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Software Defined Networking Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

$143K - $168K/yr

Lead adoption of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architectures and Define management, control, and automation frameworks using NETCONF/YANG, and related models * Evaluate vendor solutions ...

Interest in network automation, software-defined networking, or telecom technologies * Take ownership of assigned customer issues from initial triage through to resolution, ensuring consistent ...

Senior Network Consultant

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$80K - CA$105K/yr

Software-defined Networking (SDN) What Makes You Extra Awesome: * Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) * Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) * Cisco Certified InterNetwork Expert (CCIE ...

25-183 - Kubernetes Engineer

Oshawa, ON · On-site +1

$60 - $85/hr

Must have experience around software defined networking and familiar with service mesh like Istio, Envoy, etc Build & manage IaC modules to provision and maintain infrastructure using tools like ...

Senior Network Consultant

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$80K - CA$105K/yr

Software-defined Networking (SDN) What Makes You Extra Awesome: * Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) * Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) * Cisco Certified InterNetwork Expert (CCIE ...

Must have experience around software defined networking and familiar with service mesh like Istio, Envoy, etc * Build & manage IaC modules to provision and maintain infrastructure using tools like ...

DCS, IT Design Specialist

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$72K - CA$92K/yr

Software Defined Network (SDN) solutions (e.g. VMWare NSX, Cisco); SD-WAN solutions; Salary Range: $72,000 - $92,000 The Company provides an extensive benefits program for all full-time employees ...

... cloud networking, including AWS VPCs, TGW routing, VPN connectivity, and secure integration with on‑prem networks * Hands‑on experience with software defined network concepts, including:

New

... Networking Technology, or related field. What's in it for you? * While our focus is on finding someone to strengthen our team's technical bench on cloud and software defined data centre technologies ...

... software-defined vehicles. What You'll Work On * Design automotive-grade embedded hardware ... networking * Experience supporting hardware from prototype through production launch * Comfortable ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Defined Networking information

See Ontario salary details

$36.5K

$150K

$201.5K

How much do software defined networking jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for software defined networking in Ontario is $150,047.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $179,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is software defined networking (SDN)?

Software Defined Networking (SDN) is a network architecture approach that separates the control plane from the data plane in networking equipment. This means that the network intelligence and policy-making are centralized in a software-based SDN controller, rather than being distributed across individual hardware devices. SDN allows for easier network management, programmability, and automation, making it possible to quickly adapt to changing business needs and optimize network resources. Organizations use SDN to improve network efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enable innovation in network services.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in software defined networking (SDN)?

Professionals in Software Defined Networking often encounter challenges such as integrating SDN solutions with existing legacy infrastructure, ensuring network security in dynamically programmable environments, and keeping up with rapidly evolving protocols and technologies. Collaboration between network engineers, software developers, and IT security teams is critical for successful deployment and management of SDN systems. Staying current with industry standards and effective troubleshooting are also important daily aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software defined networking (SDN) engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer, you need a strong background in computer networking, programming (such as Python or Java), and a relevant degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Familiarity with SDN controllers (like OpenDaylight or ONOS), virtualization platforms, and certifications such as Cisco CCNP or equivalent are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help set professionals apart in designing and managing complex, dynamic networks. These skills and qualifications are vital for building scalable, automated networks that support business agility and innovation.

What is the difference between Software Defined Networking vs Network Engineer?

AspectSoftware Defined NetworkingNetwork Engineer
Primary FocusAutomating and centralizing network management through softwareDesigning, implementing, and maintaining physical and virtual networks
Required SkillsNetworking protocols, virtualization, scripting, software developmentNetworking protocols, hardware configuration, troubleshooting
CertificationsCisco CCNA/CCNP, VMware, Cisco DevNetCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentData centers, cloud environments, software development teamsCorporate offices, data centers, client sites

While Software Defined Networking focuses on software-based network management and automation, Network Engineers handle the physical and virtual network infrastructure. Both roles require networking knowledge, but SDN emphasizes programming and software skills, whereas Network Engineers focus on hardware and network configuration.

