Project Manager

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters. This role supports the delivery of network deployment and migration programs across multiple sites in North America. The Project Manager is responsible for coordinating field execution, managing project timelines, and ensuring successful delivery of infrastructure activities such as equipment decommissioning, installation, and turn-up. The role operates in a fast-paced, high-volume environment with multiple projects running in parallel and requires strong coordination across field teams, vendors, and engineering functions. Key Responsibilities Project Execution · Manage end-to-end delivery of assigned projects (initiate, plan, execute, close) · Coordinate infrastructure activities including equipment decommissioning, installation, testing, and turn-up · Support multiple projects/sites running in parallel · Track milestones, deliverables, and overall execution progress Field & Vendor Coordination · Coordinate field technicians, partners, and internal teams across multiple locations · Ensure site readiness (access, materials, design packages, tools) · Support vendor engagement (RFQs, onboarding, scheduling) · Act as the central point of contact for day-to-day field execution issues Planning & Resource Management · Develop and maintain project schedules aligned to scope and dependencies · Confirm and track resource requirements across field and engineering teams · Coordinate sequencing of activities to meet delivery timelines. Financial & Scope Tracking · Track project costs, resource utilization, and forecast vs. actuals · Support scope validation and manage changes through structured processes Reporting & Communication · Provide structured updates (daily/weekly status, dashboards, trackers) · Maintain project documentation including schedule, risks, issues, and financials · Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders, vendors, and customers Risk & Issue Management · Identify and track risks related to site readiness, materials, dependencies, and execution · Drive timely resolution of issues with appropriate escalation · Support delivery in live network environments with no customer impact Process & Quality · Follow standard delivery tools, processes, and templates · Ensure consistency and quality across all assigned projects · Capture lessons learned and support continuous improvement efforts Required Skills & Experience Core Requirements · 7+ years of experience in project management or project coordination · Experience managing or coordinating field deployment teams is considered an asset · Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills · Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects Technical & Functional Skills · Basic understanding of network deployments or infrastructure projects · Familiarity with project tracking tools and reporting (Excel, dashboards, etc.) · Ability to work across cross-functional teams (field, engineering, logistics) Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-volume environments Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available. Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, 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. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence. 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.