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

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

Job summary

Ciena is seeking a Software Engineer and Tools Developer Co-op for Fall 2025. This role involves developing AI tools, real-time software for telecommunications, and collaborating with senior designers. The position offers a flexible work environment and a competitive hourly pay range of $24.50 - $33.00.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Paid sick leave

Vacation pay as per law

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with C, C++ programming.
• Scripting experience in Python, Go, BASH.

Responsibilities

• Develop AI tools (ML, Kubernetes) and applications.
• Develop embedded, real-time software for telecommunications systems.
• Support testing activities during releases.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Scripting

Education

Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Kubernetes

Linux

Job description

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

Join to apply for the Software Engineer and Tools Developer Co-op (Fall 2025) role at Ciena.

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

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

Join our next-generation AI/ML/DL packet team delivering 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) and applications to extend system/platform capabilities
• Develop embedded, real-time software for telecommunications systems
• Code and test software
• Support testing activities during releases

General Activities

• Work closely with Senior Designers and architects for mentoring and coaching
• Collaborate with design and test support teams
• Problem solving and analysis
• Contribute to team efforts
• Innovate
• Communicate effectively
• Scripting and embedded C programming

Required Skills

• Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field

Skills That Are an Asset

• TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, Jupyter, React.js, REST APIs, Kubernetes
• C, C++ programming experience
• Scripting experience in Python, Go, BASH
• Familiarity with Ethernet, TCP/IP, MPLS, DWDM concepts
• Low-level real-time software/firmware development
• Linux and related development tools (Git, Eclipse, JIRA, Confluence, GDB, Yocto)
• YANG modeling language and toolchains
• Automation and testing experience

Pay Range

The hourly pay range is $24.50 - $33.00, reflecting experience, skills, and location.

Additional Benefits

Includes Employee Assistance Program (EAP), holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation pay as per law.

Application Information

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