Network Engineering Manager Jobs in California
Network Engineering Manager jobs in California are among the most active in the country, with strong demand concentrated in enterprise technology, telecommunications, cloud infrastructure, and defense contracting at every level from lead engineer through senior director. The largest hiring markets are the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where companies like Cisco Systems, Northrop Grumman, and Google maintain significant networking operations and infrastructure teams. The most in-demand specialties include cloud network architecture, software-defined networking, and cybersecurity-integrated network management. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Senior Director, Network Platform Engineering
- JR-163544
- Hybrid
- Redwood City
- Technology
- Full time
Who are we?
Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet.
Job Summary
Equinix is seeking a world-class Senior Director of Network Platform Engineering to define how one of the world’s most interconnected digital infrastructure platforms is designed, built, and evolved. This executive will lead the architecture, design, technology selection, and validation of Equinix’s global network across the full interconnection stack, from optical transport and Metro Connect to software-defined Equinix Fabric® and Fabric Cloud Router. The role will establish the technical foundation that enables Equinix to deliver secure, resilient, automated, and increasingly intelligent connectivity worldwide.
This is not a traditional network engineering role. It is an opportunity to shape the future of digital interconnection at a moment when applications and AI agents are beginning to provision and optimize infrastructure through software. The successful candidate will set architectural direction, make critical technology bets, engage the world’s leading cloud and AI companies, and build the team that architects the next generation of Equinix infrastructure.
The role may be based at Equinix headquarters in Redwood City, California, or in another major Equinix metro.
The Opportunity
Equinix is advancing from foundational connectivity toward an intelligent, software-defined interconnection platform. Fabric One is being developed as an intent-driven, any-to-any connectivity platform that enables applications and AI agents to provision their own networks. Fabric Intelligence introduces an AI-native operations layer designed to manage and optimize network performance. Fabric Geo Zones extends this architecture further by enabling compliant data paths across jurisdictions.
The Senior Director of Network Architecture will determine how these capabilities come together as a secure, scalable, and coherent global platform. This leader will balance the demands of today’s production network with the emerging requirements of distributed AI, autonomous infrastructure, data sovereignty, and real-time digital services.
Responsibilities
What You Will Own
Define the Future of the Equinix Network
Own the end-to-end architecture for the Equinix interconnection portfolio, including:
Equinix Fabric
Fabric Cloud Router
Metro Connect
Internet Exchange
Network Edge
Precision Time
Internet Access
Future software-defined and AI-enabled interconnection services
Create an architectural foundation that supports the company’s long-term product ambitions and enables a seamless, multiyear roadmap of differentiated products and services
Architect the Next Generation of Interconnection
Serve as the design authority for the network supporting Fabric One and future intent-driven connectivity capabilities
Translate product vision into a secure, resilient, and scalable network architecture capable of supporting increasingly dynamic applications, distributed AI workloads, autonomous services, and machine-to-machine infrastructure consumption
Lead Technology Strategy and Critical Design Decisions
Set Equinix’s strategy across optical transport, network fabrics, routing, software-defined interconnection, automation, and emerging infrastructure technologies
Lead the evaluation, selection, and validation of technologies across:
Network silicon
Optical and coherent systems
DWDM and OTN
IP/MPLS and BGP
Software-defined networking
Network orchestration
Automation and telemetry platforms
Vendor and open technology ecosystems
Make disciplined architectural trade-offs that improve scalability, reliability, customer experience, and long-term economics
Build Intelligence into the Network
Shape the technical foundation for Fabric Intelligence and other AI-native capabilities that manage, optimize, and protect the Equinix network
Advance Equinix toward increasingly predictive and autonomous network operations through intelligent observability, intent-driven orchestration, automated optimization, and closed-loop remediation
Enable Distributed AI and Data Sovereignty
Partner with Product to define the network architecture supporting emerging capabilities such as Distributed AI Hub, Inference Exchange, and future AI infrastructure services
Design for the performance, data movement, latency, security, and resiliency requirements of distributed AI training and inference
Advance the architecture for Fabric Geo Zones, enabling compliant data paths and infrastructure consumption across geographic and jurisdictional boundaries
Deliver Architecture That Operates Reliably at Global Scale
Partner closely with Network Operations to translate architecture and design into a highly reliable production network
Ensure architectural decisions account for operational readiness, lifecycle management, observability, resilience, maintainability, and the realities of running mission-critical global infrastructure
Engage Customers and Shape the Industry
Represent Equinix’s network architecture with senior executives, strategic customers, board stakeholders, and industry audiences
Engage CTO-level leaders across hyperscalers, neoclouds, network providers, technology partners, and the broader digital infrastructure ecosystem
