Job Description

2023 ADTRAN Rotation Program – Applications Engineer I - RDP (2 Openings)

Who is ADTRAN?

Adtran delivers networking and software solutions built for the future and focused on the customer. Combining state-of-the-art technology with an open, disaggregated approach, Adtran empowers service providers to deliver intelligent broadband to their customers so they can unlock greater value — continuously, sustainably, and at scale. Adtran. Unlocking the future network.

About the Adtran Rotational Development Program

The Adtran Rotational Development Program is an excellent opportunity for students are who transitioning to full-time engineers to not only gain exposure to world of business but also to apply classroom experience and knowledge to the real world. As an Application Engineer I participating in the Rotation Program, you will have the opportunity to develop engineering and professional skills as you take part in a 15-month program that consists of up to high-impact rotations in core, customer-facing business areas.

During each rotation, you will be fully immersed into the assigned business area and have challenging cross-functional assignments where you will work alongside skilled professionals. In addition, you will also be given opportunities to have additional training, resources, and exposure to senior leadership.

Upon completion of the 15-month rotation program, participants are placed in their permanent Application Engineer position.

Application Engineer I

The Sales Applications Engineer, under general supervision, will be responsible for providing pre-sales technical support for the design of complex products/applications/solutions for Adtran’s customers. The Sales Applications Engineer will work on problems of moderate scope and may require assistance from more seasoned engineers on complex applications requiring the application of multiple technologies/products. This individual is working to become a Subject Matter Expert in at least one product/technology area and may receive general instructions on routine work and detailed instructions on new assignments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Interact with sales, sales engineers, and customers via phone, email, and the web to understand network requirements and provide product recommendations that meet customer’s needs.
• Answer technical requirements for customer RFx, with support from Product Management and R&D as needed.
• Work closely with Product Management to learn about upcoming, unreleased products and features to inform forward-looking bid responses.
• Generate valid Bills of Material (BOM) utilizing various configuration/quoting tools.
• Generate a visual representation of large customer networks utilizing Visio or other tools.
• Maintain Adtran certifications on products and technologies – attend technical update webinars, read technical documentation etc. to stay current on the latest features and products released by Adtran.
• Generate design-related technical content for internal and external knowledgebase.
• Provide customer feedback on requests for new features and/or products to Product Management.
• Work closely with Design Engineering, Product Qualifications, and Technical Support to understand product capabilities and limitations and collaborate on new applications/solutions in which products are being recommended to ensure validation at all levels.
• Provide feedback to the corporate web team on improvements, errors, etc. on the technical product content on the public web site.
• Other projects and assignments may result and be assigned to accommodate the changing needs of the department and the Company.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in one of the following areas of study:
  • Computer Science
  • Math
  • Software Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
• Minimum GPA 3.0 (4.0 scale)
• Proficiency in at least one programming language, such as Python, R, C++
• Familiarity with database management tools and SQL
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Experience with Data Visualization tools, such as Tableau
• Knowledge of Layer 2 and Layer 3 Networks

Preferred Qualifications

• Self-motivated individuals with the confidence to take control of their careers
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Willingness to try new things and thrive in ambiguity
• Strong proven leadership capabilities
• Passion for team-focused, goal-oriented work
• Flexibility, willingness to adapt in a changing, fast-moving environment

Rotational Experiences

Rotational business areas include the following:

• Product Management – Adtran’s Product Managers are responsible for all aspects of the Product Life Cycle management including market analysis, product definition and positioning and the overall success of the product.
• Product Support – Technical Support Engineers are true trusted advisors who deploy products and deliver value at customers’ sites.
• Applications Engineering – Applications Engineers are closely aligned to the sales team and designing Adtran solutions into the customer’s networks. They design, development, and deploy Adtran’s products by building standard and custom demos/presentations and applications to support the sales teams.
• Technical Sales – Sales Solutions Engineers support the sales organization and are deeply involved in how the customer’s network integrates into Adtran solutions.
• Inside Sales – Inside Sales Representatives are committed to educating customers and providing superior service. They play a crucial role in establishing relationships and marketing Adtran’s brand in a way that is positive, honest, and professional.
• International Assignment – Three-week rotation in our United Kingdom office working with Product Support, Technical Sales, and Applications Engineering supporting the UK market.

Rotation Program Highlights

Participants can expect a wide range of work experiences depending on the assigned business area. Some common experiences include:

• Interesting and challenging work opportunities across multiple areas of high-touch customer facing organizations
• Experience working with global teams, including an international work assignment
• Networking opportunities with peers, technical experts, and senior leadership
• Leadership training and development opportunities
• Formal project presentations, evaluations, coaching and feedback throughout each rotation
• Contribute to a specific business area while gaining exposure to the organization and learning how business areas interact.