At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch technical support for Blue Planet software and troubleshoot issues.
- Company: Join Ciena, a leader in high-speed connectivity with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Flexible work environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team with a focus on innovation and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by supporting cutting-edge technology and enhancing customer success.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of Linux/Unix, cloud technologies, and experience in customer-facing roles.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritising 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.
Blue Planet, a division of Ciena, is seeking a Blue Planet Portfolio Support Engineer to join the Advanced Technical Support Team in EMEA. This post-sales role sits at the intersection of networking and software, supporting customers as they deploy and operate Blue Planet applications within their networks. The position offers exposure to cutting-edge software platforms, close collaboration with global engineering teams, and meaningful impact on customer success.
How you will make an impact:
- Deliver first-level technical support for the Blue Planet software portfolio, troubleshooting and resolving software and system-related issues.
- Partner with Blue Planet Solution Experts, the Global Engineering Community, Research and Development (R&D) Engineering, and Product Line Management (PLM) teams to identify, report, and resolve product defects.
- Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction through clear communication, structured problem solving, and timely issue resolution.
- Develop and document effective workarounds to minimise customer impact from functional limitations.
- Support multi-product interoperability across Blue Planet solutions and third-party software or equipment.
- Provide actionable feedback to account teams, PLM, and R&D to influence future product enhancements.
- Advocate for customer needs internally while representing Ciena’s technical and quality standards externally.
The must haves:
- Working knowledge of Linux or Unix operating systems.
- Exposure to containerisation and cloud-native technologies including Docker, Kubernetes, microservices, and Open vSwitch.
- Bachelor’s degree in network engineering, systems engineering, computer science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Foundational experience supporting software applications in customer-facing or post-sales environments.
- Ability to analyse logs, datasets, and system behaviour to isolate root causes.
- Experience with Python and shell scripting for troubleshooting or automation.
- Familiarity with databases such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, ClickHouse, or graph databases.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to remain effective in high-pressure situations.
- Proven ability to manage and prioritise multiple customer cases simultaneously.
Nice to haves:
- Hands-on experience with virtualisation platforms such as VMware ESXi, Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM), or Xen.
- Solid understanding of networking concepts and protocols, including Ethernet, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), Internet Protocol (IP), Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Interior Gateway Protocols (IGP) such as Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) or Intermediate System to Intermediate System (IS-IS), Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPNs, Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), Syslog, Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP), and Secure Shell (SSH).
- Experience with cloud-based architectures and monitoring tools such as Nagios or Grafana.
- Familiarity with customer relationship management and ticketing systems such as Salesforce or Jira.
- Industry certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Linux, Kubernetes, Amazon Web Services (AWS), or Google Cloud.
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.
Blue Planet Portfolio Support employer: Ciena Government Solutions
Ciena is an exceptional employer that prioritises a people-first approach, fostering a flexible work environment that champions individual growth and well-being. As a Blue Planet Portfolio Support Engineer, you will be part of a collaborative team that not only drives technological innovation but also makes a meaningful impact on customer success and community engagement. With ample opportunities for professional development and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Ciena stands out as a rewarding place to build your career in the tech industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Blue Planet Portfolio Support
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Ciena on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Blue Planet Portfolio Support role. Personal connections can give you insights that job descriptions just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the technical interview by brushing up on your Linux and cloud-native tech skills. Get hands-on with Docker and Kubernetes if you can. We want to see that you can troubleshoot like a champ, so practice explaining your thought process while solving problems.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During interviews, make sure to articulate your problem-solving approach clearly. Remember, it's not just about getting the right answer; it's about how you get there. We love candidates who can keep calm under pressure and explain complex ideas simply.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience with software applications and customer support.
We think you need these skills to ace Blue Planet Portfolio Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Blue Planet Portfolio Support role. Highlight your technical knowledge, especially around Linux, cloud technologies, and any relevant scripting experience. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our mission at Ciena. Be genuine and let your personality come through—after all, we’re looking for someone who fits into our people-first culture.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you've successfully troubleshot software or system issues. We love candidates who can demonstrate their analytical skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations—so share those stories with us!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Ciena family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ciena Government Solutions
✨Know Your Tech
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Linux or Unix operating systems, as well as containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the tools but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since this role involves a lot of customer interaction, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to explain complex technical issues in simple terms, as this will demonstrate your ability to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully troubleshot software applications or resolved customer issues. Highlight your structured problem-solving approach and how it led to effective workarounds or solutions.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to manage multiple customer cases simultaneously. Think of past experiences where you had to prioritise tasks under pressure and be prepared to share those stories during the interview.