Use these relationships to anticipate market shifts, influence partner roadmaps, and ensure Equinix’s architecture remains aligned with the needs of the world’s most demanding infrastructure customers
Build a World-Class Architecture Organization
Recruit, develop, and lead an exceptional global team of network architects, systems engineers, and technical program managers
Create an environment capable of attracting and retaining engineers who have operated at cloud and hyperscale network scale
Establish clear technical standards, raise architectural quality, and build a culture of accountability, innovation, and engineering excellence
What Success Looks Like
Establish a clear, multiyear architecture for Equinix’s global interconnection platform
Create the technical foundation for Fabric One and future intent-driven network services
Accelerate the evolution toward intelligent and autonomous network operations
Enable new products supporting distributed AI, cloud connectivity, and data sovereignty
Improve alignment among Architecture, Product, Engineering, and Network Operations
Make technology and vendor decisions that improve performance, reliability, scalability, and economics
Build an architecture organization recognized for technical excellence and industry influence
Strengthen Equinix’s credibility with major cloud, AI, network, and infrastructure partners
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
15+ years of experience designing, building, or operating large-scale global networks
Direct experience at a major public cloud provider or responsibility for a hyperscale carrier, exchange, or similarly complex global network
Deep expertise across optical networking, DWDM, OTN, coherent systems, IP/MPLS, BGP at scale, SD-WAN, and software-defined interconnection
Demonstrated success defining architecture and technology strategy for mission-critical infrastructure
Proven experience leading senior engineers and building high-performing technical organizations
Ability to translate product and business strategy into scalable architecture and executable roadmaps
Strong executive presence, including experience engaging senior customers, executive teams, boards, strategic partners, and industry audiences
Ability to influence across Product, Engineering, Operations, Security, and commercial organizations without relying solely on direct authority
Preferred Qualifications
Experience designing network infrastructure for distributed AI training, inference, or other high-performance computing workloads
Understanding of the latency, bandwidth, data movement, and resiliency requirements associated with AI infrastructure
Experience with intent-driven networking, OpenAPI-based orchestration, autonomous operations, or software-defined infrastructure
Familiarity with data sovereignty, jurisdictional routing, and compliance-driven network design
Experience within interconnection ecosystems, internet exchanges, carrier-neutral colocation, or cloud exchange platforms
Demonstrated industry impact through standards participation, open-source contributions, patents, publications, or external thought leadership
Why This Role Matters
The next generation of infrastructure will not be provisioned solely by people. It will increasingly be consumed and optimized by applications, platforms, and AI agents. Equinix sits at the intersection of the networks, clouds, partners, and infrastructure upon which that future depends.
The Senior Director of Network Architecture will determine how those environments connect and how Equinix evolves from a global interconnection leader into an increasingly intelligent, software-defined infrastructure platform.
This is an opportunity to build more than a network. It is an opportunity to define the architecture through which the next generation of digital and AI services operates.
The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:
United States - Redwood City Office GHQ : 240,000 - 360,000 USD / Annual
Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.
The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.
Equinix Benefits
As an employee, you become important to Equinix’s success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we’re providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you’ll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.
Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.
US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing form.
Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law.
We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here.
This posting is a new position within our organization.Senior Director, Network Platform Engineering
- JR-163544
- Hybrid
- Redwood City
- Technology
- Full time
Who are we?
Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet.
Job Summary
Equinix is seeking a world-class Senior Director of Network Platform Engineering to define how one of the world’s most interconnected digital infrastructure platforms is designed, built, and evolved. This executive will lead the architecture, design, technology selection, and validation of Equinix’s global network across the full interconnection stack, from optical transport and Metro Connect to software-defined Equinix Fabric® and Fabric Cloud Router. The role will establish the technical foundation that enables Equinix to deliver secure, resilient, automated, and increasingly intelligent connectivity worldwide.
This is not a traditional network engineering role. It is an opportunity to shape the future of digital interconnection at a moment when applications and AI agents are beginning to provision and optimize infrastructure through software. The successful candidate will set architectural direction, make critical technology bets, engage the world’s leading cloud and AI companies, and build the team that architects the next generation of Equinix infrastructure.
The role may be based at Equinix headquarters in Redwood City, California, or in another major Equinix metro.
