Distinguished Engineer - Data Center Networking & AI Switch Architect
Nokia
Software Engineering, IT, Data Science
United States · Canada
Posted on Dec 12, 2025
Reporting directly to the CTO office, the Distinguished Engineer will lead the strategy and architecture of next-generation switches and networking solutions required for the artificial intelligence (AI) era. This role focuses on enabling high-performance, scalable, secure and reliable system solutions for both AI training and inferencing workloads in data centers and at the network edge. The position requires deep technical expertise in data center networking, HPC, and network security, switch/routing architecture as well as visionary leadership in software/hardware design and or co-design
We are seeking a world-class innovative leader to define the vision and roadmap for embedded, pluggable coherent, data center optics, including DSP ASICs, PICs, materials and next-generation transport systems. This individual will shape product strategies that deliver ultraefficient, highcapacity interconnects for AI infrastructure (including CPO, OBO, LPO,…), data center interconnect (DCI), metro, and longhaul networks. You will drive innovation across silicon photonics, Indium Phosphide, DSP, as well as vertically integrated solutions including on switching platforms — ensuring product lines remains at the technological forefront.
Graduate-level education in Engineering / Computer Science is preferred, although not required
- Experienced in the field of HPC, AI workload management, High availability designs, L2/L3 switching and routing system architectures
- Demonstrated leadership across organizations and boundaries
- Proven technical leadership in open-source communities and standardization organizations.
- Experience in software and hardware co-design for networking solutions.
- Architect and design future generations of switches and networking platforms to support AI training and inferencing in data centers and in networks.
- Collaborate with different business groups, R&D, research community to define strategic technology direction and innovation priorities for AI-driven networking solutions.
- Lead strategic direction in scalable, efficient, and reliable networking, including SDN, network verification, topology/routing/flow control, load balancing, scheduling, and congestion control.
- Analyze technical trends and competitive landscape to provide product and solution strategy / direction for AI-centric networking.
- Engage with open-source communities and standardization organizations (e.g., UEC, OpenDayLight) to drive industry-leading solutions and standards.
- Benchmark, evaluate, and optimize HPC and AI application performance.