Software Engineer and Tools Developer Co-op (Fall 2025)

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking technology company that prioritizes a people-first culture. This role involves developing AI tools and embedded software for next-generation optical transport solutions. You'll work closely with experienced designers, enhancing your skills in a collaborative environment. The position offers a flexible work setting and the opportunity to contribute to innovative projects that have a meaningful societal impact. If you're passionate about technology and eager to grow, this is the perfect chance to make a difference in a dynamic team.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Company-paid holidays

Paid sick leave

Vacation pay

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering.
• Experience with Machine Learning and Kubernetes is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop AI tools and applications for telecommunications systems.
• Collaborate with senior designers for mentoring and coaching.

Skills

Machine Learning

Kubernetes

Embedded C Programming

Python

Go

BASH

Ethernet

TCP/IP

MPLS

DWDM

Education

Computer Science Degree

Computer Engineering Degree

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Jupyter

React.js

Git

Eclipse

JIRA

Confluence

GDB

Job description

Ciena is committed to our people-first philosophy. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a personalized and flexible work environment that empowers an individual’s passions, growth, wellbeing and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Ciena's next generation, purpose-built coherent metro router, designed to unify IP and Optical in the metro—with ultimate flexibility, future-proof extensibility, and improved network sustainability.

Join the next generation AI/ML/DL packet team delivering these Optical Ethernet Network solutions:

• Next Generation optical transport solutions
• Layer 2/3 switching and routing (Ethernet/MPLS)

Note, this work term is for a 4 month duration (extension possible)

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop AI tools (ML, Kubernetes), applications which extend the capabilities of system/platform

• Development of embedded, real-time software for telecommunications systems

• Coding and testing of software

• Support of testing activities in the release where feature is delivered

GENERAL ACTIVITIES

• Working closely with Senior Designers and architects who will provide mentoring and coaching

• Collaborating with other design and test support teams

• Problem Solving and analysis

• Contributing to your team

• Innovation

• Communication

• Scripting

• Embedded C programming

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Pursuing Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related degree

SKILLS WHICH ARE AN ASSET

• TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, Jupyter, React.js, REST APIs, Kubernetes

. C, C++ programming language experience

• Scripting experience, Python, Go, BASH

• Familiarity with datacom & telecom concepts such as Ethernet, TCP/IP, MPLS, DWDM

• Low-level Real-Time Software/Firmware Development

• Linux

• Linux as a software development environment

• Exposure to CLI, SNMP, NETCONF, REST, gRPC.

• Design and development tools such as: Git, Eclipse, JIRA, Confluence, GDB, Yocto

• YANG modeling language and toolchains

• Automation and Test

Pay Range: The hourly pay range for the position is $24.50 - $33.00

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.

In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers students access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation pay as required by applicable laws.

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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 anEqual 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.