Software Design/Engineer - New Grad

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

Ciena is seeking new graduates interested in developing software for next-generation optical transport solutions. This role contributes to embedded software development across the full software development lifecycle while collaborating with hardware, software, and systems engineers. The position provides opportunities to work on next-generation optical network platforms and technologies.

How you will make an impact:

• Develop embedded software on next generation optical network platforms.
• Participate in all stages of the software development cycle, including requirements analysis, design, implementation, test, and maintenance.
• Design and develop unit tests and test-automation suites.
• Troubleshoot software issues and work with hardware, software and systems engineers to identify the root cause.

The must haves:

• Education: University degree in Computer Science / Engineering or equivalent degree.
• Experience: Previous internship, co-op, or applied project experience relevant to the role.
• Software development expertise, particularly large-scale, real-time embedded systems or solutions.
• Capable of delivering on multiple parallel priorities.
• Fast learner with excellent debugging skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Familiarity with Linux development environment.

Nice to haves:

• Familiarity with developing software on multi-processor, highly concurrent systems (good knowledge of mutual exclusion, synchronization, interrupt handling, inter-process communication, etc.).
• Expertise in C/C++ & Python programming language.
• Experience with building APIs and services using REST, SOAP, etc.
• Experience with automated test frameworks such as Jenkins.
• Experience with Scrum/Agile development methodologies.
• Experience with design and development tools such as Git, Eclipse, JIRA, GDB, Yocto, etc.

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is: $72,000 to $115,000.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.