Global leader in high-speed connectivity focused on IP/Optical convergence and network performance optimization

Ciena, the global leader in high-speed connectivity, is seeking a Senior Dataplane Software Engineer to join their Routing and Switching product group. This role is based in Ottawa and focuses on designing and developing embedded carrier-grade software for their cutting-edge networking solutions.

The position sits within Ciena's Coherent Routing division, which is pioneering IP/Optical convergence to optimize network performance through multi-layer operations, dynamic scalability, and improved network sustainability. The team takes a holistic approach, combining purpose-built routing, leading coherent optics, and intelligent, flexible photonics.

As a Dataplane Software Engineer, you'll be deeply involved in all aspects of the software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis to support. The role requires expertise in C/C++ programming, working with embedded Linux systems, and developing software for advanced Layer 2, MPLS and IP services. You'll be working with hardware-based forwarding engines (ASICs, NPUs, FPGAs) and implementing critical networking features including IPv4/IPv6, E-VPN, and IP-VPN.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years of embedded software development experience in networking/telecommunications, with a strong foundation in C programming and real-time systems. Experience with Broadcom DNX/XGS packet processing chipsets is highly valued. Beyond technical skills, you should be self-motivated, innovative, and able to collaborate effectively in a multi-site, global team environment.

Ciena offers a competitive compensation package ranging from $99,200 to $158,400 CAD, along with comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision coverage, 401(k)/DCPP matching, stock purchase options, and various leave benefits. The company promotes a people-first culture focused on individual growth, well-being, and belonging, while driving meaningful social and community impact alongside business success.

This role presents an excellent opportunity for an experienced software engineer to work on cutting-edge networking technology while being part of a company that values both technical excellence and human-centered development. The position combines challenging technical work with the stability and benefits of an industry leader in telecommunications infrastructure.

Senior Dataplane Software Engineer position at Ciena focusing on routing IP and embedded software development for networking systems

Dataplane Software Engineer, Routing IP

Global leader in high-speed connectivity focused on providing carrier-grade packet networking services and optical networks

Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity, is seeking a Fabric Datapath Software Engineer to join their Waverouter software group in Ottawa. This role focuses on developing embedded carrier-grade software for optical networks that are moving towards Layer 0/1/2/3 converged infrastructures. The position requires expertise in C programming, embedded systems, and real-time software development for data plane technologies.

The ideal candidate will work on designing and implementing software for hardware abstraction layers and enabling datapath for Layer 2, MPLS, and IP applications. They will be responsible for writing software for embedded Linux/VxWorks platforms, participating in product development cycles, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges.

Ciena offers a competitive compensation package starting from $92,400 to $147,600 CAD, along with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision coverage, and 401k matching. The company promotes a culture focused on flexibility, individual growth, and well-being, making it an attractive opportunity for experienced software engineers looking to work on cutting-edge networking technology.

The role requires 5+ years of experience in embedded software development, with specific expertise in Broadcom packet processing chipsets and data plane technologies. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex technical challenges while contributing to the evolution of optical network infrastructure. The company's commitment to innovation and technical excellence makes this an ideal role for engineers passionate about embedded systems and networking technology.

Senior Fabric Datapath Software Engineer position at Ciena, focusing on embedded software development for optical networks and packet processing systems.

Fabric Datapath Software Engineer

Global leader in high-speed connectivity, providing advanced networks and technology solutions.

Ciena, the global leader in high-speed connectivity, is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to join their Routing & Switching team. This role offers an opportunity to shape the future of connectivity by designing smarter, faster, and more resilient networks for global service providers.

The position focuses on developing embedded software for the SAOS 10X platform, Ciena's custom Linux-based operating system engineered for scalability and performance. As part of the software base platform team, you'll work on critical system components, including drivers, firmware, and low-level software optimization.

Key responsibilities include developing embedded software, troubleshooting performance issues, and working with firmware and drivers on Linux platforms. You'll collaborate with Product Owners and System Architects to evolve the platform, ensuring it supports new features and technologies. The role requires expertise in performance optimization, particularly in CPU usage and memory management.

The ideal candidate brings 12+ years of networking product software development experience, with strong programming skills in C/C++, Python, and bash scripting. Deep knowledge of Linux OS, build systems, and container technologies is essential. Experience with Intel x86-64, ARM architectures, and modern development tools like Git and Jenkins is required.

Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k with company matching, ESPP, and various leave benefits. The company promotes a people-first approach with a culture focused on flexibility, individual growth, and well-being. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced embedded software engineer looking to make a significant impact in the networking industry while working with cutting-edge technology.

The position is based in Ottawa, Canada, offering the chance to work with a global team while contributing to solutions that serve worldwide customers. Ciena's commitment to continuous learning ensures opportunities for skill development through advanced technologies, training, and mentorship.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer position at Ciena, developing and maintaining SAOS 10X platform software and working with low-level system components.

