📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Network Engineer, Operations and Support (Optical)
Company: Meta
Location: Denver, CO, United States
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Network Infrastructure & Operations
Date Posted: 2025-06-10

🚀 Role Summary

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on operational support of Meta's extensive optical DWDM network, offering a unique opportunity to design, deploy, and maintain network infrastructure at a global scale.
Monitor and troubleshoot Optical Long Haul and Metro networks, ensuring timely issue resolution and minimal service impact.
Collaborate cross-functionally and cross-regionally with various teams to restore service and optimize operational processes.
Contribute to continuous improvement by creating or optimizing monitors, alerts, dashboards, and metrics.
Support deployments for migrations, augmentations, and on-call duties across all operational pillars.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong focus on troubleshooting, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration to maintain Meta's complex optical network.
📝 Enhancement Note: The candidate will be expected to work autonomously, demonstrating analytical skills, ownership, urgency, and drive to manage and resolve network issues effectively.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves managing and operating wet plant, including BU's, WSS ROADMs, and Repeaters, requiring a solid understanding of subsea operations, deployments, and technology.
Monitor Optical Long Haul and Metro networks and troubleshoot a variety of issues in a timely manner.
Perform fault isolation based on troubleshooting outcomes and coordinate with smart hands and optical equipment manufacturers to resolve issues and restore service.
Work cross-functionally and cross-regionally with other optical and network operational support teams to restore service and limit impact.
Manage and escalate critical events while communicating clearly and concisely.
Document and optimize operational processes and procedures.
Contribute to the creation of monitors, alerts, dashboards, and metrics to drive continuous improvements.
Identify areas for automation and create or participate in solutions with scripting or coding skills.
Support deployment for migrations and augmentations.
Partner with audit teams to ensure accurate inventory and documentation.
Perform follow-the-sun on-call duties for all operational pillars.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 10+ years of experience in optical operations experience, with a strong focus on DWDM transport/transmission networks and transceivers.

Required Skills:

Knowledge and experience of DWDM platforms.
In-depth experience with network analysis and thorough troubleshooting skills.
Knowledge of the Network Management System (NMS), Element Management system (EMS), and CLI interfaces of different optical vendor platforms.
Experience in Unix systems administration with scripting in Python and/or C, C++.
Knowledge of third-party management platforms for Layer 1 equipment.
3+ years of relevant work experience in a large-scale production network environment.
Knowledge of Network Operations and Subsea Operations, Deployments, and Technology.
Experience managing and operating wet plant, including BU's, WSS ROADMs, and Repeaters.

Preferred Skills:

Experience in fiber-optic technology, including cable types, connector types, optic types, and optical transport technologies.
Familiarity with the optical transport layer and its components, such as transponders, muxponders, and amplifiers.
Experience with optical test equipment and optical fiber characterization tools.
Knowledge of optical network design principles and optical network planning tools.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate experience in optical network operations, including DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, and network troubleshooting.
Showcase problem-solving skills through case studies or examples of resolved network issues.
Highlight any experience with optical network design, planning, or deployment projects.
Include any relevant certifications or training in optical networking, such as those offered by Ciena, Cisco, or other optical equipment vendors.

Technical Documentation:

Provide documentation of network diagrams, network configurations, and network management processes.
Include any scripts or code snippets used for automation, monitoring, or troubleshooting purposes.
Demonstrate understanding of network security principles and any relevant security certifications or training.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $180,000 per year (based on industry standards for a Senior Network Engineer role in the Denver, CO area)

Benefits:

Competitive salary and equity compensation.
Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement savings plans with company matching.
Generous time off policies, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Parental leave and family planning benefits.
Employee assistance programs and mental health resources.
Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and conference attendance.
Fitness and wellness reimbursements.
Commuter benefits and transportation reimbursements.

Working Hours: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours, Monday through Friday. Occasional on-call duties may be required to support network operations and maintenance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology

Company Size: Meta is a large, multinational technology company with over 80,000 employees worldwide.

Founded: 2004

Team Structure:

The Optical Network Operations team is part of Meta's broader Network Infrastructure organization, which is responsible for designing, deploying, and maintaining the company's global network infrastructure.
The team consists of experienced network engineers, operations specialists, and support staff who work collaboratively to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of Meta's network.
The team operates on a 24/7 basis, with on-call rotations to provide continuous network support and monitoring.

