Customer Solutions Architect

Applied Optoelectronics Inc. (AOI) is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced optical and Radio Frequency (RF) products, including components, modules, and equipment. AOI’s products are the building blocks for broadband access networks worldwide, where they are used in the internet data center, CATV broadband, telecom, and FTTH markets. AOI is also a leader in broadband software solutions, delivering innovative software platforms that enable service providers to manage, operate, and optimize their broadband access networks.

We are seeking a technically strong and customer-focused Customer Solutions Architect to support the design and delivery of our CATV software solutions, with an emphasis on element management, remote management and control systems, and cloud-based architectures. This role requires hands‑on experience in the telecommunications industry, particularly in CATV and broadband, along with a proven ability to translate customer needs into scalable, innovative software solutions.

• Develop and present tailored cloud-based and on-premise architecture solutions that address customer requirements for broadband access software products, ensuring alignment with organizational capabilities and industry standards.
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for customers, working directly with them to gather requirements, understand integration needs, and guide them through solution design and deployment.

• Lead efforts to assist customers in integrating software solutions into their existing systems, ensuring smooth deployment and ongoing support. Collaborate closely with engineering teams to develop integration strategies that meet customer specifications.

• Partner with product management, engineering, sales, and marketing teams to provide technical input on product initiatives, go-to-market strategies, and customer-facing materials.

• Provide technical expertise and product knowledge to support sales teams, partners, and customers. Contribute to the development of product collateral, presentations, and training materials.
• Design and recommend cloud-based solutions leveraging AWS, Azure, GCP, and On-Premise platforms to meet customer scalability, reliability, and performance requirements within the CATV/broadband domain.

• Conduct research and competitive analysis to identify trends and opportunities in element management, remote management/control, and cloud-based solutions relevant to the CATV market.

• Work with engineering and product teams to ensure software interfaces and architectures are intuitive and meet the diverse needs of customer segments.

• Define and monitor technical KPIs to evaluate solution performance. Ensure all solutions comply with relevant regulatory standards and industry best practices in security, reliability, and performance.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in solutions architecture, product management, or systems engineering within the telecommunications or software industry. Experience with CATV systems is a plus.
• Hands‑on experience designing and implementing cloud-based solutions within AWS, Azure, GCP, and On-Premise platforms.
• Knowledge of containerization, microservices, and Dev Ops practices. Strong experience with Kubernetes-based environments is highly desirable.
• Solid understanding of element management systems (EMS), remote management and control protocols, and current CATV/broadband technologies. A strong background with network troubleshooting and issue triaging is desirable.
• Proven ability to engage effectively with customers to gather requirements, address integration needs, and ensure satisfaction with delivered solutions.
• Ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and technical…