Wavelogic Embedded Software Development Co-op (Fall 2026 - 4 months)

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.

What will you do at Ciena?

The WaveLogic Software Development team is looking for a candidate interested in the development and sustaining of the Wavelogic Test Platform in support of the platforms that support convergence of the WaveLogic Photonics, OTN and Ethernet packet layers of the global network.

Responsibilities

· As a member of a larger team, the candidate will participate in the software development life cycle, from development through delivery to the end customers.

· Candidate will support the implementation of cross-platform software and services. This software may span multi-core embedded CPUs, SOCs, 10/100/1000BT Ethernet PHYs, FPGAs, and optics.

· Employ your expertise in the Linux Kernel, the TCP/IP stack, Forwarding Tables, IP Filters, VLANs, and memory management.

· Design, code and support drivers, diagnostics and/or applications written in C/C++ and Python.

· Debug system defects, throughput and performance.

General Activities

· Porting of common operating system elements from and to other product families within Ciena.

· Supporting other designers to troubleshoot hardware, software and system defects and performance issues.

· Learning and debugging software and system defects and performance issues.

· Documentation and production of the artifacts of the software development process.

· Participate in defect resolution and backlog defect reduction.

· Develop scripts, test utilities, and other development aids to improve designer efficiency.

Collaboration with stakeholders

· Consult with engineers, architects, and other professional and technical personnel.

· Work with product verification and test teams to resolve problems

· Interaction with colleagues on large scale software releases

Experience

· Enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science or equivalent

· Embedded C, C++ programming language

· Exposure to device driver development (Linux or Zephyr)

· Familiarity with Yocto containers, Docker and other tools

· Interest and aptitude for software development

· Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn

One or more skills in the following areas would be an asset:

· Real time operating systems concepts

· Exposure to software development tools such as Agile or Waterfall

· Familiarity with optical concepts such as DWDM, OTN, Ethernet, OSI Model, PMs

Pay Range: The hourly 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.

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.

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