System Software Engineer

Position Title

System Software Engineer Employment Type

Full-time, Existing vacancy Location

Ottawa ON, Onsite About Lumentum

At Lumentum, we’re building the tech behind the world’s fastest networks and most advanced systems. Our optical and photonic solutions power everything from AI and cloud computing to data centers, telecom, and advanced manufacturing. We’re a global team of innovators working where light meets technology, solving big challenges that keep the world connected and moving forward. If shaping the future of connectivity excites you, you’ll fit right in. Why You’ll Love This Role

Lumentum is building next-generation optical switch platforms and is seeking a Staff Systems Software Engineer to lead the build, release and long-term maintenance of SONiC software used in production systems. This is a high-impact role with end-to-end ownership of SONiC releases that ship on Lumentum optical switch products. You will work closely with optical hardware, firmware, systems, manufacturing and product teams to ensure SONiC software is stable, scalable and production-ready across multiple hardware generations. This role is an excellent opportunity for Senior Build, Release or Maintenance Engineers who want to grow into broader system ownership and platform leadership. What You’ll Be Doing

Own the

build, release and lifecycle maintenance

of SONiC software for Lumentum optical switch platforms. Define and drive

production-quality SONiC releases , ensuring stability, scalability and repeatability across hardware generations. Lead investigation and resolution of

complex system-level issues

spanning SONiC, Linux, platform software, device drivers, firmware and optical hardware. Provide technical leadership for

platform bring-up, system integration and production readiness

of new optical switch products. Define, improve and scale

build, release and regression validation frameworks . Track upstream SONiC development and manage

patches, upgrades and long-term support strategies . Partner closely with

hardware, firmware, manufacturing and product teams

to align software readiness with business milestones. Act as a

technical authority

for SONiC production software, influencing architecture, design decisions and best practices. Mentor engineers, lead design reviews and drive technical alignment across teams. Produce and maintain clear

technical documentation, release notes and operational guidance . What We’re Looking For

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Experience

Deep experience in

embedded Linux or systems software engineering . Proven experience building, releasing and maintaining

SONiC or other network operating systems

in production environments. Strong hands-on experience with

SONiC Docker containers , service orchestration and containerized workflows. Experience with

Debian-based build systems , package creation and dependency management. Strong understanding of

systemd services , startup sequencing and service lifecycle management. Advanced Linux expertise with strong scripting skills in

Python and/or Bash . Demonstrated ability to debug

high-impact, cross-layer system issues

involving software and hardware. Experience operating in

production-focused, high-reliability environments . Strong technical communication skills and the ability to lead cross-functional discussions. Asset/Nice to Have

Deep familiarity with

SONiC build internals , including docker-based build flows and image generation. Experience supporting

multiple hardware platforms

and long-lived maintenance releases. Contributions to

open-source networking projects , including SONiC. Who Should Apply

Senior Build, Release or Maintenance Engineers with strong Linux experience working with

Docker, Debian packaging, and systemd

who are ready to take full ownership of

production systems

and make a broader impact across

software and hardware platforms . Why Join Lumentum

At Lumentum, you will own software that

ships on real optical switch products , influence platform readiness and system architecture, and help define the future of

programmable optical networking . This role offers

technical leadership, real ownership, and visible product impact . Perks You’ll Love

Flexible time off Health and wellness benefits (physical and mental) Tuition reimbursement and career growth support A workplace built for you: free gym, games room, prayer room Subsidized meals, free coffee/tea Employee stock options and incentive plans A collaborative, innovative, and inclusive culture Salary Range

The salary range for this position is $110,625 - $149,675 CAD (Flexible). Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, and qualifications. In line with our commitment to being a great place to work, Lumentum offers competitive total rewards which may include annual bonus, equity, and comprehensive health and welfare benefits. Inclusion Statement

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process. Your uniqueness makes us stronger, sparks creativity, and drives our success.

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