission solutions that use multiple light wavelengths to transmit data simultaneously. Their role involves technical expertise in optical networking, hardware integration, and ensuring efficient and reliable network performance. DWDM System Architects work closely with engineers, project managers, and clients to develop customized networking solutions that meet specific requirements. This position is critical in industries where large volumes of data need to be transmitted quickly and securely over long distances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DWDM system architect?

To thrive as a DWDM System Architect, you need expertise in optical networking principles, DWDM technologies, and a degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or a related field. Familiarity with design tools like OptiSystem, network management platforms, and industry certifications such as Cisco or Nokia Optical certifications are often required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and translate technical requirements into robust network solutions. These skills ensure optimal network design, high reliability, and scalability to meet growing data transmission demands in modern telecom environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a DWDM system architect, and how can they be addressed?

As a DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) System Architect, one of the main challenges is designing scalable and robust optical networks that accommodate increasing bandwidth demands without compromising signal integrity. Ensuring seamless integration with existing legacy systems and addressing interoperability between multi-vendor equipment can also be complex. Staying current with evolving standards and troubleshooting advanced network issues requires strong analytical skills and close collaboration with network engineers, project managers, and vendors. Proactively engaging in continuous learning and leveraging vendor documentation can help mitigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Dwdm System Architect vs Dwdm Engineer?

AspectDwdm System ArchitectDwdm Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like CCNA, CCNP, or vendor-specific certificationsSimilar credentials as Dwdm System Architect, often with additional focus on technical certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign and plan DWDM network architectures, collaborate with teams, oversee implementationImplement, troubleshoot, and maintain DWDM systems, often working in labs or field environments
Industry UsageUsed in telecom providers, network solution companies, and large-scale data centersCommonly employed in telecom companies, network service providers, and infrastructure projects

The main difference between a Dwdm System Architect and a Dwdm Engineer lies in their focus: the architect designs and plans the overall DWDM network architecture, while the engineer handles the implementation and maintenance of the systems. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to telecom and networking industries.

What are popular job titles related to Dwdm System Architect jobs?

For Dwdm System Architect jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dwdm System Architect job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $224,334 per year, or $107.9 per hour.

Optical Systems Architect

San Jose, CA • On-site

Nokia
Media and Telecom • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Nokiaexternal

$284K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

In an increasingly connected world, the pandemic has highlighted just how essential telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart of a revolution to connectivity, pushing the boundaries to deliver more and faster network capacity to people worldwide through our ambition, innovation, and technical expertise

Join Optical Networks division, where innovation meets scale in the AI-driven data center era. With the recent acquisition of Infinera, we've united two industry leaders to create an optical networking powerhouse-combining cutting-edge technology with proven leadership to redefine the future of connectivity.
As part of Nokia's Optical Architecture group, you will have a unique opportunity to lead the design and architecture ofnovel optical DWDM communication systems. You will be responsible for architecting and implementing new optical hardware and software platforms in collaboration with our Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering and Software Development teams. 

    • Excellent foundational knowledge of DWDM systems, transmission fiber effects and how to consider them in a DWDM system design 

    • Hands-on experience with DWDM transmission systems including coherent transponders, EDFAs, Raman amplifiers and ROADMs 

    • Working knowledge of closed loop and open loop control systems 

    • Knowledge of advanced coherent modulation formats including practical experience with their transmission in long haul systems 

    • Excellent communication and presentation skills 

    • Highly motivated team player adept at cross-functional, cross-cultural and international teamwork
      Education & Experience Requirements: 

    • Ph.D. in Optics/Engineering/Physics + minimum 8 years of relevant work experience 

Your key responsibilities will include the technical leadership for a DWDM line system design, with following aspects: 

    • Close alignment with Product Line Management on product requirements 

    • Architecture of a DWDM line system considering fiber and line systems elements' transmission characteristics, including signal power/OSNR evolution and fiber nonlinearities 

    • Architecture, design and validation of distributed, link-level optical line system control systems in close co-operation with SW development and test teams 

    • Development of system design rules and performance models 

    • Demonstration of new optical transmission technologies to key customers 

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