The Role

As a Senior Manager, Network Engineering (Automation & AI Innovation), you will lead a team focused on transforming network engineering through automation, AI-driven operations, and next-generation platform engineering. This team will build capabilities that enable scalable, intelligent, and autonomous network systems, supporting Lumen's digital platform transformation. This role requires strong expertise in software-defined networking, automation frameworks, AI/ML applications, and future-state architecture strategy.

Location

• This is a hybrid opportunity requiring onsite presence in Denver, CO

The Main Responsibilities

• Lead a team of engineers building lab automation, orchestration, and AI-driven capabilities for network environments
• Advance lab AI capabilities that analyze packet captures, crash dumps, test reports, outage data, and standards documentation to improve diagnosis, troubleshooting, and solution recommendations
• Scale AI/LLM and MCP-enabled tooling that can interpret lab data, compare configurations against standards, and accelerate future automation projects
• Connect lab automation work to broader AI enablement priorities, including knowledge management, AI-driven configuration intelligence, and repeatable engineering workflows
• Design and implement fully automated lab and network provisioning pipelines using CI/CD methodologies
• Develop and scale AI-driven solutions (e.g., predictive analytics, Digital Twins, autonomous network operations)
• Drive adoption of infrastructure-as-code, API-driven architectures, and programmable networks
• Partner with engineering teams to enable self-service, scalable test and development environments
• Build and evolve data platforms and telemetry pipelines to support advanced analytics and decision-making
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies (AI, distributed compute, advanced networking models)
• Translate innovation into practical engineering capabilities and operational improvements
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to shape future network architecture and platform strategy
• Develop high-performing teams with a strong focus on learning, innovation, and forward-thinking engineering practice

What We Look For in a Candidate

• Bachelors degree in a relevant field (cloud engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, etc.)
• 10 years of experience in Network engineering, Software engineering, or System/Platform engineering
• Strong expertise in:
  • Network automation and orchestration
  • CI/CD pipelines and development frameworks
  • Kubernetes and cloud-native platforms
• Experience with:
  • AI/ML applications in infrastructure or network environments
  • Data analytics and telemetry-driven decision-making
  • API-driven systems and infrastructure-as-code
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Proven ability to lead teams driving innovation and transformation initiatives

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with:
  • Digital twins, autonomous networks, or predictive systems
  • AI-assisted operations (AIOps) or intelligent observability platforms
  • Advanced traffic engineering or programmable networking
• Strong background in software engineering or distributed systems
• Experience evaluating emerging technologies and translating them into enterprise capabilities
• Demonstrated success driving innovation at scale in ambiguous environments

Compensation

This information reflects the anticipated base salary range for this position based on current national data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience and other relevant factors.

Location Based Pay Ranges
$138,844 - $185,124 in these states: CO

Lumen offers a comprehensive package featuring a broad range of Health, Life, Voluntary Lifestyle benefits and other perks that enhance your physical, mental, emotional and financial wellbeing. We're able to answer any additional questions you may have about our bonus structure (short-term incentives, long-term incentives and/or sales compensation) as you move through the selection process.
Learn more about Lumen's:BenefitsBonus Structure

Requisition #: 342736