Distribution Leader, North America at Ciena in Austin, TX

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Senior leader within Ciena’s Global Distribution organization, this role plays a critical part in ensuring customer commitments are met through disciplined execution of the shipping plan and strong collaboration across Direct Order Fulfillment (DOF), Scheduling, Logistics, and Customer Operations. The position drives on-time delivery, cycle-time reduction, inventory accuracy, and continuous improvement across warehouse operations, directly supporting Ciena’s ability to serve customers reliably and at scale.

How you will make an impact:

• Lead day-to-day Direct Order Fulfillment (DOF) warehouse operations to ensure on-time customer order fulfillment and adherence to the shipping plan

• Drive effective warehouse strategies across scheduling, picking, packing, shipping, and inventory cycle counts to improve operational efficiency

• Manage and optimize workforce and resource allocation to mitigate bottlenecks and support demand variability, seasonality, and peak volumes

• Partner closely with Scheduling, Logistics, Customer Operations, and suppliers to align delivery commitments and resolve issues impacting orders

• Analyze capacity trends and perform rough-cut and “what if” capacity planning to support projected shipment dates and business opportunities

• Escalate order DOF-related issues and collaborate with Quality and Information Technology teams to address system or supply concerns.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles to enhance performance, accuracy, and scalability

The must haves:

• 8+ years of experience in warehouse management, distribution operations, order fulfillment, and inventory control

• Flexibility and experience supporting shift warehouse operations (Thursday-Saturday and Sundays twice per month)

• Demonstrated expertise in Direct Order Fulfillment (DOF) environments and end-to-end warehouse processes

• Working knowledge of materials requirements planning (MRP) systems, preferably Oracle, within a warehouse environment

• Proven ability to drive results through Lean manufacturing tools and continuous improvement methodologies

• Strong analytical, process-oriented mindset with the ability to assess data, identify trends, and implement improvements

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence internal teams and external partners globally

• Ability to prioritize multiple initiatives, remain focused under pressure, and communicate progress and risks effectively

Nice to haves:

• Background working with third-party logistics providers or outsourced fulfillment partners

• Experience supporting warehouse system migrations, expansion, testing, or major process transformations

• Exposure to global supply chain operations and cross-time-zone collaboration

• Advanced capability in capacity modeling or operational scenario planning

Pay Range:

• The annual pay range for this position in Austin, Texas is $88, 600 - $141, 500

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.