About the role

Join BT’s optical networks research team to help shape the next generation of optical and quantum network capabilities. We’re recruiting three Research Technical Managers who will turn research into practical outcomes by building proofs of concept, developing demonstrations and leading work across lab, exchange and network environments.

These roles share a common foundation in optical networks and/or quantum networks, but we’re looking for a complementary mix of expertise across the three vacancies. 

•    In addition to the quantum networks expertise and optical networks expertise we are also looking for someone who will specialise in and lead projects - Experience leading complex technical or research projects from concept through to practical delivery.

•      For our third vacancy, we are looking for someone who will bring their people leadership alongside a strong technical background. 
The roles can be based in Ipswich or Bristol and our hybrid working model means you are expected to be in the office 3 days per week.

What you’ll be doing

•    Lead the development of optical or quantum proofs of concept, demonstrations and field trials.
•    Shape and deliver research projects that support BT’s future optical network, security and potential quantum service capabilities.
•    Configure, connect and integrate test equipment and vendor equipment for lab experiments and operational trials.
•    Verify optical network or quantum system performance in the lab.
•    Build practical experimental setups using optical fibre, lasers, receivers and related systems.
•    Support trials in operational environments, including exchanges, by installing and provisioning equipment.
•    Provide technical direction and help colleagues deliver complex research activities.
•    Depending on your experience, lead projects, coordinate teams and support the development of people.
•    Collaborate with stakeholders across BT, as well as universities, vendors and organisations across the global optics and quantum ecosystem.
•    Translate emerging research into capabilities that could support BT’s networks, customers and future products.

Essential Skills / Experience

The expertise we’re looking for across the three vacancies, we’re looking for strength in one or more of the following sub-areas. You are not expected to be an expert in all three.

• Project Leadership / delivery 
• People leadership
• Experience in Quantum / Optical Networks

Desirable Skills / Experience

Quantum networks
•    Deep expertise in quantum networks, supported by a strong research profile.
•    Experience contributing to respected research, publications, conferences or major quantum initiatives.
•    The credibility to engage with leading specialists and help shape BT’s direction in quantum networking.

Optical networks
•    Deep expertise in areas such as optical fibre, optical sensing, optical transmission or optical networking.
•    Hands-on experience building optical network demonstrators, provisioning optical networks or developing lab-based systems.
•    Practical experience working with optical equipment and translating research into network applications.

The skills and experience you’ll need

•    Deep technical expertise: Significant expertise in optical networks and/or quantum networks. You do not need to specialise in both.
•    Hands-on research experience: Practical experience building, testing or demonstrating optical or quantum systems—not solely theoretical, modelling or desk-based research.
•    Technical leadership: The ability to lead research activities, influence technical direction and work effectively with colleagues and partners.

You may also bring experience in one or more of the following areas:

•    Leading projects, teams or people in a research, technology or network environment.
•    Building optical systems using components such as optical fibre, lasers and receivers.
•    Optical transmission, optical networking, optical sensing or quantum systems.
•    Configuring IP or Ethernet networks and associated vendor equipment.
•    Deploying or building networks in a university, technology vendor, network operator or similar environment.
•    Working with equipment or platforms from organisations such as Nokia, Ciena, Ericsson or Cisco.
•    Developing a strong external profile through publications, conferences, collaborations or research programmes.

Why join us
You’ll work alongside highly regarded researchers on ambitious optical and quantum projects, with opportunities to lead pioneering experiments and practical demonstrations. The team’s position within BT creates broad scope to collaborate with leading companies, universities and specialists worldwide.

This is an opportunity to shape major areas of research, develop people and projects, and see your work move from the lab towards real network and customer applications.

Our Package

Tailored benefits make a real difference. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range to support your growth, wellbeing, and everyday life. You can design the package to suit you and your lifestyle. Your core benefits include: 

10% on target annual bonus 

Access to an online private GP 24/7 for you and your immediate family  

Market-leading paid carers leave with up to 2 weeks off  

Equalised maternity, paternity, and adoption leave – 18 weeks’ full pay and 8 weeks’ half pay 

Discounted EE and BT products, including mobile and broadband 

Market leading Pension scheme – 5% from you and 10% from us 

Holiday purchase scheme 

You can select additional benefits, including healthcare, dental, gym memberships and more when you’re ready.