Hardware (PCBA) Design and Verification Intern (Winter 2027 - 4 Months)

Job summary

The intern will contribute to the design, validation, and debugging of advanced switching circuit packs. Responsibilities include performing board programming, managing prototype inventory, and conducting design verification tests.

Job details

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: 4 month work term, starting January 2027 This co-op opportunity within Ciena’s hardware development organization contributes to the design and validation of advanced switching products that enable high-speed connectivity. The role offers hands-on involvement in complex circuit pack development alongside experienced engineers, supporting technical growth. The work advances Ciena’s focus on innovation, quality, and customer-driven engineering. How you will make an impact: Design and validate hardware for next-generation switching circuit packs. Execute hardware test and debug activities on new and existing printed circuit boards. Perform board programming and manage prototype inventory activities. Conduct design verification to evaluate functionality, performance, operating margins, and robustness. Measure and analyze signal integrity, thermal performance, and component qualification results. Develop and maintain design documentation, including design specifications and test plans or reports. Apply Cadence CAD tools to schematic capture, layout review, and design analysis tasks. The must haves: Education: Actively enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and collaborate within a team environment. Nice to haves: Exposure to laboratory test equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and test sets. Background in high-speed signaling, transmission lines, and digital or analog circuit design. Application of hardware design and debug techniques. Use of PCB schematic capture and layout tools. 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.

What you’ll do

The intern will contribute to the design, validation, and debugging of advanced switching circuit packs. Responsibilities include performing board programming, managing prototype inventory, and conducting design verification tests.

Requirements

Candidates must be actively enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in Electrical Engineering. Strong communication and collaboration skills are required, with preference given to those with experience in laboratory test equipment and high-speed signaling.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program
• Company-paid holidays
• Paid sick leave
• Vacation pay

Listed skills

• Hardware Validation · Preferred
• PCB Design · Preferred
• Hardware Design · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Hardware design
• Circuit pack development
• Hardware validation
• PCB design
• Signal integrity
• Thermal performance
• Schematic capture
• Layout review
• Oscilloscopes
• Logic analyzers
• Debugging
• Cadence CAD tools
• Electrical engineering
• Component qualification

Job areas

• Engineering
• Technology

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