Quality Assurance Routing & Switching Intern (Winter 2027)

Job summary

The intern will contribute to software validation for IP switching platforms by executing test suites and developing automation scripts in Python. They will also collaborate with engineers to establish lab topologies and document software defects.

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: Work term of 4 or 8 months starting in January 2027. Join the Ottawa Quality Assurance team and contribute to software validation for IP switching platforms. This opportunity provides hands-on exposure to manual and automated testing while building knowledge of networking and virtualization technologies. The role contributes to software quality through test execution, automation development, and lab-based learning. How you will make an impact: Collaborate with engineers to establish new lab topologies and expand understanding of integrated end-to-end IP systems. Enhance existing automation scripts written in Python. Develop new automation scripts in Python. Execute test suites for software validation. Identify software defects and document bugs. Retest software following defect resolution. Build knowledge of the software development lifecycle and quality assurance processes. The must haves: Education: Actively enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in SW or Electrical Engineering or equivalent, Foundational knowledge of electrical circuits and/or sw development concepts. Demonstrated proficiency with Python. Demonstrated willingness to learn. Nice to haves: Experience in/with Telecom and/or IP networks. AI & ML. MS Office products such as Excel and PowerPoint. Excellent communication skills. Pay Range The hourly pay range for this position is $25.50 to $35.00 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. 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 software validation for IP switching platforms by executing test suites and developing automation scripts in Python. They will also collaborate with engineers to establish lab topologies and document software defects.

Requirements

Candidates must be actively enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in Software or Electrical Engineering. Proficiency in Python and foundational knowledge of electrical circuits or software development concepts are required.

Benefits

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

Listed skills

• Microsoft Excel · Preferred
• Communication · Preferred
• Python · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Python
• Software validation
• IP switching
• Networking
• Virtualization
• Test automation
• Manual testing
• Electrical circuits
• Software development
• Telecom
• IP networks
• AI
• ML
• Excel
• PowerPoint
• Communication
• Software Validation
• Willingness To Learn
• Collaborate with Engineers
• Microsoft Excel
• Artificial Intelligence
• Electrical Engineering
• Automation
• Test Automation
• Telecommunications
• Electrical Networks
• Software Development Life Cycle
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Internet Protocols Suite
• Innovation
• Python (Programming Language)
• Machine Learning
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Quality Assurance
• Software Quality (SQA/SQC)
• Test Execution Engine
• Topology
• Defect Management

Job areas

• Technology
• Software
• Engineering
• Quality Assurance Intern
• Software QA Analyst
• Software and Applications Developers and Analysts Not Elsewhere Classified
• Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers