At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cross-functional projects to enhance service operations and improve product quality.
- Company: Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Flexible work environment, focus on individual growth, and commitment to well-being.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values respect, inclusion, and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in technology while driving meaningful social and community initiatives.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field; 10+ years in product manufacturing or process engineering.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ 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 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.
This role sits at the center of how Ciena delivers reliable, high‑performance networking solutions to customers worldwide. It focuses on strengthening service operations processes that directly impact product quality, cost, and lifecycle efficiency. The position partners closely with engineering, service teams, and global partners to enable scalable, data‑driven service execution across advanced optical and routing platforms.
How you will make an impact:
- Lead cross‑functional project management efforts with Service Operations teams, global service partners, and engineering organizations to resolve complex process issues.
- Optimize end‑to‑end service lifecycle execution for Ciena products, from introduction through sustainment.
- Deliver service enablement, New Product Introduction (NPI), service ramp, and continuous improvement initiatives in partnership with engineering teams.
- Drive initiatives that improve service performance through cost reduction, aging inventory recovery, scrap reduction, and cycle‑time improvement.
- Define, manage, and report operational performance metrics to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
- Apply lean methodologies to identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives within Service Operations.
- Develop data‑driven analytics to identify systemic issues, recommend corrective actions, and implement sustainable solutions.
The must haves:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronics, Industrial), Supply Chain Management, or a related technical field.
- Experience: 10+ years of experience in product manufacturing or process engineering within high‑technology, telecommunications, networking, or complex electronics environments.
- Demonstrated management of complex projects from concept through execution, resulting in measurable operational improvements.
- Application of manufacturing or repair process knowledge, including process optimization, logistics, and quality control methodologies.
- Utilization of product lifecycle management (PLM) tools and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
- Ability to collaborate and drive alignment across global, cross‑functional teams in a fast‑paced environment.
- Willingness to travel occasionally to service partners and internal sites to support critical initiatives, with fluency in English.
Nice to haves:
- Education: Master’s degree in a related engineering discipline.
- Background in telecommunications hardware manufacturing or service environments.
- Application of Design for Manufacturability (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and serviceability principles.
- Lean, Six Sigma, or 8D problem‑solving methodologies.
- Advanced analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making capabilities.
- Certifications: PMP certification or a comparable project management qualification.
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.
Services Operations Program Manager 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 global leader in high-speed connectivity, employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions while engaging in innovative projects that have a real-world impact. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Ciena offers a supportive culture where every voice is valued, making it an ideal place for aspiring Software Engineers to launch their careers.
Contact Details:
Ciena Government Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Services Operations Program Manager
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Services Operations Program Manager role you’re after at Ciena Government Solutions.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Ciena Government Solutions a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Ciena Government Solutions.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Services Operations Program Manager at Ciena Government Solutions, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Services Operations Program Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Services Operations Program Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Ciena Government Solutions a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Ciena Government Solutions specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ciena Government Solutions
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Ciena Government Solutions, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Ciena Government Solutions want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
