Senior Manager Network Engineering, Automation & AI Innovation

Lumen is the trusted network for the AI‑powered world, connecting people, data, and applications through our expansive fiber network and connected ecosystem. We enable secure, high‑performance connectivity across cloud, edge, and AI workloads for enterprises, governments, and communities.At Lumen, you’ll work on infrastructure customers rely on today and build for what’s next, where performance, security, and resilience matter.This is a high accountability environment where bold ideas drive real innovation for our customers, partners, and industry. The work is challenging, expectations are clear, and trust is built into how we operate. If you’re ready to take ownership, deliver meaningful impact, and help shape the future of AI‑ready connectivity, join us today.The RoleAs 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.LocationThis is a hybrid opportunity requiring onsite presence in Denver, CO The Main ResponsibilitiesLead a team of engineers building lab automation, orchestration, and AI-driven capabilities for network environmentsAdvance lab AI capabilities that analyze packet captures, crash dumps, test reports, outage data, and standards documentation to improve diagnosis, troubleshooting, and solution recommendationsScale AI/LLM and MCP-enabled tooling that can interpret lab data, compare configurations against standards, and accelerate future automation projectsConnect lab automation work to broader AI enablement priorities, including knowledge management, AI-driven configuration intelligence, and repeatable engineering workflowsDesign and implement fully automated lab and network provisioning pipelines using CI/CD methodologiesDevelop 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 networksPartner with engineering teams to enable self-service, scalable test and development environmentsBuild and evolve data platforms and telemetry pipelines to support advanced analytics and decision-makingEvaluate and integrate emerging technologies (AI, distributed compute, advanced networking models)Translate innovation into practical engineering capabilities and operational improvementsCollaborate with cross-functional leaders to shape future network architecture and platform strategyDevelop high-performing teams with a strong focus on learning, innovation, and forward-thinking engineering practiceWhat We Look For in a CandidateBachelors 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 engineeringStrong expertise in:Network automation and orchestrationCI/CD pipelines and development frameworksKubernetes and cloud-native platformsExperience with:AI/ML applications in infrastructure or network environmentsData analytics and telemetry-driven decision-makingAPI-driven systems and infrastructure-as-codeAbility to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiencesProven ability to lead teams driving innovation and transformation initiativesPreferred QualificationsExperience with:Digital twins, autonomous networks, or predictive systemsAI-assisted operations (AIOps) or intelligent observability platformsAdvanced traffic engineering or programmable networkingStrong background in software engineering or distributed systemsExperience evaluating emerging technologies and translating them into enterprise capabilitiesDemonstrated success driving innovation at scale in ambiguous environmentsCompensationThis 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 StructureRequisition #: 342736Life at LumenLife at Lumen is human and connected, even in a fast moving, AI‑focused organization. We set clear expectations and trust people to meet them. With real support and shared accountability, teams collaborate better, move faster, and deliver meaningful outcomes. Our Lumen 8 behaviors guide how we interact, make decisions, and work together, shaping a culture built to perform and win. To learn more about Life at Lumen and how we live the Lumen 8, please visit: Background ScreeningIf you are selected for a position, there will be a background screen, which may include checks for criminal records and/or motor vehicle reports and/or drug screening, depending on the position requirements. For more information on these checks, please refer to the Post Offer section of our FAQ page. Job-related concerns identified during the background screening may disqualify you from the new position or your current role. Background results will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.Equal Employment OpportunitiesWe are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, citizenship, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, genetic characteristic or information, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, family status, pregnancy, or other legally protected status (collectively, “protected statuses”). We do not tolerate unlawful discrimination in any employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotion, benefits, discipline, termination, job assignments or training.Privacy NoticeLumen is committed to protecting the privacy and security of personal information collected during the recruitment and hiring process. Our Applicant Privacy Notice explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect applicant information, as well as how individuals may request access to or deletion of their personal data.To review Lumen’s Global Employment Applicant and Talent Community Privacy Notice, please visit:DisclaimerThe job responsibilities described above indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to include a comprehensive inventory of all duties and responsibilities for this job. Job duties and responsibilities are subject to change based on evolving business needs and conditions.In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.Please be advised that Lumen does not require any form of payment from job applicants during the recruitment process. All legitimate job openings will be posted on our official website or communicated through official company email addresses. If you encounter any job offers that request payment in exchange for employment at Lumen, they are not for employment with us, but may relate to another company with a similar name.