Senior Network Engineer

Why this role

• You'll work on one of the world's largest and most complex optical networks, operating at petabit-per-second scale across thousands of devices globally. This role offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge DWDM technology and optical systems that directly power AWS's global infrastructure, the backbone enabling millions of customers' cloud innovation. You'll tackle unique technical challenges at a scale few networks in the world can match, while contributing to solutions that have immediate, measurable impact on AWS's ability to deliver seamless service to customers worldwide.
• The team operates with a high degree of autonomy and ownership, where engineers don't just execute tasks, they shape long-term strategy and drive innovation. We value bold ideas and empower team members to own them through completion, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives from software, hardware, and network engineers come together to solve complex problems. You'll work in a fast-paced, inclusive culture that balances operational excellence with continuous learning, where your contributions directly influence how AWS scales its infrastructure.
• Experience Required
• Minimum 5–8 years of industry experience in optical networking or telecommunications
• Excellent hands-on experience with the deployment and operation of large-scale DWDM networks
• Experience with optical planning and modelling tools
• Key Responsibilities
• Execute software upgrades on production optical network devices across multiple vendor platforms
• Perform manual upgrade procedures where automated deployment pipelines cannot reach devices
• Validate device health and service integrity pre- and post-upgrade
• Coordinate with planning and automation teams to ensure upgrade readiness
• Document upgrade procedures, outcomes, and any exceptions encountered
• Participate in on-call rotations to support operational coverage

Top 3 Must-Have Skills

• DWDM/Optical Network Systems Experience — Direct hands-on experience deploying and operating high-capacity DWDM systems. Candidates must have worked with optical transport platforms at scale, including provisioning, commissioning, and maintaining DWDM line systems and transponder/muxponder equipment.
• Network Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving — Proven ability to diagnose and resolve optical network issues in production environments. Must be comfortable interpreting optical performance metrics (OSNR, BER, power levels), using test equipment (OSA, OTDR, power meters), and methodically isolating faults under time pressure.
• Project Management / Time Management — Strong organisational skills to balance multiple responsibilities across upgrade execution, operational support, and programme deliverables. Must be able to manage workload independently, prioritise effectively, and communicate status clearly