Optical Performance Lab Verification and Testing Co-op

Location: Ottawa

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

The Opportunity: 8-month work term, starting in January 2027.

Ciena develops world-leading optical technology that helps carry information across the networks connecting people, businesses, and communities. The Optical Performance team develops and validates photonic hardware and system technologies that enable reliable, high-capacity optical communications. This co-op role provides hands-on experience with optical communications testing, laboratory instrumentation, test automation, and analysis of complex optical systems.

How you will make an impact

Configure, maintain, and improve optical communications lab testbeds, including optical hardware and instruments such as optical spectrum analyzers and oscilloscopes.

Develop and refine automated test workflows using tools such as MATLAB, Python, and instrument or REST APIs to improve repeatability, efficiency, and measurement capture.

Execute verification tests, collect system data, and assess optical performance under various test conditions.

The must haves

Education: Actively enrolled in an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering, physics, computer engineering, or a related discipline,

Some understanding of scientific measurement or data analysis, and an interest in learning optical communications and laboratory testing.

Experience using MATLAB for technical computing, scripting, or data analysis.

Analytical problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and attention-to-detail skills.

Ability to work patiently and carefully with delicate optical equipment in a commercial lab, including handling fragile assembled modules, assembling complex test systems, routing optical fiber, and methodically validating functionality.

Nice to haves

Hands-on experience with laboratory instruments or test automation, such as optical spectrum analyzers or oscilloscopes.

Experience coding in Python.

Experience with Linux.

Familiarity with Git or other version control tools, or with REST APIs.

Experience with using AI, GitHub Copilot, and designing and implementing AI agents and workflows.

Pay range

The hourly pay range for this position is: $25.50 - 35.00 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. 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.