Optical Engineer Co-Op

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.

12-16 month internship/co-op beginning May 2026

Ciena Canada ULC is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Optical Engineer Co-Op for a 12-16 month term. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the cutting-edge field of optical networking, contributing to the design, development, and testing of advanced optical systems and components.

As an Optical Engineer Co-Op, you will be involved in various aspects of optical engineering, including but not limited to:

• Pushing the boundaries of automation, speed, data processing and data visualization of an optical modeler using Python, and/or MATLAB.
• Playing a role in developing, improving, testing, and maintaining, various aspects of the optical modeler such as: creating databases, developing automated test cases, fixing bugs and improving existing functionality.
• Using the optical network simulator to study the performance of various optical network configurations.
• Code-collaborate with a multi-functional team of designers and perform version control using Git.

• Working towards completion of a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Physics, Electrical/Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or other similar languages, with experience databases and in libraries such as PyTorch (or similar).
• Exposure to Linux development environments.
• Foundational knowledge of physics, optics, and communications theory.
• Experience with development tools such as content versioning (e.g. Git) and bug tracking software (e.g. Jira).
• Interest in big data science and its applications.

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.

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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 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.