PON Software Engineer, Hybrid - Ottawa

About

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.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop software for Ciena’s next generation Data Center Out‑of‑band Management (DCOM) solutions built on Passive Optical Networking (PON) technology targeting AI hyperscalers and neoscalers.
• Enhance Ciena’s DCOM PON management and control software running on embedded Linux platforms.
• Develop the next generation of Routing and Switching software solutions supporting 10 Gbps PON network technologies and applications for Layer 2/3 data networking on a wide range of switch and host platforms.
• Contribute new features to Ciena’s SAOS embedded PON software and platforms, enabling new customers and markets, and accelerating time to market for Ciena’s Data Center PON products.
• Design, implement and test C/C++ and Python software for managing PON network devices.
• Collaborate across all stages of the software development lifecycle, including requirements analysis, functional specification, design, coding, integration, verification, and support.
• Design and develop software for real‑time embedded Linux environments.

Requirements (The Must Haves)

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or foreign equivalent with 7+ years of experience in a software development role, preferably in a data networking or telecommunications environment.
• Proficiency in C/C++, Python, Object Oriented Design, embedded software, and software engineering principles.
• Solid understanding of the Linux operating system, including tools, scripting, system calls, socket programming, databases, and software development in a Linux environment.
• Use of tools and infrastructure such as GIT, Bitbucket, JIRA, Docker buildx, and Yocto.
• Demonstrable experience working with remote teams distributed across the globe.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications (Assets)

• Design experience in the following areas: Ethernet, VLAN, QoS, IPv4, IPv6, and L2/L3 access network switching and routing.
• Broadband technologies including PON (FTTx), OLT and ONT/ONU.
• Network management, NETCONF/YANG, gRPC/gNMI, Telemetry, REST.
• Docker, SDN, NFV, disaggregated network solutions.
• Database applications, preferably MongoDB or JSON‑like database.
• Experience with secure networking technologies, SSH, TLS, X.509 certificates.
• Familiarity with Web development frameworks such as Angular and Django, user interface design, and Reactive Web Design.

Compensation (Pay Range)

• The salary range for this position, in Canada, is $99,200.00 – $158,400.00 CAD.
• 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.
• The pay range information provided 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.

Benefits

• 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.
• Compliance with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

Equal Opportunity

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.

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