Lead Optical Network Data Management Specialist

About this role

Lead Optical Network Data Management Specialist Location Canberra, ACT Working Arrangement Onsite, 5 days per week in the office Clearance Required Current NV2 clearance Company Overview Our client, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), is responsible for advancing Australia's international interests through diplomacy, trade, development assistance, and consular services. Within DFAT's Information Management and Technology Division, the Telecommunications and Data Centre Support Section provides the critical communications and infrastructure backbone that supports both domestic and global operations. Job Description We are seeking an experienced Lead Optical Network Data Management Specialist to support and sustain DFAT's core ICT infrastructure. This role is responsible for the operational performance, maintenance, enhancement, and support of the Department's Data Centre Network (DCN) and DFAT Optical Network (DON) across Canberra-based data centre environments. This is an excellent opportunity for an optical networking specialist with extensive CIENA transport network experience who thrives in mission-critical, enterprise-scale environments. Duties and Responsibilities • Engineer, operate, and support CIENA optical transport networks and DWDM-based Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) solutions. • Install, maintain, and support network, server, and associated ICT infrastructure within data centre environments. • Perform fibre optic and copper cabling installation, termination, testing, and rack preparation activities. • Support the operation, sustainment, and optimisation of optical networking environments. • Troubleshoot and resolve complex infrastructure and network issues. • Commission and manage end-to-end optical network services. • Coordinate with internal stakeholders, telecommunications providers, and external vendors. • Develop and maintain technical documentation including designs, build guides, and operational procedures. • Ensure all activities comply with organisational standards, processes, and safety requirements. • Contribute to the delivery of resilient, high-availability network services supporting critical government operations. Education/Certifications Required • Relevant tertiary qualification in Information Technology, Telecommunications, Network Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience. • Current Australian Government NV1 Security Clearance (minimum). • Desirable certifications include: • Ciena Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Professional certifications. • Cisco CCNA, CCNP, or equivalent. • Optical Networking, DWDM, or OTN certifications. • Structured cabling or fibre optic handling certifications. Knowledge/Skills Required • Minimum 5 years of experience engineering, operating, and supporting CIENA optical transport networks. • Strong expertise in DWDM technologies and Data Centre Interconnect solutions. • Deep understanding of optical network architecture, design, provisioning, optimisation, testing, and support. • Experience deploying and managing optical network infrastructure within enterprise or data centre environments. • Knowledge of fibre connectivity, carrier lead-in services, and service commissioning. • Experience working with secure, complex, and multi-site network environments. • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities. • Experience with technical documentation including HLDs, LLDs, operational procedures, and build guides. • Familiarity with telecommunications carriers, circuit provisioning, and fault management processes. • Experience in data centre operations, including rack installations and hardware lifecycle management. Criteria The buyer has specified that each candidate must provide a one page pitch to address all criteria specified. This is equal to 5000 characters. Essential criteria • * Demonstrated minimum 5+ years' experience engineering, operating, and supporting CIENA optical transport networks, including DWDM-based Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) solutions. • * Strong understanding of optical network architecture, design, and implementation, including provisioning, testing, optimisation, and ongoing support of CIENA platforms to deliver high-capacity, resilient services. • * Proven experience deploying and managing optical network infrastructure in data centre and enterprise environments, including fibre connectivity, carrier lead-in services, and end-to-end service commissioning. • * Current Australian Government NV2 security clearance, or ability and willingness to obtain and maintain one. Desirable criteria • * Demonstrated ability to produce and maintain technical documentation, including HighLevel Designs (HLD), Low-Level Designs (LLD), build guides, and operational procedures. • * Experience working within government or large enterprise environments, particularly secure and/or multi-site network infrastructures. • * Hands-on experience in data centre operations, including rack installation, structured cabling, and hardware lifecycle management. • * Familiarity with telecommunications carriers and service providers, including coordination of circuits, provisioning activities, and fault resolution. Diversity and Inclusion We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. Veterans Defence and Federal Government industry experience is highly desirable. We strongly encourage veterans and individuals with Defence experience to apply. Your unique skills and background are highly valued, and we are committed to supporting your transition into this role. About Cleared At Cleared, we provide tailored recruitment solutions to individuals seeking their next opportunity and to organisations searching for talent within Defence Industry, Intelligence and National Security. We connect highly skilled professionals with employers delivering critical outcomes across Australia's security and government sectors.