Development Methodology:

Agile methodologies are used to manage network operations and support processes, with a focus on continuous improvement, automation, and innovation.
The team uses various tools and platforms to monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and manage network configurations, including proprietary tools developed by Meta's engineering teams.

Company Website: www.meta.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Meta's company culture is characterized by a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. The company encourages employees to take ownership of their work, think creatively, and challenge the status quo to drive meaningful impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Meta's Denver office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster innovation and creativity. The office features open workspaces, meeting rooms, and recreational areas, as well as on-site amenities such as a gym, cafeteria, and coffee bar.

Office Location(s): 1 Hacker Way, Menlo Park, CA 94025, United States

Workspace Context:

The Optical Network Operations team works in a dedicated workspace within Meta's larger office environment, with access to specialized tools and equipment for network monitoring and troubleshooting.
The team works collaboratively, with regular team meetings, cross-functional collaborations, and on-site training and development opportunities.
The workspace is designed to be flexible and adaptable, with adjustable workstations, ergonomic furniture, and ample natural light.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours, Monday through Friday. Occasional on-call duties may be required to support network operations and maintenance.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen (30 minutes): A brief phone conversation to discuss the candidate's background, experience, and interest in the role. The interviewer may also ask technical questions to assess the candidate's understanding of optical network operations and troubleshooting.
Technical Deep Dive (60 minutes): A more in-depth technical conversation focused on the candidate's experience with DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, and network troubleshooting. The interviewer may present the candidate with network scenarios or case studies to evaluate their problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
Behavioral Interview (30 minutes): A discussion focused on the candidate's behavioral traits, work style, and cultural fit within Meta's Optical Network Operations team. The interviewer may ask questions about the candidate's approach to problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability.
Final Interview (30 minutes): A conversation with the hiring manager or a senior member of the team to discuss the candidate's qualifications, career goals, and fit within the organization. The interviewer may also ask additional technical or behavioral questions to assess the candidate's suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight any experience with DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, and network troubleshooting.
Include case studies or examples of resolved network issues, demonstrating the candidate's problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
Showcase any relevant certifications or training in optical networking, such as those offered by Ciena, Cisco, or other optical equipment vendors.
Include any documentation of network diagrams, network configurations, or network management processes.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on knowledge of DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, and network troubleshooting.
Review any relevant certifications or training in optical networking.
Practice problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss network scenarios or case studies.
Familiarize oneself with Meta's company culture, values, and mission to demonstrate a strong cultural fit.

ATS Keywords: DWDM, Optical Network Operations, Fiber-Optic Technology, Network Troubleshooting, Network Management System, Element Management System, CLI Interfaces, Unix Systems Administration, Scripting, Network Analysis, Subsea Operations, Wet Plant Management, Optical Transport Technologies, Network Operations, Problem-Solving, Collaboration, Innovation, Continuous Learning.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Network Infrastructure:

DWDM platforms (e.g., Ciena, Cisco, Juniper)
Fiber-optic technology (e.g., single-mode, multimode, connector types, optic types)
Optical transport technologies (e.g., SONET/SDH, OTN, WDM)
Network Management System (NMS)
Element Management system (EMS)
CLI interfaces for different optical vendor platforms
Unix systems administration (e.g., Linux, BSD)
Scripting languages (e.g., Python, C, C++)
Network analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump)
Subsea operations, deployments, and technology
Wet plant management (e.g., BU's, WSS ROADMs, Repeaters)

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is focused on optical network infrastructure and operations, with a strong emphasis on DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, and network troubleshooting. The candidate should have a solid understanding of these technologies and be able to apply their knowledge to resolve network issues and optimize network performance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Network Operations Values:

Reliability: Ensure the reliability, performance, and security of Meta's global network infrastructure.
Innovation: Continuously improve network operations and support processes through automation, innovation, and collaboration.
Collaboration: Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to resolve network issues and optimize network performance.
Adaptability: Adapt to changing network conditions and technologies to ensure the continued reliability and performance of Meta's network infrastructure.
Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest network technologies, best practices, and industry trends to drive continuous improvement in network operations and support.

Collaboration Style:

The Optical Network Operations team works collaboratively, with regular team meetings, cross-functional collaborations, and on-site training and development opportunities.
The team uses Agile methodologies to manage network operations and support processes, with a focus on continuous improvement, automation, and innovation.
The team operates on a 24/7 basis, with on-call rotations to provide continuous network support and monitoring.

