Waveserver Software Developer 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 Waveserver Software Developer Co-op to contribute to innovative optical network solutions. This role involves crafting and improving software within a dynamic team environment. Candidates should be pursuing a degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering or a related field, and have skills in C, C++, or Python. The position offers competitive pay and various employee benefits.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Company-paid holidays

Paid sick leave

Vacation pay

Qualifications

• Working towards a degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to develop with C, C++, or Python.
• Experience with Linux-based developer tools and debugging environments.

Responsibilities

• Crafting, developing, testing, deploying, maintaining, and improving software.
• Managing individual project priorities, assignments, and timelines.
• Participating in the full software development lifecycle.

Skills

C programming

C++ programming

Python programming

Linux-based developer tools

Software development lifecycle

Git

JIRA

Docker

CI frameworks

Education

Degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Git

JIRA

Docker

Kubernetes

GNU/GCC/GDB

Jenkins

Grafana

Kubernetes

Job description

Overview

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

As a Waveserver Software Developer Co-op in a dynamic team environment, you will push the boundaries of what is possible in optical network solutions. You will contribute to projects that play critical roles in our network solutions and help build upon our innovative technology. You will also challenge yourself and others by bringing fresh ideas to new challenges and leading by example.

• You will play a key role in crafting, developing, testing, deploying, maintaining, and improving software.
• You will be accountable for managing individual project priorities, assignments, and timelines.
• You will participate in the full software development lifecycle, collaborating with multi-functional teams of developers, UX designers, quality assurance teams & release managers.

The Must Haves

• Working towards a degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science or a related field coupled with a proven track record in software development.
• Demonstrated ability to develop with one or more of the following programming languages - C, C++ or Python.
• Experience working with Linux-based developer tools and debugging environment such as GNU, GCC, GDB, Insight.
• Knowledge of development tools such as Git, JIRA, Yocto, Docker, Bitbucket.
• Familiarity with CI frameworks such as Jenkins, Grafana, Kubernetes.

Assets

• A passion for or experience developing software embedded solutions engineered for performance and reliability on multi-processor, highly concurrent systems.

The pay range for this position is $25.00-32.00

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 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.