Sr. Software Engineer

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 102,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

A global technology leader in Ottawa seeks a Software Developer with expertise in C/C++ programming for virtualized systems. You will design and implement data plane software, manage project activities, and collaborate with engineering teams. Ideal candidates have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Engineering and 5–10 years of experience with L2/L3 technologies and multi-threaded programming in Linux. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

401(K) participation

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Paid family leave

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of experience in software development.
• Experience in a data networking environment is preferred.
• Strong understanding of IP/MPLS technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement data plane software in C for virtualized systems.
• Manage project activities and deliver detailed specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to accelerate product delivery.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Linux-like operating systems

Multi-threaded programming

Data plane architecture

L2/L3 forwarding technologies

Docker

gRPC

Telemetry

Netconf/Yang

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering

Tools

Docker

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.

About Us

At Ciena, we believe in the transformative power of people. As a network strategy and technology company, we are committed to making a difference in lives—enhancing productivity, creativity, health, and comfort. Our engineers design and implement technologies that empower people to achieve great things.

Innovation is at the heart of what we do, driven by our culture and exceptional talent. We celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the free exchange of ideas across the globe. At Ciena, innovation thrives in an environment where collaboration and creativity are encouraged. Join us and experience professional and personal satisfaction while contributing to groundbreaking outcomes.

• Design and implement data plane software in C for virtualized distributed systems built on microservices-based architectures, including provisioning and managing forwarding plane resources for IP/MPLS, L3VPN, EVPN, and L2 Ethernet applications.
• Manage project activities, including effort estimation, tracking, and status reporting for individual or small team contributions.
• Participate in all phases of the product development cycle, including product definition, design, planning, implementation, and testing.
• Review product requirements and customer use cases to prototype and evaluate solutions on target hardware and virtual platforms.
• Deliver detailed functional specifications and technical design documents for embedded software architectures and components.
• Support developed features through product verification and customer introduction, providing training to field support personnel.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including control plane and forwarding plane engineers, Product Line Management, Agile Scrum Masters, and System Integration/Test teams to accelerate time-to-market for routing solutions.

The Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
• 5–10 years of experience in software development, preferably in a data networking environment.
• Proficiency in multi-threaded C/C++ programming in Linux-like operating systems.
• Proven experience in feature specification, design, and implementation of data plane architecture for commercial networking products.
• Strong understanding of L2/L3 forwarding plane technologies, including switching/routing, protection schemes, Ethernet OAM, and IP/MPLS.
• Familiarity with Docker, gRPC, Telemetry, and Netconf/Yang.

Nice to Haves

• Experience working on microservices software architecture employing Docker containers and virtualization technologies.
• Knowledge of Software Defined Networking (SDN), routing, VPN technologies, and SRv6.
• Exposure to Agile methodologies and tools for project management.
• Ability to prototype and evaluate alternative solutions on virtual platforms.
• Hands-on experience with disaggregated solutions for global service providers.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with stakeholders across teams and locations.
• Experience contributing to network operating systems like Ciena’s SAOS.

Pay Range

The pay range for this role is competitive and aligned with industry standards. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and expertise.

The salary range is: $102,800.00 - $164,200.00 CAD

#LI-JD

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 anEqual 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.