Photonic Hardware Engineer (NEW GRAD)

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.
Position Overview:
Ciena's customers run many of the largest data communications and telecommunications networks in the world, connecting hundreds of millions of users and devices. The Photonic Hardware team is responsible for the entire lifecycle of hardware for Ciena’s Photonic Line systems from design, development, product introduction, and continual lifecycle management (LCM). Technologies of focus include Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers, Raman amplifiers, ROADMs, Wavelength-Selective Switches, Optical Channel Monitors, OTDR, etc.
Responsibilities of this position include lab testing and automation, contributing to the development of circuit packs from early design to product release, and helping manage the life cycle of these products.
As this role requires physical laboratory access, this position is on-site and based in Ottawa, Canada.
Requirements:
Bachelors, Masters, or Ph.D. in engineering or a similar technical discipline (e.g. Physics, CS, etc.)
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Solid programming skills in Python and numpy
Motivated self-starter with strong written and oral communications skills
Able to collaborate effectively in person as well as remotely
Assets:
Experience with lab test automation in Python or MATLAB
Experience programming in MATLAB
Background or experience in optical or electronic hardware design and/or troubleshooting
Knowledge of optical physics and/or optical networking
Experience with web-based software applications and REST APIs
Experience with any of the following:
Pandas
Apache Airflow and Spark
SQL or other databases
OpenSearch / Elasticsearch
Jenkins
Pay Range
Bachelors/Masters: The annual pay range for this position is $68,800 - $98,800
PHD: The annual pay range for this position is $74,200 - $118,600
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.
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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.