Photonic Card Software Developer - New Grad 2025

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 62,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a talented software engineer to join their innovative team. This role focuses on designing and implementing cutting-edge photonic card software for advanced Optical Ethernet Network products. You will leverage your expertise in programming languages such as C and Python, while working within a collaborative environment that prioritizes personal growth and wellbeing. The company offers a flexible work culture and a comprehensive benefits package, ensuring you can thrive both professionally and personally. If you're passionate about technology and eager to make a meaningful impact, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(K) with company matching

Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Paid holidays

Paid sick leave

Vacation time

Qualifications

• Proficiency in C and Python with experience in software development for embedded systems.
• Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering or computer science fields is essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain real-time photonic card software for Optical Ethernet products.
• Integrate and implement advanced coherent optics and network management solutions.

Skills

C Programming

Python

Software Development

Debugging

Agile Methodologies

Embedded Systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer or Electrical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science

Tools

Linux

VxWorks

Git

Jira

Google Test

JUnit

Robot

PyTest

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.

How You Will Contribute:

Our team designs, implements, integrates, and maintains real-time photonic card software for several of Ciena’s Optical Ethernet Network flagship products, leveraging advanced coherent optics, automated OTN, packet and SONET/SDH switching, control plane, and unified network management—to help network operators scale, manage, and differentiate their services.

The Must Haves:

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in computer or electrical engineering, computer science, or similar disciplines
• Proficiency with C and Python

Assets:

• Developing software for embedded systems or telecom products
• Understanding of CPU hardware architectures, hardware functional specifications, hardware timing diagrams, device data sheets
• Understanding of real-time operating systems and embedded systems
• Using Linux and VxWorks and developing software for those targets
• Software development tools such as git, BitBucket, Gerrit, Jira, etc.
• Unit test frameworks such as Google Test, JUnit, Robot, PyTest, and the like
• Debuggers and tools (e.g., gdb) for developing and troubleshooting software
• High-level programming and scripting languages such as C++, Java, Perl, Tcl, LUA, bash
• Software development methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall
• Familiarity with datacom and telecom concepts such as DWDM, SONET/SDH, OTN, Ethernet, OSI Model, TCP/IP, MPLS

Pay Range:
The annual pay range for this position is $62,100 - $99,100 CAD. 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.