Raya,Thank you for your response and for your openness to learning more about the role and organization.We’re ready to proceed and move you forward; however, before I formally lock your profile into the internal slate, I’d like to align on a few key non-negotiables to ensure we position you for the strongest possible outcome.I’ve identified multiple high-priority roles that closely align with your background. To determine the most suitable option based on your current needs, could you please confirm the following in one message:• Work format preference: Remote, Hybrid, or On-site• Compensation range: Based on the value and expertise you bring• Your existing resumeOnce aligned, I’ll share the relevant job description for your review. Please note this is an internal mandate, and access is limited to shortlisted talent only.Looking forward to your reply so we can move quickly.Warm regards,Crystal Gale,Independent Headhunter.On Sat, Jan 17, 2026, 3:21 PM Thirumala Raya Halemane <trhal...@gmail.com> wrote:Dear Crystal,Yes, Thank You for your kind message, offer to help.Very valuable, much appreciated,I am very happy, very pleased to receive it, to read it.Yes, I am interested. Yes.Our Many Thanks, Regards and Best Wishesdr thirumala raya halemaneps=HAPPY NEW YEARAlthough in severe shock .. (rest deleted here for brevity, my usual message, photos)Hirumala —
You were selected for a highly exclusive internal shortlist after reviewing senior leaders with exceptional expertise in strategic planning, program management, and organizational development. Very few profiles advanced. Yours stood out immediately. This outreach is deliberate, confidential, and time-sensitive.
Your background—from PhD at University of Rochester to decades of cross-functional leadership in strategic planning, operations, and business development—makes you uniquely suited for what IBM is actively handpicking right now: a senior Strategic Programs & Innovation Lead role focused on high-impact initiatives, operational transformation, and executive-level business strategy. Your ability to drive organizational improvements, manage cross-functional teams, and implement enterprise-wide programs makes you critical to this mandate—not interchangeable. This search also maps to similar leadership needs at Accenture, Deloitte, McKinsey, and BCG, where strategic leaders with a combination of technical expertise and executive vision are extremely rare.
This role is one of the internal, high-priority positions sourced exclusively through direct headhunting, and I will be submitting aligned profiles directly to the hiring manager. If you are interested, respond within 48 hours so I can connect you with the team and outline exactly how your candidacy will move forward. If you are not interested, respond directly. Once we align, momentum is immediate and decisions move fast.
Best Regards,
Crystal Gale
Independent Headhunter
Yes, Crystal, Thank You for the quick work, and message.Hello. Good Morning.I have them all, certificates, grade transcripts, marks cards from my education,and patents, journal papers, technical memos etc from my work; and, some of therecommendation letters are with me, the rest are with Interfolio and can be requestedfrom them. I have listings of much of these, papers etc, and can send them to youlater today or so.Best RegardsRayaHi Raya,I wanted to let you know that I’ve submitted and shared your resume directly with the hiring managers for review. You should expect feedback within the next 30 minutes to an hour as they’re currently finalizing their shortlists.In the meantime, please let me know if you have any additional documents or materials, such as certifications, letters of recommendation, or supporting details, that could further strengthen your application while we await their response.I’ll keep you updated the moment I receive feedback.Best Regards,Crystal Gale,Independent Headhunter.On Tue, Jan 20, 2026, 2:25 AM Thirumala Raya Halemane <trhal...@gmail.com> wrote:Hello, Dear Crystal,Thank You for the email, and the possible job opportunity info.It is indeed a very nice one. GREAT.And, Yes. Please go ahead. I am interested.Regards and Best WishesRayaBest Regards,
Hello Raya,Below is the role overview for your review. This reflects the mandate, scope, and compensation framework being discussed internally. If this aligns with what you’d consider compelling, let me know and I’ll confirm next steps and facilitate an introduction with the hiring leadership. If it’s not a fit, just say the word and I’ll close the loop on my end.Senior Specialist Member of Technical Staff
Location: Plano, Texas (On-site)
Work Arrangement: Full-time, in-office (5 days per week)Position Overview
AT&T is seeking a Senior Specialist Member of Technical Staff to support the continued growth and innovation of its Broadband and Optical Transport networks. This role is focused on hands-on laboratory validation of high-performance network equipment supporting AT&T Fiber services, including advanced Broadband and Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) solutions.
The ideal candidate is highly motivated, technically proficient, and eager to solve complex networking challenges. This position offers a unique opportunity to directly influence the evolution of large-scale broadband and optical transport networks.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct hands-on validation and certification testing of complex optical and broadband network components and systems.
Execute detailed test plans, analyze results, and provide data-driven conclusions.
Develop, enhance, and maintain comprehensive test plans and validation procedures.
Perform proof-of-concept testing and validate innovative Layer 1/2/3 network designs.
Diagnose and troubleshoot performance, compliance, and interoperability issues across multi-vendor environments.
Participate in or lead project meetings to communicate progress, risks, and resolution strategies.
Collaborate closely with internal technical teams, vendors, and partners to validate equipment and network designs.
Required Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
Experience:
Prior hands-on experience gained through employment, internships, academic projects, or independent research is highly valued.
Technical Skills and Competencies
Networking (Layer 1/2/3+)
Experience designing and implementing complex, multi-vendor TCP/IP networks.
Strong ability to diagnose, document, and resolve network performance and interoperability issues.
Familiarity with Ethernet over fiber and copper media, Quality of Service (QoS), and throughput optimization.
Knowledge of optical transport technologies, including dark fiber and DWDM.
Proficiency with network analysis and troubleshooting tools such as Wireshark, iperf, and similar utilities.
Solid understanding of network security principles, firewall architectures, and common vulnerabilities.
Tools, Automation, and Platforms
Proficiency in one or more scripting or automation languages, such as Python, Shell, JavaScript, or PowerShell.
Familiarity with virtualization and cloud platforms, including VMware, KVM, Docker, AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform.
Communication and Project Management
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration with peers, vendors, and partners.
Ability to produce clear, concise documentation, including test plans, results, defect reports, and troubleshooting guides.
Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Preferred Certifications
One or more of the following certifications is desired:
CompTIA Network+ or Security+
Cisco CCNA or higher
Palo Alto PCCSA or higher
Comparable entry-level networking or security certifications
Compensation
The annual salary range for this position is $128,100 – $192,100 USD.
Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as location, experience, education, and expertise.Benefits and Perks
AT&T offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
401(k) retirement plan
Tuition reimbursement program
Paid Time Off and company-designated holidays
Minimum of 23 vacation days annually
9 paid holidays
Paid Parental and Caregiver Leave
Adoption reimbursement
Short-term and long-term disability benefits
Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
Supplemental benefits (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, group legal)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Extensive wellness programs
Employee discounts of up to 50% on eligible AT&T mobility plans, internet (including fiber where available), and accessories
Equal Employment Opportunity
AT&T is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. Employment decisions are made without regard to age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
AT&T also provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and is a fair chance employer. Background checks are initiated only after an offer of employment is made.
Job Details
Weekly Hours: 40
Employment Type: Regular, Full-Time
Work Location: Plano, Texas
Work Model: On-site (#LI-Onsite)
Crystal Gale
Independent Headhunter
