As the Sr. Director of Applications Engineering for Photonic Component Solutions at Nokia, you will guide a dynamic team focused on pioneering optical communication technologies for hyperscalers and optical module manufacturers. Your role is pivotal in connecting technical expertise with customer needs, fostering collaboration across engineering, R&D, and sales to deliver tailored photonics and DSP solutions. In this fast-paced, innovative work environment, you will engage directly with clients, conduct compelling product demonstrations, and gather valuable market insights that drive product development. The culture emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and a commitment to shaping the future of data center infrastructure. Join us in a setting where your technical influence and strategic vision will have a significant impact on global connectivity.
- Lead technical engagements with hyperscalers and optical module manufacturers to demonstrate Nokia's advanced optical communication devices.
- Serve as the primary technical liaison between customers and engineering teams, ensuring effective communication and support.
- Develop customized Photonics-based solutions addressing specific optical interconnect and networking needs of clients.
- Conduct engaging product demonstrations and training sessions to effectively showcase Nokia PIC and/or DSP technology.
- Collect market insights and customer feedback to inform product development and enhance future solutions.
- Facilitate collaboration between engineering, R&D, sales, and marketing teams to align on customer requirements and product offerings.
- Drive sales enablement efforts by providing ongoing technical support throughout the entire sales cycle.
- Mentor and manage the applications engineering team, fostering a culture of innovation and customer-centric problem-solving.
You have:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
- 3-5 years of technical sales or applications engineering experience in Photonics or Optoelectronics
- Deep knowledge of Photonics (InP or SiPho) and/or DSP components
- Proven ability to engage and influence high-level technical decision-makers
It would be nice if you also had:
- Master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field
- Experience in developing or supporting reference designs and system integration for photonic products
- Familiarity with networking protocols such as Ethernet and OTN
- Strong network of industry contacts within the photonics and data center sectors
- Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
- Health and dental benefits
- Short-term disability, and long-term disability
- Life insurance, and AD&D – Company paid 2x base pay
- Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
- Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- Tuition Assistance Plan
- Adoption assistance
- Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program
Top Skills
Similar Jobs
What you need to know about the Chicago Tech Scene
Key Facts About Chicago Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 245,800; 5.2% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: McDonald’s, John Deere, Boeing, Morningstar
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, biotechnology, fintech, software, logistics technology
- Funding Landscape: $2.5 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Pritzker Group Venture Capital, Arch Venture Partners, MATH Venture Partners, Jump Capital, Hyde Park Venture Partners
- Research Centers and Universities: Northwestern University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Institute of Technology, Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

