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.

The Opportunity

4-month placement starting September 2026 How you will make an impact: The Optical Networks R&D organization is responsible for the development of world leading photonic hardware, photonic software and photonic system architecture. Within this organization the Link Engineering team is responsible for development of tools that predict optical system performance and determine optimal equipment provisioning for a diverse set of future and deployed optical networks. Networks range from transoceanic subsea cables, through national scale long network to metro and data center interconnects.

The successful candidate will

Develop software tools to assist in the design of Optical Network with goal of maximizing data transmission capacity. The key purpose of the tool set is to optimize system to maximize the number Terabits per second over that can be transported the specified distance, for example from New York to London, Los Angeles to Tokyo. This work contributes to Ciena becoming the supplier of next generation optical transmission equipment used in inter-continental communication networks.

The Must Haves

Enrolled in a Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or Physics program Strong Python programming skills Strong SQL skills Understanding of Data Modelling concepts: Star Schema, Snowflake Schema etc.

Understanding of Containerization concepts

Nice to Haves: Completion of a Communication Theory course Pay Range: The hourly pay range for this position is $25 to $34. 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.