Consultant, Solutions Architect

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Role Summary

This position requires a unique blend of technical expertise, industry knowledge, and leadership skills to deliver high-quality solutions and services to Ciena/Blue Planet clients. The role demands a deep understanding of Blue Planet OSS solutions, telecommunications industry practices, and the ability to navigate complex client implementations while providing thought leadership, guidance, and mentorship to internal teams and customers.

Common Tasks

Core Responsibilities:

Client Engagement:

• Leverage deep knowledge of Ciena and Blue Planet solutions to support clients in implementing solutions tailored to their business needs.
• Actively influence clients on leveraging Blue Planet solutions to meet evolving business challenges.
• Navigate complex client relationships to ensure successful implementations.

Implementation Expertise:

• Identify and mitigate risks in implementation projects using best technical practices for Blue Planet products.
• Provide critical application configuration knowledge and business process expertise across Blue Planet solutions.
• Lead advanced solution design, configuration activities, and troubleshooting for resolving complex issues.

Thought Leadership:

• Offer guidance on complex implementation challenges and solution designs.
• Articulate options, risks, and benefits during business process and design reviews.
• Review and approve solution documents, test strategies, and development plans.

Knowledge Development:

• Continuously expand expertise across Blue Planet product offerings and industry solutions.
• Educate teams on implementation best practices, competitor solutions, and industry trends.
• Mentor consultants and develop training plans tailored to individual and team needs.

General Practice Management:

Team Leadership:

• Act as a role model for consulting practices and mentor team members.
• Provide leadership, motivation, and direction to maintain high morale and staff retention.
• Conduct regular team meetings and one-on-one sessions to ensure team alignment.

Operational Excellence:

• Manage project tasks, activities, and deadlines effectively.
• Advocate for improvements in practice efficiency, services, and processes.
• Collaborate with Resource Managers to allocate consultants effectively for projects.

Organizational Contributions:

• Support organizational needs by providing product and implementation expertise.
• Offer insights into business trends and growth opportunities.
• Provide input to Product Strategy and R&D for future solution releases.

Performance Management:

• Define personal development objectives for direct reports aligned with organizational goals.
• Regularly review consultant performance and take appropriate actions.
• Participate in recruitment, promotions, appraisals, and disciplinary actions.

Qualifications

Education:

• A BS or BA in a related field.

Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in functional and/or technical leadership roles.
• 7–10 years of experience implementing Blue Planet OSS projects in telecommunications markets.
• 5 years of experience in multi-dimensional issue resolution.

Industry Knowledge:

• 7+ years of operational experience in telecommunications, broadband, or communications-related industries.

Travel:

• Ability to travel as required.

Special Skills

Technical Expertise:

• Perceived as an expert and visionary in Blue Planet product areas by both internal teams and clients.
• Deep knowledge of Blue Planet product technology and industry practices (telecommunications, broadband, communications, pricing, etc.).
• Proven experience in implementing Blue Planet solutions and systems integrations.

Problem-Solving Skills:

• Independent judgment and ability to resolve complex technical and business issues.
• Strong analytical skills to proactively identify and solve problems.

Communication:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong verbal presentation skills to articulate solutions and best practices effectively.

Leadership & Mentorship:

• Ability to build rapport with team members and clients.
• Proven track record of mentoring and developing consultants.
• Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability to lead change.

Time Management:

• Superior time management skills to handle multiple concurrent activities and deadlines.

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At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard.  Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.