The Opportunity
Equinix is advancing from foundational connectivity toward an intelligent, software-defined interconnection platform. Fabric One is being developed as an intent-driven, any-to-any connectivity platform that enables applications and AI agents to provision their own networks. Fabric Intelligence introduces an AI-native operations layer designed to manage and optimize network performance. Fabric Geo Zones extends this architecture further by enabling compliant data paths across jurisdictions.
The Senior Director of Network Architecture will determine how these capabilities come together as a secure, scalable, and coherent global platform. This leader will balance the demands of today’s production network with the emerging requirements of distributed AI, autonomous infrastructure, data sovereignty, and real-time digital services.
Responsibilities
What You Will Own
Define the Future of the Equinix Network
Own the end-to-end architecture for the Equinix interconnection portfolio, including:
Equinix Fabric
Fabric Cloud Router
Metro Connect
Internet Exchange
Network Edge
Precision Time
Internet Access
Future software-defined and AI-enabled interconnection services
Create an architectural foundation that supports the company’s long-term product ambitions and enables a seamless, multiyear roadmap of differentiated products and services
Architect the Next Generation of Interconnection
Serve as the design authority for the network supporting Fabric One and future intent-driven connectivity capabilities
Translate product vision into a secure, resilient, and scalable network architecture capable of supporting increasingly dynamic applications, distributed AI workloads, autonomous services, and machine-to-machine infrastructure consumption
Lead Technology Strategy and Critical Design Decisions
Set Equinix’s strategy across optical transport, network fabrics, routing, software-defined interconnection, automation, and emerging infrastructure technologies
Lead the evaluation, selection, and validation of technologies across:
Network silicon
Optical and coherent systems
DWDM and OTN
IP/MPLS and BGP
Software-defined networking
Network orchestration
Automation and telemetry platforms
Vendor and open technology ecosystems
Make disciplined architectural trade-offs that improve scalability, reliability, customer experience, and long-term economics
Build Intelligence into the Network
Shape the technical foundation for Fabric Intelligence and other AI-native capabilities that manage, optimize, and protect the Equinix network
Advance Equinix toward increasingly predictive and autonomous network operations through intelligent observability, intent-driven orchestration, automated optimization, and closed-loop remediation
Enable Distributed AI and Data Sovereignty
Partner with Product to define the network architecture supporting emerging capabilities such as Distributed AI Hub, Inference Exchange, and future AI infrastructure services
Design for the performance, data movement, latency, security, and resiliency requirements of distributed AI training and inference
Advance the architecture for Fabric Geo Zones, enabling compliant data paths and infrastructure consumption across geographic and jurisdictional boundaries
Deliver Architecture That Operates Reliably at Global Scale
Partner closely with Network Operations to translate architecture and design into a highly reliable production network
Ensure architectural decisions account for operational readiness, lifecycle management, observability, resilience, maintainability, and the realities of running mission-critical global infrastructure
Engage Customers and Shape the Industry
Represent Equinix’s network architecture with senior executives, strategic customers, board stakeholders, and industry audiences
Engage CTO-level leaders across hyperscalers, neoclouds, network providers, technology partners, and the broader digital infrastructure ecosystem
Use these relationships to anticipate market shifts, influence partner roadmaps, and ensure Equinix’s architecture remains aligned with the needs of the world’s most demanding infrastructure customers
Build a World-Class Architecture Organization
Recruit, develop, and lead an exceptional global team of network architects, systems engineers, and technical program managers
Create an environment capable of attracting and retaining engineers who have operated at cloud and hyperscale network scale
Establish clear technical standards, raise architectural quality, and build a culture of accountability, innovation, and engineering excellence
What Success Looks Like
Establish a clear, multiyear architecture for Equinix’s global interconnection platform
Create the technical foundation for Fabric One and future intent-driven network services
Accelerate the evolution toward intelligent and autonomous network operations
Enable new products supporting distributed AI, cloud connectivity, and data sovereignty
Improve alignment among Architecture, Product, Engineering, and Network Operations
Make technology and vendor decisions that improve performance, reliability, scalability, and economics
Build an architecture organization recognized for technical excellence and industry influence
Strengthen Equinix’s credibility with major cloud, AI, network, and infrastructure partners
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
15+ years of experience designing, building, or operating large-scale global networks
Direct experience at a major public cloud provider or responsibility for a hyperscale carrier, exchange, or similarly complex global network
Deep expertise across optical networking, DWDM, OTN, coherent systems, IP/MPLS, BGP at scale, SD-WAN, and software-defined interconnection
Demonstrated success defining architecture and technology strategy for mission-critical infrastructure
Proven experience leading senior engineers and building high-performing technical organizations
Ability to translate product and business strategy into scalable architecture and executable roadmaps
Strong executive presence, including experience engaging senior customers, executive teams, boards, strategic partners, and industry audiences
Ability to influence across Product, Engineering, Operations, Security, and commercial organizations without relying solely on direct authority
Preferred Qualifications
Experience designing network infrastructure for distributed AI training, inference, or other high-performance computing workloads
Understanding of the latency, bandwidth, data movement, and resiliency requirements associated with AI infrastructure
Experience with intent-driven networking, OpenAPI-based orchestration, autonomous operations, or software-defined infrastructure
Familiarity with data sovereignty, jurisdictional routing, and compliance-driven network design
Experience within interconnection ecosystems, internet exchanges, carrier-neutral colocation, or cloud exchange platforms
Demonstrated industry impact through standards participation, open-source contributions, patents, publications, or external thought leadership
Why This Role Matters
The next generation of infrastructure will not be provisioned solely by people. It will increasingly be consumed and optimized by applications, platforms, and AI agents. Equinix sits at the intersection of the networks, clouds, partners, and infrastructure upon which that future depends.
