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Dwdm System Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the ... Experience with Power systems and Network Timing * Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM ...

... architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the ... Experience with Power systems and Network Timing * Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM ...

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.

... architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the ... Experience with Power systems and Network Timing * Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM ...

Principal Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$118K - $156K/yr

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 ...

Network Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$76 - $101.75/hr

... system, OS, GPU, and HPC teams to deliver scalable, highly available networks for extreme ... IS-IS, DWDM. • Experience automating SDN/NFV/NFVI Infrastructure. • Experience using an ...

... architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the ... Experience with Power systems and Network Timing * Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM ...

... architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the ... Experience with Power systems and Network Timing * Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM ...

Solution Architect III

Dallas, TX · On-site

$62.25 - $82/hr

... longhaul DWDM transport elements, MPLS routed traffic, fixed fiber access, and metro Ethernet ... Familiarity with VzW systems such as Fuse, CND, NSP, SEV1, SANE, TWAMP, BRIX is a benefit. * Strong ...

Photonic Engineer, Senior

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$121K - $167K/yr

Collaborate cross-functionally with other designers, and systems teams in a DWDM transceiver ... and systems architects. - Works within the tape-out schedule, reticle area budget, and PDK ...

System Design Engineer

Coppell, TX · On-site

$108K - $154K/yr

Utilize network transition strategies to design optimal architecture for new products and platforms ... Prior experience in Provisioning, Installation, and Testing of DWDM systems is an advantage.

System Design Engineer

Coppell, TX · On-site +1

$98K - $135K/yr

Working knowledge of carrier-class networking architecture, including WDM, IP/MPLS/GMPLS/Ethernet ... Prior experience in Provisioning, Installation, and Testing of DWDM systems is an advantage.

Senior Lead Architect

$132K - $176K/yr

The Senior Lead Architect is trusted to think boldly, take ownership, and bring fresh ideas to ... Fluent in DWDM, Coherent Optics, ROADM/Open Line Systems, Optical performance modeling, and network ...

Photonic Engineer, Senior

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$121K - $167K/yr

Collaborate cross-functionally with other designers, and systems teams in a DWDM transceiver ... Has meaningful influence on component-level architecture and platform-direction discussions.

Senior Lead Architect

OR · Remote

$132K - $176K/yr

The Senior Lead Architect is trusted to think boldly, take ownership, and bring fresh ideas to ... Fluent in DWDM, Coherent Optics, ROADM/Open Line Systems, Optical performance modeling, and network ...

Senior Lead Architect

$132K - $176K/yr

The Senior Lead Architect is trusted to think boldly, take ownership, and bring fresh ideas to ... DWDM, Coherent Optics, ROADM/Open Line Systems, Optical performance modeling, and network ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Network Architect

Scott Air Force Base, IL • On-site

Leidos
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$59K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Our customer, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA-GLOBAL) at Scott AFB, il provides, operates, and assures command and control of the Defense Information System Network (DISN) services to its customers, the department of Defense (DoD) and national security organizations. This position directly supports the DISA-provided capabilities and services.

The Leidos Digital Modernization Sector/Global Solutions Management-Operations II (GSMO-II) contract has an opening for a Transport Network Engineer.  The Transport Network Engineer will perform sustainment, maintenance, Problem and Change management services to help ensure secure, reliable, and uninterrupted availability of the Department of Defense networks.

Responsible for performing the following duties:
Network design and engineering

  • Perform network management system design, develop Methods of Procedure, analysis, testing and/or modifications of architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the Engineering Review Board.
  • Implement new network hardware (shelves, cards) on operational nodes.
  • Deploy network changes - monitor for any impacts to customer traffic using provided expectations of traffic behavior, lessons learned, and customer reporting. 
  • Recommend to manager best practices for the operation and maintenance of the network.
  • Provide ad-hoc engineering support, statistics/data gathering, modeling, creating/updating flowcharts and providing recommendations to determine the most efficient configuration of the network based on Engineering documents and experience.
     

Provide Engineering Incident Management Escalation Support

  • Perform fault isolation, analysis, and troubleshooting across various Transport platforms including SONET Optical/Fiber Transport (ODXC/MSPP), Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), and cryptographic systems.
  • Engage with other Engineers (Transport, IP and Unified Capabilities), vendors, and customers to determine Root Cause Analysis.
  • Update ServiceNow tickets with accurate documentation
  • Provide situational awareness reporting to customer and management.
  • Provide accuracy in documenting the Mission Support Services (MSS) database to reflect the real time network. 
  • Support Authorized Service Interruption (ASI) Activities to collect site and device data to schedule maintenance windows, coordinating dispatch of technicians, and identifying availability of site personnel. 
  • Interact with Problem Coordinator and Government customer for troubleshooting and resolution of Problem Management candidate tickets.
  • Interact with vendor Technical Assistance Center (TAC) personnel to gather needed data to create hardware replacement order.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Currently possess an active Secret security clearance.
  • Currently possess DoD 8750 certification at IAT level II, Security+ CE or equivalent to meet requirement.
  • Proficient in one or more Transport platforms: CIENA 6500, CIENA Corestream, Cisco NCS2K, CISCO MSPP 15454/15310, SYCAMORE ODXC 16K/9K, XTERA, and other ancillary equipment.
  • Experience analyzing section, line, and path events on Optical networks 
  • Experience with end-to-end system loopback testing and troubleshooting on Transport networks.
  • Exposure to troubleshooting, assessment, root cause analysis, and restoration of Optical networks.
  • Experience working with service providers and/or enterprise Transport systems utilizing CISCO/CIENA devices. 
  • Experience with ports and protocols for DWDM and SONET technologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Equally proficient in Ciena and/or Cisco configuration, and troubleshooting, and design
  • Experience with Power systems and Network Timing
  • Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM) and Synchronous Optical Networks (SONET)
  • Possess understanding of Physical (Layer 1) and Data Link (Layer 2) network troubleshooting.
  • CIENA 6500 configuration, troubleshooting, and design experience.
  • CISCO 4200 configuration, troubleshooting, and design experience
  • CISCO NCS2K configuration, troubleshooting, and design experience.
  • Crypto configuration, troubleshooting and design experience.
  • Physical cable plant and wiring experience.
  • Excellent project, technical, interpersonal, presentation and problem management skills.
  • Extensive network integration experience for a variety of network protocol standards.
  • Ability to communicate orally, and in writing, detailed technical information on troubleshooting and implementation efforts.
  • Familiarization of DOD regulations and directives.

Required Education and Experience:

Requires BS degree and 2-4 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with less than 2 years of prior relevant experience. (Or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.)

GSMO

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:August 17, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $59,150.00 - $106,925.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.


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About Leidos

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At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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