Senior Fiber Coupling Engineer

Ciena Corporation; Piscataway Township (NJ); On-site; USD 133,000 - 213,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

DCPP matching

Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Paid sick leave

Vacation time

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

Ciena Corporation in New Providence, NJ is seeking an experienced Micro-Optics Engineer to lead design and modeling of optical assemblies and to bridge between R&D and manufacturing.

You will develop Zemax-based simulations, create C# automation tools, perform DOE experiments, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure DFx alignment.

The role emphasizes hands-on prototyping, high-volume manufacturing readiness, and leadership on complex photonics development projects.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in micro-optics or optical engineering.
• Expert Zemax proficiency for simulations.
• Hands-on micro-optic and fiber-optic design and prototyping.
• C# programming for automation and control.
• Knowledge of optical transceiver tech used in data centers.
• DOE experience in laboratory settings.
• Ability to lead complex development projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead micro-optic design and modeling initiatives for high-volume manufacture.
• Develop and optimize micro-optic assemblies connecting fibers to silicon photonics.
• Design and analyze micro-optic components using Zemax simulations.
• Create C#-based automation tools for instrument control and data acquisition.
• Conduct in-lab DOE activities to validate optical designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align with DFx principles.
• Take a lead engineering role in development projects.

Skills

Zemax optics

Micro-optics design

Fiber-optic design

C# programming

DOE in lab

Lead engineer

Tools

Zemax

Ansys Lumerical

SolidWorks

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.

This role is intended to be on-site in New Providence, NJ 4-5 days/week. Ciena's xPO Micro-Optics Team is driving the future of high-speed connectivity by developing advanced micro-optic solutions that directly enable scalable, high-performance optical interconnects. This role offers the opportunity to lead innovative design, modeling, and hands-on development efforts that translate directly into Ciena products, shaping next-generation optical technologies.

How you will make an impact:

• Lead micro-optic design and modeling initiatives that support high-volume manufacturing requirements.
• Develop and optimize micro-optic assemblies that connect optical fibers to silicon photonic integrated circuits.
• Design, model, and analyze micro-optic components using the Zemax optics simulator.
• Create C#-based automation tools for instrument control, assembly processes, and data acquisition.
• Conduct in-lab design-of-experiment (DOE) activities to validate and refine optical designs.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align development with Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles.
• Drive technical decision-making as a lead engineer on development projects.

The must haves:

• 5+ years of industry experience in micro-optics, optical engineering, or a related field.
• Expert-level proficiency with Zemax optics simulation software.
• Hands-on experience in micro-optic and fiber-optic design, assembly, and prototyping.
• C# programming skills for automation and instrument control.
• Knowledge of optical transceiver technology used in data centers.
• Extensive in-the-lab DOE and hardware development experience.
• Ability to perform as a lead engineer in complex development projects.

Nice to haves:

• Experience with physical-optics simulation using Ansys Lumerical.
• Mechanical design experience using SolidWorks or equivalent tools.
• Familiarity with silicon photonics packaging methods.
• Understanding of high-volume manufacturing workflows for optical assemblies.
• Knowledge of emerging optical interconnect technologies.
• Experience collaborating with semiconductor or photonics manufacturing partners.
• Background in optical system-level integration.

Pay Range:

The annual salary range for this position is $133,100 - $212,500 USD. 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.

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. If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.