Quality Management System Specialist

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.

The Quality Management System (QMS) Specialist is responsible for improving and maintaining Ciena’s Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal policies. This role will focus on driving process excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure quality standards are consistently upheld. You must be curious, motivated and have a passion for improvement.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Quality Management System (QMS) Improvement and Maintenance:
  • Improve and maintain the QMS to ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, TL 9000) and regulatory requirements.
  • Conduct regular reviews and audits of QMS processes to ensure effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
  • Manage document control processes to ensure accurate and up-to-date documentation of policies, procedures, and records.
• Process Improvement and Optimization:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to analyze and optimize workflows, ensuring alignment with quality standards and business objectives.
  • Identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and risks within processes and recommend corrective and preventive actions.
• Compliance and Auditing:
  • Conduct internal audits to assess compliance with QMS requirements and identify non-conformances.
  • Prepare for and support external audits by regulatory bodies, customers, or certification organizations.
  • Track and manage audit findings, ensuring timely resolution and implementation of corrective actions.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
  • Develop and manage quality metrics and KPIs to monitor the performance of processes and systems.
  • Prepare regular reports and presentations for leadership teams, highlighting trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Use data-driven insights to support decision-making and strategic planning.
• Training and Awareness:
  • Develop and deliver training programs to ensure employees understand and adhere to QMS policies and procedures.
  • Promote a culture of quality and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Risk Management:
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to product quality, processes, and regulatory compliance.
  • Implement robust risk management practices to proactively address potential issues.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
  • Work closely with engineering, operations, supply chain, and customer-facing teams to align quality objectives with business goals.
  • Act as a point of contact for quality-related inquiries and concerns from internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• A four-year degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Quality Management, Data Analytics, or IT is required.
• 3+ years of experience in quality management, regulatory compliance, or process improvement roles.
• Familiarity with Quality Management Systems (QMS) and industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, TL 9000).
• Experience in the telecommunications, networking, or technology industry is preferred but not required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams.
• Highly collaborative and able to work with diverse cultures, opinions and time zones.
• Proficient in quality tools and methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean, FMEA, etc.).
• Experience with data analysis tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or similar).
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Quality certifications such as CQE (Certified Quality Engineer), Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar are a plus.

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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.