Optical Automation Designer

At Vodafone, we're not just shaping the future of connectivity for our customers – we're shaping the future for everyone who joins our team. When you work with us, you're part of a global mission to connect people, solve complex challenges, and create a sustainable and more inclusive world. If you want to grow your career whilst finding the perfect balance between work and life, Vodafone offers the opportunities to help you belong and make a real impact.

Role purpose: 

• Develop the Optical Technology Evolution plan for the transmission network including the Optical Area Controller to deliver harmonized solution across the European markets and the international networks.
• Do the Optical SDN controller and Optical Network Element Type Approval Testing on centralized acceptance labs. As well the test of the Controller North Bound interface and the Integration Type Approval Test with the Hirarchycal Controller.
• Steer the vendor toward quality improve of the SW and HW delivered using the Type Approval Test process managing the Bug fixing and the Request for Change planning.
• Optical automation portfolio management including development of AI solution applied to the Optical Network.
• Develop the testing procedures for Optical SDN controller integrated on the full SDN stack architecture and with the Optical Lab Environment 
• Design and develop solutions for testing automation on the centralized labs
• Delivery of the Optical Planning Guideline to guide the vertical design teams toward an harmonized network evolution path
• Support through Cost/Benefit exercise strategic decision on transport network

Key accountabilities and decision ownership:

• Analyse country specific and international demands to develop the technology harmonized plan. 
• Type Approve Testing of the new HW and SW delivered by the optical vendor 
• Deliver Optical Planning Guide document based on the configuration type approved.
• Manage the Optical Lab in Milano dealing with the on site services provided by the external company managing the lab infrastructure
• Contribute to the Optical SDN Use Cases definition and plan the optical release to deliver the Optical Automation

Preferred core competencies, knowledge and experience :

• Act as a team player 
• Self-Starter with plenty of drive to push barriers and a pragmatic approach to get the job done 
• Optimum communication skills 
• Cultural awareness

Preferred technical / professional qualifications: 

• Deep knowledge of Networking and Transmission Protocols and Technology (e.g. DWDM, OTN) on multivendor environment  (e.g. Nokia, Huawei, Ciena) with at least 5 years of experience on the business
• Very good knowledge of the testing methodologies for optical transmission technology
• Good knowledge of Cloud Virtualisation solutions and in particular into its main application into the transmission network: the Software Design Network
• Good knowledge of the IP/MPLS technology
• Knowledge of Python and Software scripting is a plus
• Experience on network process automation is a plus

Worried that you don't meet all the desired criteria exactly? At Vodafone we are passionate about empowering people and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, whatever their personal or professional background. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align exactly with every part of the job description, we encourage you to still apply as you may be the right candidate for this role or another opportunity.

We are a leading international Telco, serving millions of customers. At Vodafone, we believe that connectivity is a force for good. If we use it for the things that really matter, it can improve people's lives and the world around us. Through our technology we empower people, connecting everyone regardless of who they are or where they live and we protect the planet, whilst helping our customers do the same.

Belonging at Vodafone isn't a concept; it's lived, breathed, and cultivated through everything we do. You'll be part of a global and diverse community, with many different minds, abilities, backgrounds and cultures. ;We're committed to increase diversity, ensure equal representation, and make Vodafone a place everyone feels safe, valued and included.

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Together we can.