What are popular job titles related to Software Defined Networking jobs in Ontario?

For Software Defined Networking jobs in Ontario, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Defined Networking jobs in Ontario look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Defined Networking jobs in Ontario are:

What cities in Ontario are hiring for Software Defined Networking jobs?

Cities in Ontario with the most Software Defined Networking job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Defined Networking job openings in Ontario as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,047 per year, or $72.1 per hour.

Senior System Architect

On-site

$143K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the architecture, design, and evolution of optical transport and broadband access network products.

  • Help architect and design DWDM optical network products supporting high-capacity interfaces and broadband network products including OLT/ONTs.

  • Support customer engagements, technical proposals, and roadmap discussions as a subject-matter expert.


Job description

Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior System Architect to lead the architecture, design, and evolution of Zhone next-generation optical transport and broadband access network products. The ideal candidate will have deep experience with high-capacity DWDM systems (100G/400G/800G), PON access technologies, and IP network architectures, along with familiarity with network programmability and automation.


This role requires a combination of technical leadership, system-level thinking, and cross-domain expertise spanning optical, broadband access, IP, and software-defined networking.


This hybrid role combines product ownership with technical solution design, supporting both internal development and external customer engagements. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a strong technical background and understanding of the business requirements.


Key Responsibilities:

Product Strategy & Technical Leadership:

  • Define and drive the product strategy and architecture for Optical Transport, OLT and ONT platforms.
  • Help Architect and design DWDM optical network products supporting 100G, 400G, and 800G coherent interfaces
  • Help Architect and design GPON and XGS-PON broadband network products, including OLT/ONTs.
  • Lead adoption of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architectures and Define management, control, and automation frameworks using NETCONF/YANG, and related models
  • Evaluate vendor solutions, reference designs, and interoperability across multi-vendor environments
  • Provide technical leadership, design reviews, and architectural guidance across programs and teams
  • Support customer engagements, technical proposals, and roadmap discussions as a subject-matter expert
  • Ensure product and solution alignment with industry standards (ITU, IEEE, BBF) and regulatory guidelines.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience in system architecture or senior technical roles in optical, broadband, or IP networking
  • Strong expertise in DWDM optical transport networks (ROADM-based architectures, coherent optics, amplification)
  • Strong experience with 100G / 400G / 800G optical interfaces and network design considerations
  • Deep knowledge of GPON and XGS-PON technologies, architectures, and deployment models
  • Solid understanding of IP networking and IP-over-optical integration
  • Practical experience with NETCONF/YANG, and model-driven network management
  • Ability to work across cross-functional teams and influence technical direction

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of network automation, telemetry, and closed-loop control
  • Familiarity with SDN/NFV, virtualization, or cloud-native network functions.
  • Prior experience working with service providers or large-scale carrier networks
  • Prior Experience representing Company/Technology in Industry and Technology Standards Forums.

Benefits for full-time employees include an Extended Health Care Plan, Dental, Vision, Life, Dependent Life, Disability insurance, Retirement Savings Plan, $500 Wellness Benefit, Employee Assistance Program and Paid Time Off.  


What happens once you apply?  Your resume will be reviewed against the requirements listed and if a match is made, a member of our team will reach out to you directly. Hiring top talent is our top priority and we are thrilled that you chose us.


Zhone Technologies is an equal opportunity employer for all job applicants and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics. Encouraging a diverse and inclusive organization is core to our values and is why we nurture it in everything we do. We believe that a diverse workforce brings new perspectives that enhance our teams, bring creativity, and inspire innovation. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know during the application process.


We do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants. However, please be aware that some third-party tools we use in our recruiting and selection process may incorporate AI technology. This job posting is being issued to fill a current vacancy, all interested applicants are encouraged to apply.