Mixed-Signal C/C++ Modelling Coop (Winter 2026)

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Ottawa is seeking a Co-op Student to join their DSP/Analog ASIC team. You will develop and verify behavioral C/C++ models for high-speed mixed-signal integrated circuits. This role requires a background in Electrical Engineering and strong skills in C/C++. The position offers competitive hourly pay and additional student benefits.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Company-paid holidays

Paid sick leave

Vacation pay

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related.
• Strong understanding of object-oriented design principles.
• Familiarity with mixed-signal circuit concepts and design principles.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain C/C++ behavioral models for mixed-signal circuits.
• Collaborate with design engineers to understand circuit specifications.
• Implement verification testbenches for model validation.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Problem-solving skills

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Matlab

Python

Job description

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.

The Opportunity:

3-4 month work term: January – April 2026

How You Will Contribute

Join our DSP/Analog ASIC team as a Co-op Student and contribute to the development of high-speed mixed-signal integrated circuits. You’ll help build and verify behavioral C/C++ models of circuit blocks used for hardware verification, calibration/test algorithm design, and firmware prototyping.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain C/C++ behavioral models for various mixed-signal circuits (e.g., ADCs, DACs, PLLs, SERDES) in a Linux development environment.

• Collaborate with design engineers to understand circuit specifications and translate them into accurate and efficient C/C++ models.

• Implement and execute verification testbenches for model validation against design specifications and circuit simulations.

• Analyze simulation results, debug model discrepancies, and provide feedback to the design team.

• Document model specifications, verification plans, and results.

• Participate in team meetings and contribute to technical discussions.

The Must Haves

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.

• Strong understanding of C/C++ programming languages and object-oriented design principles.

• Familiarity with mixed-signal circuit concepts (e.g., analog-to-digital conversion, digital-to-analog conversion, clocking mechanisms) and digital/analog circuit design principles.

• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Matlab, Python) is an asset.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Pay Range

The hourly pay range for this position is $25.00 - $34.00

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.

Not ready to apply?

Join our Talent Community to get relevant job alerts straight to your inbox.

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.