RLS Photonics Software Engineer - 2026 New Grads

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 65,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company based in Ottawa is seeking a Software Engineer to develop embedded software for a next-generation optical network platform. You will contribute to all stages of software development and troubleshoot issues in collaboration with various teams. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science, and experience with programming languages like C, C++, or Python. A comprehensive benefits package is offered, alongside a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(K) & DCPP with company matching

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Paid sick leave and vacation time

Qualifications

• Proven track record in software development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and documentation skills.
• Experience with software testing methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop embedded software on a next generation optical network platform.
• Participate in all stages of software development.
• Investigate and troubleshoot software and performance issues.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Object-oriented design

Debugging skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer/electrical/software engineering or computer science

Tools

Linux development environment

Git

Jira

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.

How You Will Contribute:

As a Software Engineer, you will contribute to the development of industry-leading photonics software for the RLS platform, pushing boundaries in optical innovation.

• You will design and develop embedded software on a next generation optical network platform
• You will participate in all stages of software development - requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, and eventually maintenance support.
• You will actively take part in test driven development, automated unit testing, and comprehensive integration testing
• You will investigate and troubleshoot software and performance issues, working in collaboration with hardware, software, verification and system engineering teams
• You will influence the software architecture, to improve resiliency, debuggability and maintainability, and performance
• You will be accountable for managing individual project priorities, assignments, and timelines
• You will provide help to quality assurance and customer support teams with questions and problems reported by testers and by customers

This role is based in Ottawa.

The Must Haves:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer/electrical/software engineering, computer science, or a related field coupled with a proven track record in software development
• Demonstrated ability to develop software with one or more of the following programming languages: C, C++, or Python
• Familiarity with object-oriented design concepts, mutual exclusion, threading, synchronization, inter-process communication, etc.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and documentation skills
• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, team player, problem solver and ability to multi-task
• Excellent organizational skills to manage time, resources, and priorities
• Fast learner with excellent debugging skills
• Knowledge of software testing methodologies
• Familiarity with Linux development environment – GDB, Insight
• Experience with design and development tools such as Git, Jira

Assets:

• Proven experience developing embedded software on multi-processor, highly concurrent systems
• Knowledge of control theory, signal processing, or optical networking
• Experience with automated test frameworks with as Google Test and Jenkins
• Knowledge of Yang modeling language and toolchains

The annual pay range for this position is $65,500-104,600.

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.

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.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard.