Photonics Technical Prime

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 92,000 - 147,000; Full time

Job summary

Ciena is seeking an experienced test engineering professional to lead the Ottawa-based 6500 RLS location and coordinate global activities. You will drive development, enhancements, and debugging of automated test systems for modem and photonics production.

The role requires hands-on hardware testing expertise, strong C#/Python/Lua software development, and collaboration with contract manufacturers to ensure robust test processes and tooling across manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Security, Computer, or Electronics).
• 5–10 years of SYS/RLS LCM/Failure Analysis experience in electronics, Contract Manufacturers, or test engineering.
• Strong technical background in testing, debugging, and validating telecom hardware.
• Hands-on experience with software development using C#, TestStand, Python, and LUA.
• Expertise in laboratory environments, test equipment, and interpreting PCB schematics and layouts.
• Experience working with Contract Manufacturers (e.g., Sanmina, Celestica, Flex, USI, Jabil).

Responsibilities

• Lead the Ottawa-base 6500 Reconfigurable Line System (RLS) location and oversee activities across additional global sites.
• Drive development, enhancement, and troubleshooting of automated test systems supporting modem and photonics production.
• Guide test strategy through Design for Testability input, cross-functional collaboration, and prototype validation.
• Strengthen manufacturing readiness by supporting Contract Manufacturers and internal teams with robust test processes and tooling.
• Optimize and scale test methodologies to improve efficiency, adaptability, and throughput.
• Build and integrate tools and interfaces into Ciena’s broader manufacturing ecosystem, including data flows and production systems.
• Advance adoption of new technologies to evolve and modernize test operations.

Skills

Telecom hardware testing

Lab environments

Contract manufacturers coordination

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Security, Computer, or Electronics)

Tools

C#

TestStand

Python

Lua

Job description

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.

How You Will Make An Impact

• Lead the Ottawa-base 6500 Reconfigurable Line System (RLS) location and oversee activities across additional global sites.
• Drive development, enhancement, and troubleshooting of automated test systems supporting modem and photonics production.
• Guide test strategy through Design for Testability input, cross-functional collaboration, and prototype validation.
• Strengthen manufacturing readiness by supporting Contract Manufacturers and internal teams with robust test processes and tooling.
• Optimize and scale test methodologies to improve efficiency, adaptability, and throughput.
• Build and integrate tools and interfaces into Ciena’s broader manufacturing ecosystem, including data flows and production systems.
• Advance adoption of new technologies to evolve and modernize test operations.

The Must Haves

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Security, Computer, or Electronics).
• 5–10 years of SYS/RLS LCM/Failure Analysis experience in electronics, Contract Manufacturers, or test engineering.
• Strong technical background in testing, debugging, and validating telecom hardware.
• Hands‑on experience with software development using C#, TestStand, Python, and LUA.
• Expertise in laboratory environments, test equipment, and interpreting PCB schematics and layouts.
• Experience working with Contract Manufacturers (e.g., Sanmina, Celestica, Flex, USI, Jabil).

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of Ciena Optical Modem products.
• Familiarity with Electro‑Optics Secure product development and testing.
• Experience implementing test systems aligned with security standards and protocols.
• Curiosity and willingness to experiment with emerging technologies.
• Additional language skills such as Spanish or Thai.
• Ability to travel internationally as needed.
• Strong organizational skills and the assertiveness required to guide engineering partners.

Pay Range

The annual pay range for this position is $91, 800 - $146, 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.

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.