Distinguished SW Systems Engineer (10343)

Extreme Networks, Inc. (EXTR) is a global leader in AI-powered cloud networking, committed to simplifying and securing IT operations through its unified platform. At the Office of the CTO, we have proven over years how to turn ideas into successful products and business models. The Innovation Lead will discover, prototype, and develop transformative ML/AI and edge computing solutions that position Extreme Networks at the forefront of intelligent networking. You will be a hands-on contributor who turns ambitious ideas into real products and validated business cases.

Responsibilities

Identify and evaluate emerging opportunities in ML/AI, edge computing, and adjacent technologies; Conceptualize, prototype, and validate innovative solutions—moving fast from question to proof of concept; Maintain awareness of industry trends, standards bodies, and competitive innovation; Build and architect real solution prototypes, not just advise on them—coding, validating, and documenting as needed; Partner with data scientists, engineers, and product teams to turn validated ideas into production-ready features; Contribute directly to solution delivery through prototyping, testing, and technical demonstrations; Drive continuous improvement by identifying and fixing technical and architectural bottlenecks; Engage customers, partners, and prospects to co-develop solutions and understand unmet needs; Translate complex technical ideas into compelling narratives for CTOs, VPs of Engineering, and business executives; Build reference and lighthouse accounts by delivering early access to breakthrough capabilities; Help commercialize innovations—market realization is essential for innovation success; Work effectively in a matrix with product management, engineering, marketing, and field teams; Participate in standards bodies and open-source communities to shape industry direction; Influence product roadmaps and feature prioritization based on customer insights; Champion a culture of critical thinking, experimentation, and calculated risk-taking; Author and present on emerging technologies, innovation frameworks, and breakthrough solutions; Evangelize our leadership in AI-powered networking and edge intelligence to customers and prospects; Build visibility for Extreme's innovation strategy and technical differentiation in the marketplace

Requirements

Demonstrated leadership in the WiFi market by chairing a working group within organizations such as the IEEE, Linux Foundation, TIP, Wi-Fi Alliance, or WBA; Experience working with regulatory bodies on WiFi standardization, frequency allocation, and spectrum management; Proven track record of regular public speaking engagements at WPLC, Wi-Fi Alliance events, or similar industry conferences; Proven record of successfully driving WiFi-related solutions and products from ideation through productization; Proven experience working with engineering teams to successfully introduce products into the WiFi market; Deep understanding of all WiFi standards and adjacent wireless technologies; CWNE-level knowledge or equivalent; RF design and troubleshooting experience in large scale deployments; Deep understanding of location technologies (BLE, UWB, 802.11az); Understanding of edge computing, distributed systems, and cloud networking architectures; Knowledge of efficient data structures, query optimization, and analytics technologies for WiFi; Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills—able to work effectively across diverse audiences; Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear narratives for CTOs, VPs, and executives; Proven track record of driving issues to resolution with strong customer satisfaction; Thrive working both independently and within high-performing cross-functional teams; Comfortable with ambiguity and defining problems before solutions exist; Ambitious and driven, thriving in a demanding and fast-paced environment; Willing to roll up your sleeves, take ownership, and be a proactive team player; Excellent critical thinking and business acumen to identify solutions with widespread adoption potential; Ability to balance exploration with execution, knowing when to pivot and when to commit; Comfortable with occasional travel and significant remote engagement with customers and partners; Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, related field, or equivalent professional experience

Nice to have

Background in product management or go-to-market strategy; Experience with AI operations (MLOps), data platforms, or analytics systems

Benefits

Work on problems that matter—networking the edge, securing cloud infrastructure, and bringing intelligence to billions of connected devices; Be part of a team where critical thinking and human creativity set us apart in the age of AI; Have the freedom to define the questions we need to ask; Have support to pursue ambitious ideas; See your innovations become products that change an industry