📝 Enhancement Note: Meta's Optical Network Operations team is characterized by a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. The team works collaboratively to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of Meta's global network infrastructure, with a commitment to driving continuous improvement through automation, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Troubleshooting complex network issues in a large-scale production network environment.
Managing and operating wet plant, including BU's, WSS ROADMs, and Repeaters, requiring a solid understanding of subsea operations, deployments, and technology.
Identifying areas for automation and creating or participating in solutions with scripting or coding skills.
Supporting deployments for migrations and augmentations, requiring strong project management and coordination skills.
Partnering with audit teams to ensure accurate inventory and documentation, requiring strong attention to detail and process management skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Meta offers numerous training and development opportunities for employees, including workshops, webinars, and online courses focused on optical network operations, troubleshooting, and management.
Career Progression: With experience and strong performance, employees may have the opportunity to advance to more senior roles within the Optical Network Operations team or other areas of Meta's Network Infrastructure organization.
Leadership Development: Meta provides leadership development programs and mentorship opportunities to help employees build the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in leadership roles within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers numerous opportunities for technical skill development, career progression, and leadership growth within Meta's Optical Network Operations team and broader Network Infrastructure organization. The candidate should be proactive in seeking out learning and development opportunities and demonstrating a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

DWDM Platforms: Describe your experience with DWDM platforms, including specific vendor products (e.g., Ciena, Cisco, Juniper) and their features, capabilities, and limitations.
Fiber-Optic Technology: Explain the different types of fiber-optic cable, connectors, and optics, and discuss their applications in optical network design and deployment.
Network Troubleshooting: Describe your approach to network troubleshooting, including tools, techniques, and best practices for resolving complex network issues.
Network Management System (NMS) and Element Management System (EMS): Discuss your experience with NMS and EMS platforms, including their features, capabilities, and limitations, and how you have used them to manage and monitor optical networks.
Unix Systems Administration: Explain your experience with Unix systems administration, including scripting languages (e.g., Python, C, C++) and their applications in network operations and support.

Company & Culture Questions:

Meta's Network Infrastructure: Describe your understanding of Meta's global network infrastructure and its role in supporting the company's products and services.
Optical Network Operations: Discuss your experience with optical network operations and support, including any challenges you have faced and how you have overcome them.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Explain your approach to collaboration and teamwork, including any examples of successful cross-functional collaborations or team projects.
Innovation & Continuous Learning: Describe your commitment to innovation and continuous learning, including any relevant training, certifications, or personal development projects.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

DWDM Platforms: Highlight your experience with DWDM platforms, including specific vendor products and their applications in optical network design and deployment.
Fiber-Optic Technology: Showcase your understanding of fiber-optic cable, connectors, and optics, and discuss their applications in optical network design and deployment.
Network Troubleshooting: Demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical expertise through case studies or examples of resolved network issues.
Network Management System (NMS) and Element Management System (EMS): Discuss your experience with NMS and EMS platforms, including their features, capabilities, and limitations, and how you have used them to manage and monitor optical networks.
Unix Systems Administration: Highlight your experience with Unix systems administration, including scripting languages and their applications in network operations and support.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is focused on assessing the candidate's technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit within Meta's Optical Network Operations team. The candidate should be prepared to discuss their experience with DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, network troubleshooting, and network management, as well as their approach to collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Network Engineer, Operations and Support (Optical) position at Meta:

Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience with DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, network troubleshooting, and network management. Include any relevant certifications or training in optical networking, such as those offered by Ciena, Cisco, or other optical equipment vendors.
Update Your Portfolio: Update your portfolio to include any case studies or examples of resolved network issues, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and technical expertise. Highlight any experience with optical network design, planning, or deployment projects.
Prepare for Technical Interviews: Brush up on your knowledge of DWDM platforms, fiber-optic technology, network troubleshooting, and network management. Practice problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss network scenarios or case studies. Familiarize yourself with Meta's company culture, values, and mission to demonstrate a strong cultural fit.
Submit Your Application: Submit your application through the Meta Careers website, including your resume and portfolio. Be sure to follow the application instructions carefully and provide all required information.

📝 Enhancement Note: This enhanced job description provides a comprehensive overview of the Network Engineer, Operations and Support (Optical) role at Meta, including the role's responsibilities, qualifications, technology stack, team culture, and interview preparation tips. By following the application steps outlined above, candidates can position themselves for success in the application and interview process.

Network Engineer, Operations and Support (Optical)