Senior Lab Manager

Primary Duties & Responsibilities


* Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking products and technologies, including servers, network switches, and supporting infrastructure such as monitoring tools


* Define lab requirements, coordinate equipment procurement, and oversee installation, configuration, and operational readiness


* Collaborate with internal teams to develop and deliver interactive demonstrations that highlight product capabilities and solutions


* Partner with cross-functional teams to create and maintain passive product displays, including hardware setups and technical signage within the lab


* Lead and support proof-of-concept (POC) trials for key customers focused on optical datacenter and communications products


* Perform ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and optimization of lab systems and equipment to ensure reliability and relevance


* Engage directly with customers during lab visits, providing technical expertise and coordinating responses to inquiries with internal stakeholders


* Drive customer POC requirements through internal engineering and product teams to ensure successful execution


* Gather and communicate customer feedback to relevant internal teams to inform product improvements and strategy


* Provide technical and customer-facing support at industry events and trade shows as needed

Education & Experience


* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience); Master's degree or higher preferred


* 7+ years of experience in the communications and systems industry in technical roles


* Hands-on experience with servers, network equipment, operating systems, and management software required


* Strong problem-solving and technical troubleshooting skills in complex environments


* Customer-facing experience is a plus, with the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and effectively

Skills


* Strong technical and debugging skills related to the installation, configuration, and operation of servers, network switches/devices, and network test and monitoring equipment


* Hands-on experience troubleshooting systems, monitoring tools, and lab test environments


* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams


* Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple priorities


* Familiarity with optical networking equipment is a plus

Working Conditions


* This position is onsite


* May require occasional off-site meetings


* Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary


* Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job

Physical Requirements


* Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods while installing and maintaining lab equipment


* Comfortable working in ...