Lead Transport Engineer

Great Plains Communications is seeking a highly skilled Lead Network Engineer with deep expertise in high-end routing, QoS, and optical networking technologies.

This position can be located in either NE, IA, IN or CO.

This position will act as a technical authority across our next‑generation packet infrastructure solutions, working with platforms from Cisco, Ciena, and other leading vendors.  Will be responsible for architecting, deploying, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex IP/SR-MPLS and optical networks for carrier, service provider, and large enterprise environments. This position also plays a key role in collaborating across cross‑functional teams to drive engineering excellence.

Duties include but are not limited to:

Design, deploy, and support high-performance networks across core, edge, and service delivery environments using advanced routing and optical platforms.

Provide deep, hands-on engineering expertise and troubleshooting across multi-vendor systems.

Collaborate with NOC and Operations teams to resolve complex issues and implement best practices.

Maintain accurate network documentation, inventory, and configuration records.

Work closely with sales teams, architects, and customers to align solutions with technical requirements and industry trends.

Lead proofs of concept, lab validation efforts, and on-site or remote implementations for complex infrastructure deployments.

Partner with OEM vendors to resolve escalated issues and stay informed on new features and product roadmaps.

Mentor junior engineers and contribute to documentation, knowledge sharing, and standardization of best practices.

Support automation and reporting initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.

Contribute to solutions involving Transport/Backbone, Segment Routing, Mobile Back-haul, EVPN, and IP/Optical convergence.

Lead engineering teams during new network turn-ups, design initiatives, and best-practice adoption.

Maintain multiple advanced manufacturer-specific certifications.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in technical discipline preferred (equivalent practical experience considered).

5+ years of hands-on experience supporting carrier-grade or large enterprise network environments.

Proven expertise with Ciena, Cisco. 

Strong understanding of IP/MPLS, BGP, OSPF/ISIS, Segment Routing, QoS, and DWDM/ROADM technologies.

Solid background in optical transport, including coherent optics, ROADMs, and alien wavelengths.

Excellent communication skills with the ability to lead technical discussions and collaborate effectively with customers and internal teams.

Strong organizational, time management, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Willingness to participate in on-call rotations and work after hours as needed.

Commitment to continuous learning through lab work and self-study.

Team‑first mindset and a strong desire to contribute to broader organizational success.

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have)

Multiple industry-recognized certifications.

Cisco CCNP (Routing & Switching or Service Provider).

Ciena optical and Route / Switch certifications.

Experience with customer CPE devices (e.g., Accedian, Ciena NIDs).

Exposure to scripting or network automation (e.g., Python, Ansible).

Performs other special projects and duties as requested.

For CO applicants the salary range is $105k-130k

Competitive salary and benefits provided.  

To apply, visit www.gpcom.com/careers or click apply

High-performing network, high-performing people.

Great Plains Communications is the leading fiber-driven technology provider in the Midwest, delivering fast, reliable solutions including high-speed internet and a full suite of residential and business services to nearly 200 communities across Nebraska, Colorado, Iowa and Southeast Indiana. Powered by our 19,000-mile MEF-certified, high-capacity network, we provide state-of-the-art connectivity to homes, businesses and carriers backed by custom-built strategies, expert engineering and local support. 

What sets us apart? An unwavering commitment to customer experience. From design to deployment, maintenance and beyond, our local experts craft tailored solutions and deliver personalized, ongoing support to keep communities seamlessly connected.