Principal R&D HW Prog Mgr

In an increasingly connected world, the pandemic has highlighted just how essential telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart of a revolution to connectivity, pushing the boundaries to deliver more and faster network capacity to people worldwide through our ambition, innovation, and technical expertise​

Join Optical Networks division , where innovation meets scale in the AI-driven data center era. With the recent acquisition of Infinera, we’ve united two industry leaders to create an optical networking powerhouse—combining cutting-edge technology with proven leadership to redefine the future of connectivity. Nokia is searching for a talented and experienced Program Manager to work within the Optical Modules Group (OMG) and assist in the development and introduction of products based on Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) for Coherent and datacenter communications applications. The position is based in Sunnyvale, California.

NION2026

•Product Life-cycle management – Drive preparation, review, and follow up for product milestone reviews aligned with requirements

Program deliverables – Define demand and fulfillment plan for program prototypes and related deliverables

Schedule – Maintain and communicate plan of record to product teams and executives. Escalate key issues effectively

Budget – Define and maintain a program budget then support purchasing activities

Metrics – Drive metrics & continuous improvements across R&D organization.

Work with Hardware, Software, Test, Architecture & Operations to ensure deliverables are driven, communicated and consensus built with cross functional teams.

Ideally has 4+ years’ experience in technical program management with solid understanding photonic device and packaging design workflows.

BS or MS with 8+ years of Hardware/Software development experience with demonstrable success in designing and shipping telecom products; especially with Optical Networking background.

Passion for lightweight, effective processes and methodologies to improve productivity & efficiency of organization; must be able to quickly learn and apply company’s business process to make an immediate impact.

An independent worker and self-starter who acts on issues with little guidance and understands implied tasks is a must.

Excellent communication and cross-boundary collaboration skills. Must be articulate enough to convey technical ideas to non-technical people.

Has the ability to multi-task within a single or across multiple programs simultaneously.

Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we’re advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

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Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you’re interested in this role but don’t meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia .