Ciena is committed to our people-first philosophy. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a personalized and flexible work environment that empowers an individual’s passions, growth, wellbeing 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: 8-month co-op term: September 2025 - April 2026 For over a decade, Ciena’s WaveLogic solutions have been redefining optical networking to continually reset the bar on scalability, flexibility, and programmability—crucial components needed in building the Adaptive Network. Ciena's WaveLogic coherent optics are deployed across our optical and packet networking products to power 100G-800G scalable, programmable solutions. The Ciena NPI team is responsible for the development of the test and manufacturing solutions for the WaveLogic products. The team works in an invigorating and exciting environment to realize and enable the test, calibration, and production of the highly successful optical components, PCBs and modules. The co-op student will assist in the development of test hardware, software, and sequences for new WL6e and WL6n modem products developed by the Ciena Wavelogic Coherent Optical solutions R&D teams. The student will gain hands on experience and lab work to design and debug hardware, and also to implement the software solutions in the automated test environment. A view of the development process will also help the student gain appreciation and understanding of the details needed to bring a concept from initial prototypes to production. Below are some of the activities which the student will be involved in: Design: Implement software sequences and algorithms for testing electrical PCBs Execute test sequences on initial prototypes to understand correct operation of prototypes Aid in the design and development of test hardware solutions, including helping in PCB design Work with the Ciena R&D community to understand design requirements, specifications and test parameters Document test procedures for internal and external use Analysis: Use internal Data and Analytics tools to understand test parameters and test limits Provide feedback regarding circuit operation and target specifications Make automated test adjustments based on all analysis The Must Haves: Software Skills: Coding in C#, C, Python and Matlab Understanding of Linux and Linux tool development Scripting with various command-line interpreters (Linux and Windows based) Hardware Skills: Reading and understanding schematics Understanding and implementing data protocols such as I2C, SPI, MDIO, 1-wire and SGMII. Detailed understanding of analog and digital circuits Probing and debugging PCBs in the lab Understanding of lab equipment (DMMs, SMUs, Oscilloscopes, Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers) In-circuit device programming using C2 interface, PMBUS, UART, etc. General skills: Strong communication skills Engage in detailed problem solving Strength in explaining test solutions and instructions Lab and office work Pay Range: The hourly pay range for this position is $24.50 - $33.00 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. Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community to get relevant job alerts straight to your inbox. 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. Join our Talent Community and get early job alerts, personalized career tips, and insider insights. Discover how Ciena's unique blend of deep humanity and relentless innovation creates an exceptional workplace culture. Explore CienaLife.
