About the Role
Ciena's Interconnects team develops world-leading coherent optical components and pluggable modules that power high-speed, adaptive networks. This role plays a critical part in scaling those innovations into high-volume manufacturing, enabling reliable, cost-effective delivery of optical products at global scale. The Manufacturing Automation Manager provides technical and people leadership to advance automation strategy, partner manufacturing readiness, and continuous process improvement across the Interconnects portfolio.
How You Will Make an Impact
•Lead a manufacturing automation team responsible for developing, validating, and documenting high-volume assembly processes for optical devices and modules
•Drive the design and deployment of scalable, cost-effective automated processes capable of supporting hundreds of thousands to millions of units annually
•Define and optimize process architectures, throughput targets, cost structures, and equipment strategies aligned to product and business requirements
•Act as technical lead for the development of automated equipment with external suppliers, from concept through qualification and production release
•Partner closely with New Product Introduction (NPI), test engineering, process development, component research and development (R&D), and contract manufacturing (CM) teams to ensure robust Design for X (DFx) integration
•Lead technical transfer of manufacturing processes to global contract manufacturing partners, including direct on-site engineering support and ownership of documentation quality
•Build, scale, and mentor a high-performing automation team, including resource planning, hiring, and performance management
The Must Haves
•Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
•8–10+ years of experience developing high-volume manufacturing processes in an optoelectronic, semiconductor, or radio frequency surface-mount technology (RF SMT) environment
•Proven experience leading technical teams delivering complex manufacturing or automation programs
•Strong background in automation systems, including equipment specification, process control, and supplier engagement
•Demonstrated experience applying Design for X (DFx) principles to support mass manufacturing
•Ability to work effectively with global suppliers, partners, and cross-functional internal teams
•Willingness to travel internationally on an as-needed basis to support equipment vendors and manufacturing partners
Nice to Haves
•Hands-on experience with robotics, material handling systems, and advanced manufacturing controls
•Experience applying artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) techniques in manufacturing, such as vision systems, automated optical inspection (AOI), data analytics, or predictive maintenance
•Background supporting manufacturing operations in Asia, including direct engagement with contract manufacturers
•Experience supporting qualification, reliability, and continuous improvement programs in high-tech manufacturing environments
Pay Range
The annual pay range for this position in Canada is $146,600.00 - $234,200.00 CAD.
Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting diverse products, industries, and lines of business, and pertain to the primary location listed.
Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time.
