Software Platform Test Engineer Co-op - Winter 2026

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

Job summary

A leading technology company in Ottawa is seeking a Co-op student for a 4-month term starting January 2026. The role involves developing automated tests using Python, collaborating with teams, and working in lab settings. Ideal candidates are pursuing a degree in Computer Science or related fields and have foundational knowledge of scripting languages. Competitive pay and perks are offered.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Company-paid holidays

Paid sick leave

Vacation pay

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a relevant bachelor’s degree.
• Foundational knowledge of Python or other scripting languages.
• Comfort working with hardware in lab settings.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automated tests using Python.
• Build applications to evaluate product-agnostic platforms.
• Collaborate with designers and developers to ensure product quality.

Skills

Python

Scripting languages (Perl, Bash)

Collaboration

Lab environment familiarity

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science or a related field

Tools

TestRail

OpenSearch

Linux-based workstations

Bitbucket

GitHub

Jenkins

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

Co-op Work Term: 4 months beginning January 2026

How You Will Contribute

• Develop and maintain a suite of automated tests using Python to support design teams in delivering market-ready product solutions.
• Build applications and automation solutions to evaluate the capabilities of a product-agnostic common platform.
• Configure and connect nodes and test sets in the lab environment.
• Maintain and enhance dashboards using visualization tools such as TestRail and OpenSearch.
• Collaborate with hardware designers, software developers, and systems architects to ensure product quality and performance.

The Must Haves

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
• Foundational knowledge of Python or other scripting languages like Perl or Bash.
• Comfort working with hardware in lab settings and eagerness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Nice to Haves

• Familiarity with Python-based test frameworks.
• Experience working with Linux-based workstations.
• Knowledge of Bitbucket, GitHub, and code-commit processes.
• Exposure to Jenkins or similar automation tools.

Pay Range: The 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.

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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.

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