Embedded Software Engineer

Global leader in high-speed connectivity solutions focusing on carrier-grade data communications services

Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity, is seeking a Lead Software Engineer specializing in Routing/Switching - Optical/optics. This role is perfect for an experienced professional who can contribute to transceiver/optics bring-up and associated features, delivering innovative solutions for carrier-grade data communications services.

The position involves working with cutting-edge technology in optical networking, handling various electrical/optical/coherent plugs ranging from 10G to 800G. You'll be responsible for implementing carrier-grade data communications services while leveraging SDN, NFV, and virtualized routing systems. The role requires deep expertise in embedded systems, particularly with optical transceivers.

As a Lead Software Engineer, you'll be joining a company that prioritizes a flexible work environment and emphasizes individual growth and well-being. Ciena's culture focuses on humanity-driven business priorities alongside meaningful social and community impact. The company offers a collaborative environment where you'll work with state-of-the-art networking technologies and contribute to innovative solutions.

The ideal candidate should have strong C programming skills, extensive experience with Linux platforms, and deep knowledge of optical networking technologies. You'll be working with various protocols and interfaces like I2C, SPI, and MDIO, and should be comfortable with both hardware and software aspects of embedded systems. This role offers an opportunity to work on complex technical challenges while contributing to the evolution of high-speed networking technology.

Join Ciena to be part of a team that's shaping the future of telecommunications infrastructure while enjoying a culture that values technical excellence, innovation, and personal growth.

Lead Software Engineer position at Ciena focusing on optical networking, transceiver development, and embedded systems programming for high-speed connectivity solutions.

Lead Software Engineer- Routing/Switching - Optical /optics

Global leader in high-speed connectivity solutions focused on telecommunications and network infrastructure.

Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity, is seeking a Senior Software Developer for their Technology Application Sales (TAS) team. This role combines technical expertise in telecommunications software with pre-sales support, requiring a unique blend of development skills and customer-facing capabilities. The position involves implementing proof of concepts, creating technical demonstrations, and working closely with solution architects and sales teams to deliver compelling solutions using Ciena's Blue Planet portfolio.

The ideal candidate will bring 5+ years of hands-on software development experience in telecommunications OSS/BSS systems, with expertise in Java, Python, and various database technologies. You'll be working with cutting-edge technologies including Neo4j, ElasticSearch, and Kafka, while applying your knowledge of telecom networks and OSS ecosystems to create practical solutions for clients.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to work at the intersection of software development and technical sales, with responsibilities ranging from hands-on coding to facilitating workshops and knowledge transfer sessions. You'll be part of a company that prioritizes a flexible work environment and emphasizes individual growth and well-being.

Ciena provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k with company matching, stock purchase options, and various leave benefits. The position offers both technical challenge and career growth potential in a rapidly evolving telecommunications industry.

The role requires occasional domestic and international travel, offering opportunities to work directly with clients and attend industry events. If you're passionate about telecommunications technology and enjoy translating technical capabilities into business solutions, this position offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a leading technology company.

Senior Software Developer role at Ciena focusing on telecommunications software development and technical sales support, requiring 5+ years of experience in OSS/BSS systems.

Specialist, Software Developer

Ciena, the global leader in high-speed connectivity, is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to join their Routing & Switching team. This role is crucial in shaping the future of connectivity by designing smarter, faster, and more resilient networks for global service providers.

The position focuses on developing embedded software for the SAOS 10X platform, Ciena's custom Linux-based operating system engineered for scalability and performance in routing and switching applications. As part of the software base platform team, you'll work with firmware and low-level software drivers, optimize system performance, and contribute to the architecture of mission-critical networking solutions.

The ideal candidate brings 12+ years of networking software development experience, with deep expertise in C/C++, Linux, and scripting languages. You'll work with cutting-edge technologies including Intel x86-64, ARM processors, and modern containerization tools like Docker. The role requires strong problem-solving abilities and excellent communication skills to collaborate with global teams.

Ciena offers a competitive compensation package ranging from $118,000 to $188,400 CAD, along with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision coverage, 401(k) matching, and stock purchase options. The company promotes a people-first culture focused on individual growth, well-being, and belonging, while driving meaningful social and community impact.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced embedded software engineer looking to work on advanced networking technologies while being part of a company that values innovation, continuous learning, and professional development. The position is based in Ottawa, where you'll join a diverse and collaborative team working on solutions that power the world's most advanced networks.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer position at Ciena developing SAOS 10X platform and low-level software for networking products.

Ciena Engineering Jobs

Global leader in high-speed connectivity focused on IP/Optical convergence and network performance optimization