Lead Planning Engineer

Job Summary

Lumen is the trusted network for AI. We're transforming how businesses connect, secure, and scale in an AI-driven world. By connecting people, data, and applications quickly, securely, and effortlessly, we help organizations move faster and unlock what's next. At Lumen, people power progress.

Our culture is built on teamwork, trust, and transparency, giving you the flexibility, support, and opportunity to make a lasting impact. We're looking for top-tier talent ready to take on the challenge. Join us in building the future.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Planning Engineer with a proven track record in planning and implementing Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) networks.

The ideal candidate will possess the expertise to read and interpret fiber characterization results and demonstrate a strategic mindset to develop comprehensive plans for circuit identification, overbuilds, and grooming strategies.

This role requires a self-motivated individual capable of working under tight timelines with minimal supervision. As a Lead Planner, you will be expected to provide oversight over other planners on technical issues and project leadership. Location and Schedule: This is a full time work from home position.

The typical schedule is Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm. * Initiates projects utilizing the most feasible, practical, and economical means. * Performs engineering work and applied research, development and design of new projects, including design, fabrication, modification and evaluation of equipment and devices. * Analyzes complex local and wide area network systems and/or customer network environment, including planning, designing, evaluating, selecting operating systems and protocol suites and configuring communication media with concentrators, bridges and other devices. * Resolves difficult interoperability problems to obtain operation across all platforms including e-mail, files transfer, multimedia, teleconferencing and the like. * Configures systems to user environments. * Supports acquisition and implementation of hardware and software as well as subcontractor services. * Will act as a technical project leader or provide work leadership for other employees.

What We Look For in a Candidate: * Consulting level typically with 6+ years of experience. Bachelor's Degree. 4+ with a master's degree. * Proficient in designing, planning, and deploying DWDM networks. Ability to evaluate network requirements and develop robust network designs.

Experience with various DWDM equipment and technologies. * Skilled in interpreting fiber characterization results, including OTDR, CD, and PMD testing.

Ability to assess fiber quality and suitability for high-capacity DWDM applications. * Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines. Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure timely project delivery.

Proficient in project management tools and methodologies. * Strong analytical skills to identify potential network issues and develop effective solutions.

Ability to make informed decisions based on technical analysis and business requirements. * Skilled in planning and/or engineering. * Must be capable of handling moderately complex engineering assignments.

Preferred Qualifications * Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. * Collaborative approach to work effectively with internal teams, vendors, and customers. * Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. * Self-driven and proactive in identifying opportunities for network improvements.