The Senior Director of Network Architecture will determine how those environments connect and how Equinix evolves from a global interconnection leader into an increasingly intelligent, software-defined infrastructure platform.
This is an opportunity to build more than a network. It is an opportunity to define the architecture through which the next generation of digital and AI services operates.
The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:
United States - Redwood City Office GHQ : 240,000 - 360,000 USD / Annual
Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.
The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.
Equinix Benefits
As an employee, you become important to Equinix’s success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we’re providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you’ll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.
Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.
US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing form.
Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law.
We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here.
This posting is a new position within our organization.See All 30 Network Engineering Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsNetwork Engineering Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Network Engineering Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware
- Science & Research
- Retail
- Automotive
- Technology & Software
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in network engineering manager jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related engineering field
- Five or more years of hands-on network engineering experience with at least two in a leadership role
- Active CCIE, CCNP, or equivalent industry certification recognized by California enterprise employers
- Demonstrated experience managing WAN, LAN, and cloud networking environments at enterprise scale
- Proficiency with network automation tools and platforms such as Ansible, Python scripting, or Terraform
- Strong vendor management and cross-functional collaboration skills within large California technology organizations
Network Engineering Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a network engineering manager in California?
The most direct path is building several years of hands-on network engineering experience before moving into management. California does not require a state-issued license for this role, but employers consistently expect a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Industry certifications such as CCNP or CCIE carry significant weight with California hiring teams, particularly in the Bay Area and Los Angeles technology corridors. Demonstrating experience leading projects or mentoring junior engineers strengthens a candidacy considerably.
How much do network engineering managers make in California?
Network engineering managers in California earn a median of about $210,280 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $137,900 for the lowest 10% to over $296,130 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire network engineering managers in California?
Employers hiring network engineering managers in California right now include Apple, Meta, and Amazon, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. California's concentration of technology headquarters, defense contractors, and large telecommunications providers makes it one of the deepest markets in the country for this role.
Which California cities have the most network engineering manager jobs?
San Francisco, Sunnyvale, and Menlo Park have the most network engineering manager openings in California. The Bay Area leads because of its density of cloud and enterprise technology companies, while Los Angeles draws hiring from media, aerospace, and defense sectors, and San Diego's activity is driven by its established defense contracting and biotech network infrastructure needs.
Are there remote network engineering manager jobs in California?
Yes, but they are less common than in purely software-focused roles, since network engineering managers often need to oversee physical infrastructure, data centers, and on-site teams. About 63% of network engineering manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, with remote arrangements most typical for strategy, vendor management, and cloud-focused positions rather than roles requiring hands-on hardware oversight.
How can I get hired as a network engineering manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is moving up from a senior network engineer role into a team lead or project lead position before pursuing a formal management title. Large California technology employers and defense contractors such as those headquartered in the Bay Area and San Diego frequently hire associate network engineers and promote internally into management tracks. Earning a CCNP certification and taking on mentorship or cross-functional project responsibilities in an existing role signals readiness to California hiring managers far more effectively than applying for manager titles cold.
Where can I find and apply to network engineering manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to network engineering manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across industries and metros. Find the roles that fit your experience and apply directly.
See All 30 Network Engineering Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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